The Siege of the Capital and Velix's Last Hope

"What did you say? The capital is surrounded by rebel forces?" Velix's eyes widened in horror as the words struck him like lightning.

The soldier nodded gravely, confirming, "Yes, Your Majesty. The capital is surrounded. The rebels arrived after successfully conquering the four golden quadrangular cities. Their goal now is to take the capital."

Velix fell silent, frozen on his throne with a pale face. Just minutes ago, he had received news of the fall of the four cities, and he had feared that the rebels might target the capital next.

Now, his fears had been proven true, and they were arriving faster than he had anticipated.

"Damn it... how did this happen?" Velix muttered, his expression dazed.

The rage that had once consumed him had faded, replaced by a sense of despair and confusion.