"Sound the full alarm," he ordered immediately, his voice sharp, commanding, every trace of hesitation gone.
"Seal the inner corridors, double the guard at the western flank, and have every available unit mobilized."
"Yes, my king!" the guard responded, already turning to carry out the orders without another word.
Kaelvryn's gaze snapped back to Lucas instantly, "rascal, don't you dare move from this bed," he said, stepping closer, his expression hard, leaving no room for argument.
Lucas straightened slightly despite his weakened state, something stubborn flashing in his eyes.
"You can't be serious," he said, his voice strained but firm, "you just heard what I told you—this is not just an attack—"
"And you just told me you were nearly killed," Kaelvryn cut in sharply, his tone colder now, edged with something dangerously close to anger, "so unless you've suddenly regained the strength you lost bleeding out on the floor, you will stay exactly where you are."
