The meeting room was filled with somber faces as Edwin relayed the intelligence gathered on the Fleur Empire's sudden mobilization. The flickering candlelight cast shadows on the tense expressions of Leon's brothers and the key allies gathered. Atlas stood at the head of the table, his gaze steely and unwavering as he listened.
"The Empire has started moving troops toward the northern border," Edwin reported. "Their numbers suggest an all-out offensive. We have to assume they're coming for Atlas."
A murmur swept through the room, voices mixing with worry and urgency. Leon sat beside Atlas, his hand hidden beneath the table as it tightened around Atlas's in silent support.
"What about our allies?" Fred, Leon's eldest brother, asked. His usual commanding presence was marked with concern.
"They're sending reinforcements, but it will take time for them to arrive," Edwin responded.
Atlas took a deep breath, feeling the weight of every life that would soon be at risk. He glanced at Leon, drawing strength from the calm resolve in his eyes. "We'll need to hold them off until help arrives," Atlas said, his voice cutting through the noise like a blade. "Every strategy we've practiced must be put into action."
Fred nodded. "We'll rally the troops and double the patrols."
"I'll contact the neighboring allies for more immediate support," Edwin added, already moving to leave the room.
"Wait," Leon said, standing abruptly. The room quieted as all eyes turned to him. His usually gentle expression was hardened by determination. "I'm going with you to the front lines."
Atlas's eyes widened slightly, a flash of fear crossing his features. "Leon, it's too dangerous. Your safety—"
"My safety means nothing if the people I care about are at risk," Leon interrupted. His voice, though steady, carried an edge that left no room for argument. "I'm not just the frail younger brother anymore. I'm your Guide, Atlas, and I'm part of this fight."
A silence settled over the room, broken only when Fred stepped forward. "If Leon wants to stand with us, he has my support."
Atlas's jaw clenched, torn between his need to protect Leon and the undeniable truth that they were stronger together. Finally, he nodded, the tension in his shoulders easing only slightly. "We face this as one, then."
Leon's lips curved into a small, brave smile. The path ahead was filled with uncertainty, but as he looked at the people around him—his family, his friends, and Atlas—he knew they would fight, not just for survival, but for the future they wanted to build together.
Outside, the wind carried the distant sound of war horns, signaling that the first wave was drawing near. The battle for their freedom, their love, and their lives was about to begin.