×𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑-𝐂𝐑𝐎𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒×

Chapter 3: The Broken Accord

The command center buzzed with activity as Aeloria’s leaders scrambled to respond to the new intelligence about Lord Braden’s plans. Maps were spread across the table, and strategic discussions filled the air as Lyra Maren took her place among the key figures of the city’s defense. Her recent conversation with the Northern Alliance prisoner had only heightened the urgency of their situation.

Captain Roderic, now deeply engrossed in the strategy meeting, looked up as Lyra entered. “Enchantress Maren, please join us. We could use your insights.”

Lyra nodded and took a seat next to Roderic, her mind already racing through the possibilities. The maps detailed the northern borders and key strategic points that would be critical in any forthcoming offensive. The room fell silent as the discussion turned to how best to fortify their positions and prepare for the worst.

“We have to assume that Lord Braden’s offensive will come soon,” Roderic said, pointing to a location on the map. “His faction is known for their aggressive tactics. We need to bolster our defenses here, at the border forts.”

Lyra studied the map carefully. “And what about potential diplomatic solutions? If Braden’s faction is pushing for war due to dissatisfaction with the treaty, there might be a chance to negotiate with other factions within the Northern Alliance.”

Roderic shook his head. “That’s a risky move. With tensions running high, we can’t afford to waste time on diplomacy when our defenses are so vulnerable. Our priority must be to secure our borders and prepare for a siege.”

Lyra understood the need for immediate action, but her instincts told her that understanding the full scope of the conflict could be just as crucial. “What about reaching out to other Northern factions? If we can find allies within their ranks, it might weaken Braden’s position.”

The room murmured with agreement, and Roderic considered Lyra’s suggestion. “It’s a possibility. If you have any contacts or can find a way to communicate with them discreetly, it might be worth exploring.”

Lyra nodded, determined to follow through on this lead. “I’ll see what I can do. But in the meantime, we need to focus on preparing for the attack.”

The meeting continued with a focus on logistics and preparations. As the hours passed, Lyra felt the weight of her responsibilities growing heavier. She knew that the conflict ahead was more than just a battle of forces—it was a test of strategy, diplomacy, and courage.

Once the meeting concluded, Lyra stepped outside into the cooler evening air. The city was still recovering from the morning’s chaos, and the atmosphere was thick with apprehension. She took a deep breath and made her way to the city's library, hoping to find information that could help her understand more about Lord Braden and his faction.

The library was a haven of quiet and order amidst the turmoil of the city. Lyra walked through the rows of ancient tomes and scrolls, searching for texts that might offer insight into the Northern Alliance’s internal politics. She had always found solace in books, and she hoped that the library’s archives would hold the answers she needed.

After hours of research, she uncovered a collection of documents detailing the history of the Northern Alliance and its various factions. Many of these texts were centuries old, but they provided valuable context about the alliance’s structure and its leaders. One document, in particular, caught her eye—a detailed account of Lord Braden’s rise to power.

According to the document, Braden was a former general who had become disillusioned with the Northern Alliance’s leadership. He had been known for his exceptional tactical skills but had grown increasingly frustrated with what he perceived as weak and conciliatory policies. His faction, known as the Iron Vanguards, had been advocating for a more aggressive stance against Aeloria for years.