Black's Invasion

Prince Felix did not lose time in calling Grand Duke Kael to discuss the pressing message from King Thrain Calanthor as the march towards Lykaios got underway.Grand Duke Kael said, "You asked for me, my prince," as he walked into Prince Felix's room."Sure, Grand Duke. Take a seat. Prince Felix said in a somber tone, "I have a letter from my father, the king."What did the letter say?" Grand Duke Kael said, his face full with curiosity and anxiety.When Prince Felix revealed the contents of the letter, his expression became more serious. "The Blacks have attacked Lykaios, and my father demands my immediate presence at the battlefield there."Grand Duke Kael nodded, realizing how serious the situation was. He questioned, prepared to carry out his duty, "What are my orders, my prince?"With an authoritative voice, Prince Felix said, "I think you should stay until Tycon arrives, considering the circumstances here in Eldrador, as mentioned in the letter."Nodding, Grand Duke Kael accepted the command. "However you please, my prince. I'll stay here until Tycon gets here, at which point we'll handle things as they arise."Grand Duke Kael ended the talk, excused himself, and went back to his place, prepared to carry out his duties as Valtania's envoy in the devastated city of Eldrador.At daybreak on the following day, Grand Duke Kael stayed behind to oversee matters in Eldrador until Tycon's arrival, while Prince Felix led his army towards Lykaios.The soldiers cheered when they arrived at their base in Lykaios, signaling the prince's approach. Lyrik Stormsurge, the base commander, greeted Prince Felix as he dismounted his horse."My prince, welcome to our base. The commander said, "My name is Commander Lyrik Stormsurge."With a nod, Prince Felix accepted the salutation. Hello, Commander Lyrik Stormsurge. It's nice to meet you. What state is things in right now?"Prince Felix was informed by Commander Lyrik Stormsurge about their strategic advantage. "For the time being, the terrain gives us the advantage. Before they can get to us, the Blacks' soldiers must deal with the hazards of the jungle that stands in their way.""Outstanding," Prince Felix said. "What about our losses?"Commander Lyrik Stormsurge's face darkened as he announced, "We have managed to reclaim three of the eight castles near the border that the Blacks initially took control of." You may be confident, my prince, that we won't let the Black forces get any closer to the city."With a determined nod, Prince Felix showed his intentions. "We have to continue being watchful. Our choices here will determine how safe our kingdom is."Prince Felix and Commander Lyrik Stormsurge planned and synchronized their defenses throughout the day, prepared to meet the approaching Blacks menace with steadfast resolve and solidarity.News of the Blacks' success under Prince Leonidas Blackwood's command reached the northern capital of Tenebrous in the Kingdom of Marcellia as Prince Felix and Commander Lyrik Stormsurge plotted in Lykaios. There was much talk and celebration of Prince Leonidas at the royal court, but some ministers voiced worries about the speed of conquest and the need for protection in the conquered territories.

The ministers continued their conversation about the consequences of Prince Leonidas' quick victories at Tenebrous' royal court. Concerns regarding the overextended defenses and the possibility of instability in the recently captured areas were expressed by a few."We have to be mindful of the consequences of quick growth," Minister Eldric said, sounding cautious. "The people in these lands may not welcome our rule with open arms."Minister Lysandra agreed, nodding, "We already have limited resources. We have to make sure we can keep things under control and stable in these areas."Recognizing the fine line between growth and upholding order, King Edward carefully considered their worries. "We have to rely on Prince Leonidas' wisdom. The king said, "He is the one who is most familiar with the situation on the ground.""My son is fully aware of the circumstances. King Edward Blackwood defended his son's choices, assuring the ministers, "I trust he has considered these matters."The ministers did not give up, however, highlighting the necessity of dispatching a seasoned leader to assist Prince Leonidas and guarantee the safety of the occupied territories. King Edward reluctantly consented, appointing Duke Ivar Raven as commander to support Prince Leonidas in his expedition."Duke Ivar, assemble your troops and advance to assist Prince Leonidas toward Lykaios. King Edward gave the order, "You are to obey him and assist him in his endeavors."Duke Ivar nodded "As you wish, Your Majesty," then departed to get ready for the march.Queen Omorfia contacted King Edward as the court session was coming to an end. She was clearly worried about their son's safety. Her concern was evident as she asked, "Any news about our son, Leonidas?"In an attempt to comfort his wife, King Edward answered, "Yes, Leonidas has accomplished extraordinary success."Queen Omorfia was comforted by the news of Prince Leonidas' victories, despite the uncertainty surrounding him. "How about my nephew? "Have they found him?" she inquired, addressing Prince Zark, the son of King Alfred who was still alive."Our men are locating him." You shall meet him when he is found," King Edward told her.Meanwhile, Prince Leonidas conferred with his generals in the Black army's camp at Lykaios. Despite recent wins, the army's morale was strong, but doubts persisted about their ability to hold the captured territories."We still have a loose hold on these regions, despite the strength of our force. General Arcturus said, "We have to proceed with prudence.General Arcturus informed Prince Leonidas that they had adequate provisions for at least three months when he asked about their supplies. But there were worries when the scouts reported that Prince Felix Calanthor had arrived with a large army."Their numbers have risen since Prince Felix joined the conflict. We are now outnumbered two to one by the Valtanian army," General Flias stated.Prince Leonidas deliberated over the matter for a long time before deciding. "For the time being, we'll remain where we are. Before moving further, let's watch how the adversary moves," he said.Prince Leonidas spoke first, his voice firm but calm, "Generals, we must be cautious yet decisive." Prince Felix's entrance has made our enemy more formidable, but we must not give up. How do you feel about our current situation?"Speaking first was General Arcturus, a seasoned tactician renowned for his strategic skills. "Your Highness, we still have a tenuous hold on these areas. We must strengthen our fortifications and make sure that our supply routes are safe."Prince Leonidas nodded, understanding the need to keep command of vital logistics. "I concur. I want Commander Alistair to be in charge of the fortification operations. We cannot afford to be vulnerable in any way."With a salute, Commander Alistair said, "As you direct, my prince." We'll fortify our defenses and make sure our positions are unbreakable."Renowned for his proficiency in reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, General Flias, provided his evaluation as well. "Your Highness, there have been tidings of heightened enemy activity in the vicinity of the western frontiers. Prince Felix seems to be gathering strength.Prince Leonidas gave this information considerable thought. "Pay careful attention to how they are moving. I wish to follow their every action. We can't let them take us by surprise."

Prince Leonidas turned to face General Arcturus and said, "Lean more strongly into these regions. Make sure our barriers are strong."General Arcturus nodded, "As you command, Your Highness," prepared to carry out the prince's directives.Prince Leonidas underlined the necessity of perseverance and solidarity in the face of a powerful foe as the conversation went on. "Keep in mind that we are Blackwood. We are not easily won over. Our cohesion and tenacity are our greatest assets. At all costs, we shall retain Lykaios."Motivated by his determination, his generals swore allegiance and commitment to the cause. Together, they came up with a thorough plan that prioritized defense, obtaining intelligence, and using diplomacy to forge partnerships with nearby tribes.Prince Felix's presence was unknown to Duke Ivar Raven, who was back in Tenebrous when King Edward Blackwood gave him orders to march towards Lykaios. Ignorant of the complex dynamics taking place in the area, his attention was on getting his soldiers ready for the upcoming campaign.