The nobles of Ardentia gathered in the grand hall of Erenhall, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of candles and the fire pit that crackled in the center of the room. Duke Harlen stood at the head of the hall, his presence commanding attention. He raised his hand, and the room fell silent.
"My lords and ladies, I have grave news," he began, his voice echoing off the stone walls. "Scouts have reported that Corvus of the Shadowfire is planning a massive assault on the Burning Valley. We must prepare to defend our lands and our people."
The room erupted into a cacophony of gasps, whispers, and shouts. Lord Kael Flameheart stood up, his face set in a determined expression. "We will not falter, Duke Harlen. The Burning Valley is a crucial stronghold. We must defend it at all costs."
Lady Selene Sunforge nodded in agreement. "I will send my Ashvale armors to reinforce the valley's defenses. We will not let Corvus take our lands."
Sir Garrick Blaze spoke up, his voice booming across the hall. "I'll lead the charge, Duke Harlen. We'll show Corvus the true meaning of Ardentian valor."
Duke Harlen nodded, a small smile on his lips. "I have already sent the Ember Knights to fortify the defenses of the valley. They will hold the line until we arrive."
Lord Thane Stonefist spoke up, his voice like thunder. "I'll bring my Dragon's Teeth to bear on Corvus's forces. We'll crush them beneath our feet."
Lady Arianna Emberwing nodded, her eyes shining with determination. "The Winged Guard will patrol the skies, striking from above. We'll give Corvus no quarter."
Lady Lyra Fierysong spoke up, her voice filled with curiosity. "Duke Harlen, what of the rogue knight, Kaelith? I heard he was seen with Cyrin in the Burning Valley."
Duke Harlen's expression turned serious. "Ah, yes. Kaelith. I have recruited him into our ranks, and he has agreed to lead the Ember Knights as their commander. I have also promised him the lordship of the Burning Valley, pending King Kael's approval."
The room fell silent once more, the nobles turning to stare at Duke Harlen in surprise. Lord Ryker Blackwood spoke up, his voice low and measured. "I know this knight. He is no rogue, but a man with a sense of honor. I support Duke Harlen's decision."
Sir Maric Oakenshield nodded in agreement. "Aye, I've heard of Kaelith's exploits. He's a skilled warrior, and we'll need all the good men we can get if we're to defeat Corvus."
Lady Liana Windwhisper spoke up, her voice filled with a hint of mischief. "I hope he's not too proud to take advice from a Wind Dancer. We'll need to work together if we're to win this war."
The nobles murmured among themselves, some nodding in agreement, others looking uncertain. But ultimately, they all turned to Duke Harlen, their faces set with determination. "We support your decision, Duke Harlen," Lord Kael Flameheart said, speaking for the assembly.
Duke Harlen nodded, a sense of relief washing over him. "Thank you, my friends. Together, we will defend our lands and defeat Corvus's darkness. Let us prepare for war!"
The nobles erupted into a cheer, their voices echoing off the stone walls as they drew their swords and raised them high.
"I'll compose a ballad to inspire our troops!" Lady Lyra Fierysong exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.
"I'll ride with the Dragon's Teeth!" Lord Thane Stonefist declared, his voice like thunder.
King Kael Flameheart stood up, his expression thoughtful. "I understand the gravity of the situation, my friends. However, we cannot send a large force to the Burning Valley. Corvus may be planning to attack multiple fronts, and we must be prepared to defend our other strongholds."
The nobles nodded in agreement, murmuring among themselves. Duke Harlen spoke up, his voice measured. "But, Your Majesty, the Burning Valley is a crucial stronghold. If we lose it, Corvus will have a clear path to the heart of Ardentia."
King Kael nodded, his eyes scanning the room. "I understand, Duke Harlen. But we must prioritize our defenses. We will send a contingent of Ashvale armored knights, led by Lady Selene Sunforge. They will provide a strong defense for the Burning Valley."
Lady Arianna Emberwing spoke up, her voice filled with a suggestion. "I can send a squad of my Winged Guard to support the Ashvale knights, Your Majesty. They can provide aerial reconnaissance and strike at Corvus's forces from above."
King Kael nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Very well, Lady Arianna. Send a squad of your best pilots. We will also send a small contingent of Ashvale armored knights, but we cannot spare more than that."
The nobles nodded, their faces set with determination. Duke Harlen spoke up, his voice filled with a hint of reluctance. "I will inform Kaelith and Cyrin of our decision, Your Majesty. They will understand the necessity of our actions."
King Kael nodded, his expression resolute. "See to it, Duke Harlen. We will do everything in our power to defend the Burning Valley, but we must be prepared for all eventualities."