"There comes another villain," Ethan muttered, leaning closer to the screen, his eyes narrowing with interest.
In the meeting hall, Kael swept his gaze across the room before letting it settle on Elder Raegon. The old man's brows were furrowed, his complexion slightly pale like the picture of a leader burdened by concern for his people.
But Kael saw through the mask.
He had been expecting retaliation. When it came, he didn't flinch. His expression remained composed, indifferent like a wall that refused to crack.
"Hmm… So what do you suggest?" Kael pressed, his voice calm but edged with steel. "We tuck our tails and flee?"
"We are not fleeing," Raegon countered, his tone sharp. "We are retreating—to gather enough strength and return when the odds are in our favor."
Heads around the room began to nod, a slow wave of agreement rippling through the council.
