The Storm on the Horizon

The adviser led them swiftly through the winding hallways of the castle, his footsteps echoing against the stone floors. The tension in the air was thick, almost palpable, as Xypheron and Vexaria exchanged silent glances, both sensing that whatever awaited them was far from trivial.

They arrived at a small, dimly lit room at the far end of the castle—a strategic space often used for confidential matters. A large map of the kingdom stretched across the wall, the northern border marked with red pins. Vexaria's eyes immediately locked onto the map, noticing the subtle shifts in the pins' positions—shifts that hadn't been there the last time she saw it.

The adviser spoke, his voice tight with urgency. "There have been reports of unusual activity along the northern border. Villages have been burned, and scouts have disappeared without a trace. We suspect a coordinated attack."

Xypheron's jaw tightened as he moved closer to the map, studying the points where the activity was concentrated. Vexaria felt her stomach drop, a familiar unease creeping up her spine. The northern border had always been a point of tension, but never had it been this aggressive. Whoever—or whatever—was causing these disturbances had the kingdom in its sights.

"What kind of forces are we dealing with?" Xypheron asked, his voice calm but with a clear edge of concern. His hand hovered over the map, tracing the lines of the northern expanse. He knew the strategic importance of this area too well.