Garreth leaned forward, his expression turning serious.
"Furthermore, Celine is heading there. If she succeeds in delivering our message and establishing a line of communication, we may be able to secure Armand's neutrality, or perhaps even their alliance. In the chaos that is to come, that could be our greatest advantage."
Everyone nodded in agreement when a soft, deliberate knock echoed from the door. Garreth raised a finger to his lips, signaling silence.
They waited calmly. A few moments passed before the door slowly creaked open, and a royal guard peeked inside. The guard gave a quick hand signal, fingers gesturing in a subtle pattern, indicating that the hallway was clear from the hero party who had been passing by.
Garreth returned a silent hand signal, ordering the guard to remain watchful. The guard bowed and closed the door quietly.
Kaelen leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Father?"
"Hmm?"
