"Let us begin the vote," I said.
Everyone nodded.
"Raise your hand if you oppose executing the Royal faction."
General Lurian Vex, Colonel Dickson, and General Drenor Kael raised their hands.
"Three votes against execution. Anyone else?"
Major Mavro Cain sighed before slowly raising his hand.
"I have thought about this," he said. "If we kill them, we become no different from them."
I gave a small nod.
"Four votes against execution," I said calmly. "Anyone else?"
No one moved.
Captain Selora Varn, Colonel Kavira Sten, and Admiral Velin Rook remained seated — the only ones supporting execution.
"Hatred and grief cannot guide a nation," I said. "All of us have lost someone. I lost my parents… and my brother."
I paused only briefly, forcing the memory back into silence.
"Our judgment must remain clear."
A hand rested on my shoulder. Colonel Dickson.
I continued without turning.
"The decision is made. The Royal faction will live. They will remain under our control."
"I understand, Commander," Admiral Velin Rook replied.
He unfolded a map across the table.
"What about the cities we have captured?"
"There are six major cities," he continued. "Virelith Harbor, Kaldrom Vale, Nythera Springs, Solmara Heights, Dravencross City, and Elyndor Bay. We currently control only three — Solmara Heights, Nythera Springs, and Kaldrom Vale. The coastal cities remain contested."
"Correct," I said. "Virelith Harbor and Elyndor Bay secure our coastal line. I have already assigned a capable officer to stabilize those regions."
"And Dravencross City?" Major Mavro Cain asked.
"I will personally lead the operation to secure Dravencross City."
General Drenor Kael straightened.
"Then I will begin defensive planning and reconstruction efforts. Food distribution will also be organized."
Colonel Dickson nodded. "I will assist General Kael."
"Good," I said. "Each of you will be assigned regions according to your expertise. Efficiency will determine our survival."
A knock interrupted me.
"Commander Anderson, a message has arrived."
"Enter."
The door opened. A soldier stepped inside, saluted, and waited.
"What is the report?" I asked calmly.
"Major Jobstan has secured the remaining positions, sir. Elyndor Bay and Virelith Harbor are now under our control. He requests immediate medical support. Casualties are heavy — both soldiers and civilians."
I rose slowly and placed my hands on the table.
"You may go."
"Yes, Commander."
The soldier exited, closing the door behind him.
Silence returned to the room.
"General Lurian Vex and General Drenor Kael will be stationed in Nythera Springs. It lies at the center of the nation, allowing efficient command coordination and rapid logistical support to all regions.
Colonel Dickson, you will be stationed in the eastern region, in the city of Kaldrom Vale.
Admiral Velin Rook, you will be deployed near our two port cities, operating from the town of Selora. You will be in charge of protecting our naval bases located near Elyndor Bay and Virelith Harbor. Your fleet will ensure safe passage for incoming transport ships and secure the southern waters of the nation.
Major Mavro Cain, you will be stationed in the northwestern sector. Your duty is to eliminate emerging threats in that region. You will operate from the city of Mavro, protecting both the northern frontier — Solmara Heights — and the western approach toward Dravencross City.
Major Jobstan will continue securing the western territories. I will send him direct orders.
Captain Selora Varn, you will be stationed in the north, overseeing Solmara Heights.
Is that clear to everyone?"
Everyone nodded.
"Good. Then I will begin preparations for the attack on Dravencross City."
I turned and walked toward the door. As I reached it, my hand resting on the handle, I paused.
"Colonel Dickson."