Vaelith's Office
Adept Vaelith Crownhold reviewed his final preparations with cold satisfaction.
The map on his desk showed Vester divided into color-coded sectors. Red zones indicated where Covenant forces would breach—carefully selected positions that would maximize casualties among his opponents supporters while minimizing damage to critical infrastructure and Crownhold interests.
Blue zones showed reinforced defenses—areas where his own people and valuable assets would be protected when chaos erupted.
Yellow marked evacuation routes—paths that would allow key personnel to escape if situations deteriorated beyond control.
"The Academy candidates?" his aide asked.
"Secured in their quarters. The children are to remain there during the assault."
Vaelith's finger slid across the map. "Fifteen valuable assets preserved while expendable soldiers die containing threats I personally arranged. The amusing part? The Republic will commend me for safeguarding their investment."
