The castle hummed with anticipation as Kade's commanders prepared to carry out his latest orders. Every corner was alive with purpose — soldiers sharpening weapons, messengers rushing between rooms, and the faint echo of battle drills drifting from the courtyard. Kade, however, sat slouched in his throne, watching the activity with a mix of awe and apprehension.
"Look at them, all focused and determined,"
he thought.
"Meanwhile, I'm just over here wondering how to keep from blowing myself up the next time someone attacks."
Vask approached quietly, his expression as composed as ever.
'My lord,'
he said, his voice low and steady.
'Your commanders are nearly ready to depart. Do you wish to address them before they leave?'
Kade straightened, trying to mask his discomfort with an air of authority.
'Yeah, I should... probably say something inspiring, right?'
'A few words of encouragement would be most fitting,'
