The atmosphere in the meeting room was heavy with tension as all present awaited the report. Lord Garius sat at the head of the table, his piercing gaze locked on Hesbeirn, who stood at attention in the center of the room. Lady Francesca sat beside her husband, her calm face masking deep concern. Alf, the reliable butler, and Errinette, the head maid, stood to the side, flanked by elite personal guards and maids.
Hesbeirn took a deep breath and stepped forward. "My lord, there is something urgent that requires your attention."
Garius's voice was sharp but composed. "Speak."
Hesbeirn straightened, his tone steady but grim. "We've uncovered troubling news. This morning, I ordered the personal army to investigate the absence of guards who failed to report. What we found…" He hesitated, fists clenching briefly. "...were nine bodies in the forest."
