In the Royal Palace of Triesenberg. March 25th, 1939.
The ornate chambers of the Imperial Palace in Triesenberg were filled with the warm glow of a crackling fire. The grand windows overlooking the snow-covered gardens were framed by heavy, velvet drapes, shielding the occupants from the harsh winter winds outside. The rich scent of aged wood and burning logs filled the air, creating a cocoon of warmth and comfort that stood in stark contrast to the turbulent world beyond the palace walls.
Seated in one of the high-backed leather chairs near the fire was Emperor Edward Triesenberg. His piercing blue eyes were fixed on the young man standing before him—his son, Prince Theodore.
"Father," Theodore began, "it appears that the Valorian Navy is gaining the upper hand against Ruthenia. The latest reports indicate that they have sunk several of Ruthenia's major warships, forcing them into a tactical retreat."
