***
The next day.
A servant from the north arrived carrying a message, marking the final day of reconnaissance.
Ethan stood atop the northern gate wall, arms folded behind his back, watching as a winged servant descended from the sky and entered the city.
Instead of heading toward the command post or seeking out Laura, the servant flew directly toward Ethan.
That alone told Ethan how urgent the report was.
The servant landed lightly, knelt on one knee, and extended the message with both hands. Ethan took it without a word and immediately read the contents.
"The reconnaissance has been expanded," Ethan said aloud after a moment. "They've confirmed that a large number of city soldiers in the tropical region are marching north."
Yuna turned sharply toward him. "Then Arthur really is desperate. His best option is invading the island territories instead of confronting the desert directly."
