Hadric froze and the tent fell into silence. His eyes widened until they almost seemed to pop from his tired face. "What did you say?" he stammered. "A Magic Circle Seven? You mean to tell me I've been unknowingly hosting a high-rank mage from the Aetherborne Empire under my territory?"
"Senior, I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner," Lumberling said. "Their identities could bring complications if revealed. But I promise you, they mean no harm."
Hadric's jaw tightened, his expression darkening. "I'm not welcoming them again," he said coldly, trying to steady his tone. "This matter ends here…"
"Senior," Lumberling interrupted firmly, his gaze locking onto the Duke's. "Their identities don't matter right now. You and your men are bleeding out there, and the next attack will finish what's left of you. But with their help, it doesn't have to end that way. They've already agreed to lend their strength."
