Teuila nodded in agreement as Archer rose from his seat and unfurled the Gate to the Bastion. The trio entered the portal and emerged into the fortress's great hall. Despite its modest decorations, the hall exuded an inviting charm, a testament to its builder's and designer's meticulous craftsmanship.
Pillars lined the edges of the hall, leading the eye toward a throne positioned at its end. White banners adorned the walls, fluttering gently in the air. Archer took in the scene with a sense of satisfaction.
They were welcomed by Aisha, Jethro, and Mohamet, along with Arianna Stormborn, the leader of Draconia's Homeguard Battalion, and Elara Riversong, the Dragon Marshal of the First Legion.
When they saw him, everyone knelt respectfully, but Archer signaled for them to stand up. His anger was barely hidden while ordering Arianna, "Gather the rest of the Valethornians together and take them to Drakonia. They need to know what will happen if they rebel again."