Elderly Man

Imperial Capital, Delarosa Household

"Matriarch! I-I-It's bad! Very bad! W-We've been surrounded by imperial troops!" a female servant stuttered with shortness of breath as she brought urgent news.

Inside the family council room, Laelana was just having a meeting with the highest-ranking family members of her household when the female servant abruptly barged in.

Laelana didn't immediately condemn the female servant's act but frowned nonetheless. The sudden news disrupted the meeting and threw everyone off-topic as the high elders quickly mumbled with wild guesses in alarm and worry.

"Speak clearly!" Laelana barked before demanding answers, "What kind of imperial soldiers are outside? How many are there? And why have they come? Have they stated their intentions?"

"We don't know yet, Matriarch!" the female servant shook her head and reported, "They haven't said anything. Right now, they are still rallying troops outside of our territory."