His calm voice echoed softly through the room.
"Our borders have fallen."
"Several cities have already been lost."
"The enemy continues advancing."
General Victor listened quietly without interrupting.
Ashan continued.
"I did not come to Estaral seeking luxury."
"I did not come seeking comfort."
His hands slowly clenched upon his knees.
"I came because I carry the future of my kingdom."
Victor's expression became noticeably more serious.
Ashan took a slow breath before continuing.
"My father remained behind to defend our homeland."
"My soldiers remained behind knowing they might never return."
"They entrusted me with something far more important than fighting."
"They entrusted me with surviving."
For the first time... General Victor no longer saw merely a young prince.
He saw someone carrying the weight of an entire nation upon his shoulders.
Ashan's voice remained steady despite the grief hidden beneath it.
"I understand that Estaral owes us nothing."
