Harlo's words settled in the air, and for a brief moment no one spoke while the meaning behind them slowly sank in and spread a quiet tension across the group.
Ethan's expression stiffened slightly, and although he kept his posture steady, a clear trace of shock flashed across his eyes while his fingers tightened subtly against his sleeve.
Karlo was not much better, and his brows lifted while his lips parted slightly as he looked at Harlo in disbelief, and even though he tried to maintain composure, the reaction could not be fully hidden.
"Xylos Empire?" Karlo repeated slowly, and his tone carried surprise.
Ethan glanced at him briefly, and then looked back at Harlo while narrowing his eyes slightly as he processed the information.
"So the war has already spread that far…" Ethan said quietly, and his voice remained controlled but heavier than before.
Harlo gave a faint nod.
