Kael sat in the war room of Vortan Keep, surrounded by maps and reports, the room illuminated by the flickering light of a single lantern.
The kingdom was inching closer to war, and he could feel its shadow growing heavier with each passing day.
The knock on the door broke his concentration.
Without looking up, he called, "Enter."
Gerald stepped in, carrying the latest ledgers and a rolled-up map.
The lines on his face showed the strain of the past weeks, but his movements were as precise and composed as ever.
He placed the materials on the table and took a moment to examine Kael's expression.
"My lord," Gerald began, "I have compiled the full report you requested. It includes troop readiness, resource stockpiles, and the impact of the refugee influx on the barony."
Kael gestured for him to sit. "Good. Let's begin with the population. How many do we number now?"