Lucien clenched his fists, realization hitting him like a cold wave. It was late, but they still had to act. His elephant familiar trumpeted softly, sensing its master's tension.
Cassandra's strategy unfolded before his eyes with brutal clarity: generate casualties and call them sacrifices. Probably, Lucien thought, she would attribute the "achievement" to the rioters and those who turned against Elio, thus forming an opposition sector to the government.
All to demonstrate that her "contribution" had helped stabilize the barrier.
"Despicable," Lucien muttered, "but functionally effective."
However, something didn't add up. Cassandra must have another card up her sleeve. If it was just about generating opposition, it would be too easy for them to ultimately resort to force and eliminate the dissident faction.
Elio's side was overwhelmingly larger and more powerful.
