The war room in Winter's Crown was a hive of activity. The map Amara had recovered revealed Calder's secret route, a narrow valley bypassing the northern garrisons entirely. It was a bold and dangerous maneuver, one that could lead Calder's forces directly to the capital if not intercepted.
Damien stood at the center of the room, his steel-gray eyes fixed on the map. His commanders were gathered around him, their faces a mix of concern and determination. Carys and Amara flanked him, their expressions resolute as they prepared for the next phase of the war.
"This route is Calder's only chance to strike at the heart of the kingdom," Damien began, his voice steady. "If we can cut him off here"—he pointed to the valley's narrowest point—"we can stop his advance and deal a devastating blow to his forces."