A Secret Accord

With the Ember Shadow trained and ready, Lyrus called a secret council meeting with the four generals. They gathered in a hidden cavern lit by glowworms, their luminous trails casting gentle blue-green patterns on stone walls. Outside, a distant waterfall muffled their voices, ensuring no eavesdropper would catch even a whisper.

Lyrus explained the Ember Shadow's capabilities in careful detail. They were not an army, but a scalpel—able to extract information from enemy lines, neutralize a deadly threat before it emerged, or rescue an endangered ally without attracting attention.

Kael, crossing his arms, acknowledged how this unit could prevent future betrayals. "Their presence will be a warning to the Serpents: we see deeper than their illusions."

Alyra smiled thinly, pleased that her archers' stealthy skills had found a new purpose. "The Serpents thrive on secrets. Now we have secrets of our own, ethically wielded."

Maron, a man of few words, nodded once. "We stand stronger with them."

Ciri raised a hand, "We must ensure they remain loyal and principled. No hidden blade should ever be turned inward."

Lyrus agreed wholeheartedly. "This unit exists to protect, not oppress. Their moral compass must be unwavering. If any member falters, we address it quietly but firmly."

They formed a secret accord: the generals and Lyrus alone would issue missions to the Ember Shadow. No written orders would record their existence. Communication would rely on trust and subtle signals. If one day the Circle confronted the Golden Serpents openly, the Ember Shadow could shift battles before they began—toppling hidden leaders, dismantling sabotage networks, or rescuing key allies from traps.

With this accord set, they sealed it with a quiet oath, each general placing a hand against the cavern's cool wall. Lyrus remained calm, reassuring them that he bore full responsibility. He would guide the Ember Shadow's moral compass personally, ensuring their actions never stained the Circle's honor.

When they parted ways, each general felt a weight and a comfort. The Ember Circle now had an invisible guardian force, a last line of defense against cunning foes. As rumors of Serpent scheming persisted, the Ember Circle stood confident, united, and prepared for whatever trials lay ahead.