Aurora's Pursuit

As Cordelia rejoiced at the future gains, Thorian's eyes narrowed dangerously. Since he intended to conquer his neighbors, offering them a hundred soldiers went against his desires. Yet, Morgane could become a thorn in his foot if he didn't capture or kill her. After all, before her adoption, her treatment was anything but desirable.

Sure she would come one day to avenge herself, he answered, reluctance painted on his face, "I want them alive. If they are dead, I won't give you anything!"

However, Cordelia shook her head and smirked in response, "No matter the result, I want fifty summoned, or I won't spend my resources and soldier's time for your wild goose chase."

After a tense silence, Thorian said through gritted teeth, "Ten."

"forty," retorted the queen.

"Don't push me! Twenty! That's my last offer," Thorian said, his voice sounding guttural as his forehead's veins bulged in fury.