Alister, who had been silently watching, finally rose to his feet. He dusted off his robe, his golden eyes sharp as they narrowed at his generals.
"Enough," he said, his voice silencing them instantly. "I will not tolerate infighting. Alzuring, Mar'Garet, stand down. Now."
Alzuring's jaw tightened, but he bowed his head. "As you command, my lord."
Mar'Garet smirked, but a small glance from Alister wiped the smug look from her face. She sighed and bowed as well. "Of course, my lord."
Satisfied, Alister turned his attention back to the towering city on the horizon. His eyes lingered on the spires of the castle before speaking again.
"Now," he said, his tone firm, "tell me what has been happening in my absence. Twelve days is a long time, and it seems much has changed."
