The night was deep, and the flickering firelight cast shadows across Altu's face, reflecting his ever-changing thoughts. In his hands was a document, containing freshly delivered intelligence. Across from him, Kane sat with his fingers interlaced, his gaze profound, scrutinizing what seemed to be a complex chessboard in his mind.
Altu adjusted the papers, his voice calm yet deliberate as he began his report.
"Wolf has sent word. Leon's forces have secured the western territories of Eldenia. While the initial phase of the war has been successful, complications are emerging on the frontlines. Airtulan has evidently taken action, deploying some of their tribal forces. However, we still don't know which tribes are involved. Wolf's network is trying, but penetrating Airtulan's core tribes to gather more intelligence remains out of reach."
Kane listened intently, his brow furrowing slightly, though he did not interrupt. His sharp gaze skimmed over the papers in Altu's hand, as if he could see through the words to grasp their deeper meaning.
Altu continued, "There's another pressing issue. Along the northeastern border, Eric, the Marquis, has deliberately left the defenses unguarded, seemingly to lure Airtulan forces into attacking Leon's rear. According to reports, Airtulan's tribes have already launched several strikes on Leon's supply lines, causing notable disruptions. Leon's army is now forced to establish new camps in western Eldenia, which significantly increases logistical pressure. Meanwhile, Eric remains passive, merely observing the situation."
He paused, his expression growing more serious as he added, "Wolf wants to know if we should intervene—perhaps by creating chaos along the northeastern border or disrupting Airtulan's raids."
Kane was silent for a moment, his gaze fixed on the shifting shadows cast by the fire. Finally, he shook his head. "No, don't act rashly. If Airtulan's tribes have already joined the fray, my first priority is to uncover their identities. That is the key. The positions and strength of these tribes will directly determine Airtulan's next move. Without sufficient intelligence, any interference would only make the situation harder to control."
His tone shifted, becoming steadier and more commanding. "As for the internal situation in Strongson, Altu, I need you to focus on gathering intelligence about the nobility. Pay close attention to those who oppose Leon in the military council, especially individuals like Marquis Eric, who clearly harbor ulterior motives. I want to understand their motivations, their alliances, and whether they could jeopardize our plans."
Altu nodded, a look of contemplation crossing his face. "Understood, Your Highness. I'll instruct Wolf's network to prioritize uncovering the secrets of these nobles. I'll personally verify every piece of intelligence to ensure nothing is overlooked."
A subtle, enigmatic smile crept onto Kane's lips. His voice was low, yet it carried an unmistakable weight. "We've already ignited the spark in the Eastern Continent. Now, we wait and see what these flames consume. In the end, the nobles of Strongson will learn that the enemy before them is not the only danger they face."
Altu rose, bowing respectfully before leaving the room. He knew that every decision Kane made was imbued with profound intent, and his role was to execute them with meticulous precision. Yet he couldn't shake the sense that behind this intricate game, Kane's true ambitions ran far deeper than any of their current adversaries could fathom.