The Queen, exuding an air of authority and wisdom, weighed their suggestions thoughtfully before declaring, "I believe it is prudent to form a committee dedicated to exploring various revenue options. Our primary objective will be to pursue the treasury's stability while considering the impact on our citizens."
General Stodge stood before the council, his posture exuding confidence as he raised his voice for all to hear. "Your Majesty, our military is poised for action. We have established supply chains and logistics networks."
The Queen's eyes sparkled with fierce determination as she turned to address her gathered advisors, the weight of her decision evident in her expression. "Our conquest objective is unmistakable," she proclaimed with steadfast conviction. "We shall secure the formidable territories of Mount Dwerap, thereby unlocking the vital sea trade route to the Ardor Coastland through the treacherous waters of the Byham Sea."
General Stodge nodded thoughtfully, his eyes scanning the horizon. "Strategically, this maneuver could unlock access to invaluable resources and a wealth of lucrative trade opportunities," he remarked, his voice steady and resolute.
Lord Menas chimed in, his tone laced with caution. "Intelligence reports indicate that the Onekor Kingdom remains deeply fractured following the untimely death of their formidable leader, Bakhtin. The clans are now embroiled in a power struggle, each vying desperately to assert dominance over the others."
Lady Brynna interjected, a hint of concern edging her voice. "We must remain vigilant and prepared for the challenges posed by the treacherous terrain, not to mention the possibility of guerrilla warfare tactics that could catch us off guard."
Aria added, "The skilled artisans of our realm have gone above and beyond, crafting specialized equipment tailored for navigating the rugged mountains. Their expertise will undoubtedly aid us in overcoming the landscape's many challenges."
Queen Calista sat at the head of the grand council table, her voice steady and authoritative as she declared, "This conquest will secure our nation's prosperity. We must move forward with unwavering resolve."
General Stodge rose to his feet. His brow furrowed in concern as he addressed the gathered advisors. "Your Majesty," he implored, his tone earnest and urgent. "I request that we incorporate the crossbow army into our strategic plans. Their formidable firepower would be nothing short of invaluable in our efforts."
Calista's expression became contemplative, her gaze drifting momentarily to the ornate tapestries lining the walls, each depicting tales of past victories and defeats. She understood the weight of his proposal and the advantages it could bring. Yet, after a brief pause, she firmly shook her head. "I appreciate your reasoning, General," she replied. "However, I must decline your request."
General Stodge's brow furrowed deeply, casting a shadow over his weathered features. "May I inquire, Your Majesty, as to the reasoning behind this decision?" he asked, his voice steady yet tinged with concern.
Queen Calista, regal and composed, gestured gracefully with her hand as if to smooth over the tension in the room. "It is simple, dear General," she began, her voice melodic yet firm. "The crossbow army stands as our most formidable asset. I refuse to compromise their safety by thrusting them into the chaos of open battle. Instead, they will remain in the sanctuary, diligently honing their craft and perfecting their aim."
Lord Menas, ever the loyal advisor, nodded earnestly, his expression reflecting a deep respect for the queen's judgment. "Your Majesty's wisdom is indeed evident," he affirmed.
General Stodge, a soldier at heart, bowed his head, though a flicker of disappointment was apparent in his eyes. "As you command, Your Majesty," he conceded, though the weight of his discontent hung palpably in the air.
Lady Brynna, her curiosity piqued, leaned forward slightly, her golden hair cascading delicately over her shoulder. "And what of their numbers, Your Majesty?" she inquired, a hint of eagerness in her tone.
Queen Calista met her gaze with a steady glance, her mind clear and resolute. "The crossbow army shall remain at a formidable strength of 2,000, bolstered by an additional 500 reserves currently undergoing training," she declared, her voice echoing with authority, ensuring that her intentions were unambiguous and clear to all present.
The Chancellor, Lord Menas, rose from his seat before the assembly, his brow furrowed and his demeanor heavy with concern. He cleared his throat, drawing the attention of all present, and spoke with a voice tinged with urgency. "Your Majesty, I bear grave tidings. Reports have begun to pour in from the northern reaches; the fierce Yblev Mountain tribes have launched relentless raids upon our small villages and weary caravans. Their swift assaults leave a trail of devastation and heartache, turning once-thriving settlements into ghostly remnants of despair."
The Queen narrowed her eyes, a flicker of resolve igniting within her. "What more can you tell me?" she pressed, her tone demanding the details of this looming threat.
His voice was steady, yet worry creased his brow as he spoke. "The raids commenced simultaneously with the assault on the Sanctuary. Their brutality has forced countless families to abandon their homes, seeking refuge in the safety of nearby towns."
He presented Queen Calista with a parchment, its edges worn and ink still slightly damp, detailing the horrific incidents that had unfolded. "Fairland and Oldrock Villages, the Caravan of the Blackwell… The accounts are chillingly similar. Raiders surge like a tempest, setting flames to everything in their path and pillaging with ruthless abandon."
Queen Calista tightened her fingers around the parchment, her knuckles whitening. "What compels these tribes to sink to such depths of savagery?" she demanded, her voice a low, fierce echo in the grand hall.
Lord Menas paused, weighing his words carefully. "We do not fully understand, Your Majesty. Whispers fill the air of a charismatic leader rallying the tribes against our rule. Others speak of old grievances festering into a thirst for revenge."
The color drained from her face, replaced by a fierce crimson of indignation. "How could Governor Bretold allow this chaos to spiral out of control? His incompetence is staggering!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling.
Lord Menas hesitated, sensing her rising fury. "Your Majesty, perhaps—"
Queen Calista's voice cut through the tense atmosphere like a blade, her sharp gaze fixed on the Chancellor. "No excuses, Chancellor. His failure to protect our people is nothing short of treason. I demand his removal at once."
General Stodge, a towering figure with a stern countenance, nodded in resolute agreement. "I will see to it, Your Majesty."
Aria, a delicate yet determined presence, interjected hesitantly. "But, Your Majesty, perhaps we should investigate—"
The queen's voice rose, filled with icy fury. "What investigation is warranted? The suffering of the people speaks for itself. I want Governor Bretold brought before me to face justice now."
Lady Brynna, a noblewoman clad in elegant robes, stepped forward cautiously. "Your Majesty, consider the implications of such a swift decision—"
Queen Calista silenced her with a piercing glance that brooked no argument. "I will not tolerate failure. Governor Bretold will pay for his negligence," she pronounced, the finality of her words echoing in the ornate chamber, the weight of her decree heavy in the silence that followed.
Lord Menas approached her throne with measured steps. His expression was unfazed, a stark contrast to the tension in the room. "Your Majesty, I understand your frustration, but might we consider a more strategic approach to this dilemma?"
Though anger still simmered in the depths of Queen Calista's emerald eyes, she nodded for him to continue, her voice dropping to a low, controlled whisper. "Proceed."