"Commander Elandrial," a male elf with sharp features said as he dragged two captured Skardians before her. "I've cleared the eastern section. These fellows looked important so I've brought them over for interrogation."
"Well done, Thalion. But how many times do I have to tell you to call me Vaerina?"
"As long as we're on campaign I'll never call you by your given name. It would set a bad example for the troops."
"Fine," Vaerina replied as she studied the captives with her hawkish gaze. "Have you heard any reports about the Skardian princess?"
"No, if it weren't for this fog we should've captured her by now."
Vaerina's gaze lingered on the two Skardian captives, their faces a mix of defiance and weariness. One bore the scars of countless battles, while the younger one still had the fire of rebellion in his eyes, though it flickered under the weight of their defeat. She smiled thinly, but it didn't reach her eyes.
