At the War Room of Solaria's Royal Palace, an intricate map of the kingdom and its surrounding territories was spread out upon the polished surface of a massive oak table. Figurines representing troops and resources scattered across its expanse.
General Darius, leaned heavily on the table's edge. His hands, marked with the scars of countless battles, traced the border between Solaria and the Shadow Lands.
"Your Highness," he rumbled, addressing Queen Lyra, who sat at the head of the table, her crown glinting in the dim light. "I cannot in good conscience recommend this alliance. The vampires have been our enemies for generations. To trust them now, in our hour of weakness, would be folly."
Beside the queen, Prince Darion shifted in his seat, his brow furrowed with concern. He opened his mouth to speak, but was cut off by a sharp voice from the other side of the table.