General Marcus Draven, who had been silent until now, spoke up, his tone cautious. "That won't be possible. I've received reports that Galdor forces are already starting to gather. They tried to stay discreet, but now that they know we've discovered their intentions, they'll move everything to protect that site. Our forces are scattered, it will take at least eight days to assemble them all. By then, Galdor will be fully fortified, and a direct confrontation would be suicide."
He paused, his expression darkening. "And there's something else. I personally believe King Vlanox R. Glador himself might make a move. His specialty in barrier magic will make it nearly impossible to break through. We'll be sitting ducks."
The room fell silent as Lord Arlyn and Duke Samuel absorbed the gravity of the situation. Time was slowly draining out like the sand in the hourglass, and every moment they delayed allowed Galdor to strengthen their hold on Ashvathaa.
"We need to think outside the box," Lord Arlyn finally said, his voice steady. "Our armies may take time to assemble, but mages can move faster. If we can coordinate an all-out attack by the mages of Alanor, Pita, and Reaal, we might stand a chance."
Samuel's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "An alliance of three kingdoms... It's risky, but it could work. We'll need to share the spoils, though. Are we prepared for that?"
Lord Arlyn nodded. "If it means securing Ashvathaa, then yes. The knowledge and power hidden there are worth the price."
General Draven sighed, rubbing his temples. "It's a dangerous gamble. But it might be our only option."
The decision was made, with the plan finalized, Duke Samuel rose from his seat, his demeanor calm but resolute. "I'll convey this information and the action plan to the king," he said, his voice firm.
Lord Arlyn and General Draven nodded in agreement, understanding the importance of what lay ahead. Samuel gave a gentle nod and then, with a few murmured words, he disappeared in a flash of light, teleporting himself out of the room.
Duke Samuel arrived at the grand palace of Alanor, his appearance startling the guards stationed at the entrance. The grandeur of the palace, with its towering spires and ornate stonework, was a testament to the kingdom's legacy. Samuel made his way swiftly through the corridors, his urgency reflected in every step.
Upon reaching the audience chamber, Samuel was met by a herald. "Duke Samuel, I will announce you to His Majesty," the herald said, his voice carrying the formality of the court.
"Be quick," Samuel replied, showing his impatience.
After a brief wait, the herald returned and granted Samuel entry. The room was large and decorated with the symbols of Alanor's royal lineage. King Thorian Alanor Everlight sat on his throne, his presence commanding respect.
King Thorian Alanor Everlight was a striking figure in the midst of the richly decorated chamber. At just over thirty, his presence commanded respect and attention. His features were a refined blend of youth and maturity, with sharp blue eyes that seemed to reflect both wisdom and resolve. His dark hair, neatly combed back, was showing hints of silver, adding a distinguished touch to his regal appearance. Dressed in a deep blue tunic adorned with gold embroidery and a silver-lined cloak, he looked every bit the formidable ruler.
King Thorian's gaze fell on Samuel as the duke entered, and he greeted him with a nod of recognition. The two men, despite their familial bond, had always maintained a respectful distance in their professional interactions.
Samuel approached with a deep bow. "Your Majesty, I come with urgent news and a request for your counsel."
King Thorian gestured for Samuel to rise and take a seat across from him. "Speak, Samuel. What did you discover?"
Duke Samuel took a seat and leaned forward slightly, his expression serious. "Your Majesty, our recent mission revealed the existence of an ancient city called Ashvathaa, buried beneath the Galdorian excavation site. This might be the city of sage spoken in the legends. The Galdorians are intensifying their efforts, and we face a critical decision."
King Thorian leaned forward, his interest piqued. "What do you propose?"
Samuel took a deep breath and laid out the plan. "Given the urgency and the formidable defenses we face, we need to think strategically. Our armies will take time to assemble, and a direct confrontation would be disastrous. Instead, I propose an alliance of the three kingdoms: Alanor, Pita, and Reaal."
King Thorian's brow furrowed. "An alliance with Pita and Reaal? How will that help us?"
Samuel nodded. "The army may require time but mages can move swiftly. If our mages join force then we will have unparalleled power. By coordinating our efforts, we could launch a magical assault that would breach the Galdorian defenses. We need to act quickly and decisively. Our combined magic might give us a chance to overcome the barriers and traps set by Galdor."
King Thorian's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "And what about the spoils? How do we handle the distribution of the knowledge and artifacts?"
Samuel responded, "If we form this alliance, we'll need to agree on a fair distribution. The knowledge within Ashvathaa is invaluable, and it's worth the cost of cooperation. We'll need to draft an agreement with Pita and Reaal to ensure everyone gets a fair share."
King Thorian rubbed his chin, contemplating. "An alliance of three kingdoms is a bold move. But, I highly doubt, they might stab us in the back. Is there no other option?"
Samuel nodded, his face resolute. "No, Your Majesty. It's a risky strategy, but it may be our only option."
King Thorian took a deep breath and looked at Samuel with a determined expression. "Then let us proceed with this plan. I trust you to make the necessary arrangements."
Samuel bowed deeply. "I will do so immediately."
As Samuel prepared to leave, King Thorian's gaze softened. "Be swift. Time is of the essence."
Samuel nodded and turned to depart, ready to put the plan into motion. The gravity of the task ahead was clear, but with the king's support, he felt a renewed sense of purpose.