The nobles in the hall exchanged glances, torn between loyalty to their current way of life and the allure of the unknown presented by Duke Graham. The magic radio played in the background, a tangible representation of the technological advancements promised by the Pinnacle Republic.
Count Andrea, previously skeptical, spoke up. "Duke Graham, this is indeed an extraordinary device, but can we trust that it's not some trick or illusion? How can we be certain that the Pinnacle Republic's intentions are genuine?"
Duke Graham nodded, understanding the skepticism. "I appreciate your caution, Count Andrea. That's why I propose a delegation. We can send representatives to the Pinnacle Republic to witness their society, their governance, and the benefits they offer firsthand. They can return and report to all of us, and then we can make an informed decision."
Count Vargus scoffed, "And how do we know those representatives won't be swayed or enchanted by the foreign ways? This is a risky gambit, Duke Graham, and it puts the safety of our lands at stake."
Duke Graham responded with conviction, "It is a risk, Count Vargus, but what alternative do we have? Our current path leads us to a war that strains our resources and threatens our stability. Joining the Pinnacle Republic offers a chance for a peaceful transition and a more prosperous future."
The hall fell silent as the nobles contemplated the choices before them. Some whispered among themselves, discussing the potential benefits and risks. The magic radio continued to broadcast cheerful tunes, creating an atmosphere of both uncertainty and intrigue.
After a prolonged pause, Count Andrea stepped forward, his voice resonating through the hall. "I believe Duke Graham's proposal deserves careful consideration. A delegation will allow us to make an informed decision. Let us not rush into war without exploring alternatives."
Several nobles nodded in agreement, signaling a willingness to at least explore the option of joining the Pinnacle Republic. Duke Graham thanked them for their openness and suggested the formation of a delegation committee to choose representatives.
"If we agree to join the Pinnacle Republic, when will we defect from the Kingdom of Verdant Glades? Isn't King Richard II already sending his troops to Ember Ridge Barony? Will we help the Pinnacle Republic or just watch them fight each other?" asked Duke Bjorn.
Duke Graham acknowledged the valid concern raised by Duke Bjorn. "A crucial aspect of our decision involves timing. We must choose the opportune moment to defect, ensuring minimal repercussions for our lands."
"As you can see, the Pinnacle Republic has the latest technology that can wipe out thousands of soldiers in an instant. It's called the Arcane Thundercaster, a magical cannon capable of devastating attacks from a distance."
Duke Bjorn looked unconvinced. He had heard rumors of the Pinnacle Republic's arcane weapons, but he had never seen them in action. He wondered if they were as powerful as Duke Graham claimed, or if they had some hidden weakness.
"You know that the Pinnacle Republic was able to turn the city wall of the Ember Ridge Barony into dust within an hour, not to mention us humans, a living being, so what we have to do right now is wait, once the Royal Faction has been defeated in the battle to retake the Ember Ridge Barony, then it's time for us to rebel against the Kingdom."
"So, we do not need to use a lot of resources and money to fight against the royal faction and force the king to make a white peace, or even let the Pinnacle Republic win the invasion in the Verdant Glades Kingdom."
Duke Bjorn was still doubtful, but he decided to keep his thoughts to himself. He knew that Duke Graham had a lot of influence among the nobles, and he did not want to antagonize him. He also knew that the Pinnacle Republic was a formidable enemy, and he did not want to face their wrath.
He agreed to join the delegation committee, along with Count Andrea, Count Vargus, and several other nobles. They would select a few representatives to visit the Pinnacle Republic and learn more about their culture, politics, and technology.
They hoped that the delegation would return with good news, and that they would be able to negotiate a favorable deal with the Pinnacle Republic. They hoped that they would be able to avoid a war that could destroy their lands and their people.
____________________
Ember Ridge Barony.
Commander Alex and Mayor Eldric strategized intensively to prepare the defense of Ember Ridge Barony against the formidable force led by General Augustus.
The city had recently experienced a siege, and the walls were undergoing rapid repairs to ensure they could withstand the impending assault, the mage used greater spells such as Earth Wall.
In a war room filled with maps and tactical diagrams, Commander Alex addressed the gathered leaders, "We know General Augustus is a Veteran commander, and his forces are not to be underestimated. Our advantage lies in the knowledge of our terrain. We must use it to our benefit."
Mayor Eldric added, "Our magical cannon, archers and mages should be strategically positioned on the walls. We need to maximize the effectiveness of ranged attacks and magical defenses. The goal is to weaken their forces before they breach our defenses."
A Veteran mercenary named Hakon spoke up, "We should make trenches and traps like spike outside the walls," Hakon suggested, gesturing with his hand. "If they try to use siege engines or ladders, we can slow them down or destroy them with fire and explosives."
Commander Alex nodded. "That's a good idea, Hakon. We'll need volunteers to dig the trenches and set the traps."
"But can we do it in one night? it seems impossible," said Mayor Eldric.
"Tomorrow General Augustus will arrive here according to Duke Graham, he brings more than 100,000 private soldiers from the nobility and he also brings the kingdom's regular soldiers."
Commander Alex considered the challenge posed by Mayor Eldric. "It's a tight timeline, but we have skilled individuals and magic at our disposal. I'll enlist the help of earth mages to expedite the trench-digging process."