Stonepalm Duchy.
The air was heavy with unease.
Lumberling and his four companions rode hard through the gates of the ducal barracks, dust trailing behind their cloaks. The clang of weapons and the sharp calls of training soldiers filled the courtyard.
At the far end, near the main hall, they spotted Duke Hadric speaking with several armored officers. He wore a full suite of emerald-colored armor, and two swords crossed over his back.
When his sharp eyes caught sight of them, he dismissed the officers with a single nod and gestured for Lumberling's group to follow.
Inside his office, maps and reports were scattered across the table, each one marked with red lines, troop routes, and burning towns.
"Senior, what happened?" Lumberling asked, stepping forward.
