Chapter 122: Spear Phalanx and Preliminary Discussions on Military Reform

Light had given way, and nightfall descended silently. The flickering campfire in the great hall cast shadows on the king's face, outlining the stiff lines as if sculpting a cooling statue.

Xiulote looked at his friend with anticipation, yet he could feel the king's gaze growing deeper and the distance between them starting to stretch.

The youth felt a sense of urgency in his heart and didn't wait any longer. Subconsciously, he reached out his hand, hesitated for just a moment, and then gently pulled at Aweit's sleeve. Then, looking into his eyes, he sincerely and firmly made his promise again.

"Aweit, believe me. I will always stand with you, just like in the past," he said.