Meanwhile, in Strongson's capital, Leon's new regime was taking shape rapidly. His reputation grew increasingly prominent. Though many nobles still harbored resentment toward him, his control over the military silenced most dissenting voices. In the midst of this political whirlwind, Leon had unknowingly become the focal point of attention for various factions.
However, whispers of Eryndor had not subsided. This enigmatic nation seemed to be orchestrating something far greater behind the scenes. Catherine and Irene realized that Strongson's future—and perhaps that of the entire western continent—could be profoundly altered by these unseen machinations.
A few days later, within the royal palace of Strongson's capital, a tense atmosphere filled the council chamber. Leon sat upon his throne, his brows furrowed, fingers tapping absentmindedly against the armrest. Standing before him was a frontline officer, a messenger who had hurriedly traveled from the eastern border. His face was pale, and his voice carried urgency.
"Your Majesty, a terrible attack has occurred at the eastern border. Several sentries and a commanding officer have been killed. Eldenia military insignias and weapons were left at the scene. This can only be the work of the Eldenia forces."
Leon's eyes narrowed slightly as he listened, his expression unreadable. As the messenger finished his report, silence descended upon the chamber. Several high-ranking nobles stood nearby, their faces reflecting various emotions. A few glanced anxiously at Leon, their unease evident.
At last, Leon broke the silence. His voice was low but carried an undeniable authority. "Eldenia dares to provoke us so brazenly."
Though he spoke with certainty, Leon's mind was already racing. He understood that this event likely went beyond a direct act of aggression by Eldenia. Upon closer reflection, he saw an opportunity to suppress internal dissent and redirect the empire's tensions outward.
"How do you plan to respond, Your Majesty?" one noble ventured cautiously.
Leon turned his gaze toward the window, his deep eyes seeming to pierce through the palace roof to the distant borderlands. After a few moments of silence, he spoke deliberately, "I will mobilize our army to confront Eldenia's provocation."
As his words fell, the atmosphere in the meeting room became immediately tense. The nobles murmured in hushed voices, exchanging glances, but Leon's gaze was one of deep contemplation. While he outwardly appeared angry and eager to retaliate, deep inside, he had already devised a more profound plan: to wage war abroad, using it as a means to win over the people, suppress internal opposition, and particularly to neutralize the factions in the noble council that opposed him.
He waved his hand lightly, signaling for the meeting to continue. He knew that the opportunity had arrived, and this would be a pivotal moment in his strategy for the coming months—and perhaps years—using Eldenia's "incursion" to solidify his rule and suppress the domestic threats that loomed over him.