In the mess hall of another fort, the news had spread like wildfire among the bored defenders. Cultivators and mortal soldiers alike gathered in clusters as they ate during their breaks. Animated exchanges of what little information had reached them through 'official' channels was talked of often.
"...heard the Voidling leader tried to pull the same trick as before, aiming for a hostage when it wasn't winning. But this time it chose the wrong target!"
And the much more 'colorful' versions of events, circulating through some dubious means, were brought up just as much. Because they were filled with more personal details than military confirmation.
"Who did it target?"
"The Goltbred heiress! Qatrand er Yecine's own wife. Can you imagine?"
"Attacking the spouse… it almost sounds personal."
"Yeah, well when they'd already killed one of your kind while protecting someone? Doesn't sound smart to do right in front of them. No wonder they get beaten back every cycle!"
