Duke Ironclaw, a formidable and respected figure among the nobility, hailed from the Eastern Wolf Kingdom. His reputation as a guardian of the Southern Territory's borders was well-known, having once served as a fearless commander of the border guards along the Eastern frontier. His silver-gray fur bore the scars of battles long fought in defense of the Southern Territory, and his sharp, ice-blue eyes held a keen intelligence.
Duke Sebastian Ironclaw had earned his status through years of unwavering dedication to the Southern Territory and its safety. His concerns about the state of affairs in the absence of Empress Selene were deeply rooted in his sense of duty and his commitment to protecting the territory from external threats, even though he hailed from the Eastern Kingdom.
As he stood to address the assembly, his presence commanded attention, and her words carried the weight of experience. "Your Majesty, esteemed lords and ladies," he began, his voice a deep, resonant rumble, "I must raise a matter of grave concern. While we celebrate this momentous occasion, we cannot ignore the state of affairs in the Southern Territory."
Miss Cendrina's smile wavered, and Duke Roland Thorneford clenched his jaw in frustration. The interruption was unwelcome, but they maintained their composure. Miss Cendrina's resentment simmered beneath her polite smile, but she chose to restrain herself, aware that the situation required Wildan's attention.
Wildan's gaze shifted between Duke Thorneford and Duke Ironclaw, assessing the gravity of the situation. He realized that his role as emperor was not just about personal matters but also about safeguarding the well-being of his people and the stability of the Southern Territory.
Wildan, ever the composed leader, turned his attention to Duke Ironclaw, his expression neutral but attentive. "Please, Duke Ironclaw, elaborate on your concerns," he requested.
Duke Ironclaw continued, "In the absence of Empress Selene, the Southern Territory has been left leaderless. The chain of command is in disarray, and it has emboldened attackers from the Western wolf country, the Nearer Kingdom. They see an opportunity in our moment of vulnerability."
The city near the border where the attack by the Nearer Kingdom occurs can be named Ebonridge. Ebonridge is a sprawling city that stands as a vital crossroads between the Southern Territory and its neighboring regions. The city is situated on the banks of a wide, swiftly flowing river, and its architecture is a blend of traditional wolf tribe design and more contemporary elements. Tall stone buildings with graceful arches and balconies line the streets, while colorful banners and flags flutter in the wind, symbolizing unity and prosperity.
Ebonridge is known for its bustling markets, where traders from various wolf territories come to exchange goods, fostering a spirit of commerce and cultural exchange. The city's citizens are a diverse mix, representing different wolf tribes and backgrounds, reflecting the city's role as a melting pot of cultures.
The city is encircled by a sturdy stone wall with towering watchtowers that offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The Ironclaw Frontier stretches beyond the walls, a vast expanse of rugged terrain and dense forests that serve as the Southern Territory's first line of defense.
When the attack led by the Northern kingdom, the tranquility of Ebonridge is shattered, and its inhabitants find themselves facing a threat that threatens the city's safety and stability.
His words hung heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the festive atmosphere. Seraphine knew the importance of addressing this issue promptly, and she nodded for him to continue.
"The Northern Kingdom has grown brazen," Duke Ironclaw explained, his tone grave. "They have violated the peace agreement and trespassed onto our territory. We must act swiftly to announce our presence and remind them of the commitments made in the peace agreement."
With a nod, Wildan addressed the assembly, his voice firm and resolute. "We must prioritize the safety and unity of our territory," he declared. "Let us discuss the steps we need to take to address this situation, and we shall return to the matter of alliances once our homeland is secure."
As the nobility began to deliberate, the banquet hall was filled not only with the echoes of celebration but also with the weight of responsibility and duty that came with Wildan's new role as emperor.
The atmosphere in the grand hall had shifted from celebration to one of urgency as Wildan, now crowned emperor, took command. Duke Roland Ironclaw, a formidable guardian of the Southern Territory's borders, received his orders with a respectful nod.
"As you wish, Your Highness," Ironclaw declared with a determined tone.
Duke Ironclaw's ice-blue eyes held a glint of excitement, eager to fulfill his duty to protect the territory. However, as he glanced at Duke Roland, a sly grin played on his lips. He knew the interruption earlier had been a setback for Roland, his nemesis.
'Damn bastard,' Duke Roland scolded him.
When Wildan prepared to leave for his duties, Duke Roland spoke up, "Your highness, about the marriage?"
"Duke Roland Thorneford, it seems there are more pressing matters at hand," Duke Ironclaw remarked with an air of mock innocence.
"But..."
Duke Thorneford clenched his jaw, his resentment simmering beneath the surface. He muttered a few choice words under his breath, but Wildan's next words halted any further discussion about the marriage.
"Now is an emergency," Wildan interjected firmly, his voice cutting through the tension. He turned to face Duke Thorneford directly, his determined gaze unwavering.
"Do you truly feel the need to discuss our potential alliance through marriage at this moment, Duke Thorneford?"
Duke Thorneford, his ambitions momentarily set aside, quickly composed himself.
"No, Your Majesty," he replied, the bitterness in his voice thinly veiled.
"Good," Wildan said, his tone softening but resolute.
"Your focus should be on preparing for the upcoming challenges, Duke Thorneford."
With that, he left the hall, leaving Duke Thorneford alone, his resentful thoughts echoing in the grand chamber. The urgency of the situation had silenced any further talk of alliances, at least for now.