Julian stood at the head of the table, his high-collared coat feeling like a suit of armor as he spread the ancient vellum map of the Viremount Continent across the surface.
The edges were frayed, and the ink had faded to a deep sepia, but it held the weight of centuries.
"Since you've decided to grace us with your presence, Your Highnesses," Julian began, his voice regaining that cool, authoritative edge that had made him a legend in the lecture halls of his past life, "...we shall skip the pleasantries."
They nodded, ready to take on the lesson.
"Lucius and I were about to discuss the topographical defense of the Northern border. Prince Cassian, since you're so observant, tell me: why has the Holy Empire never successfully breached the Iron Pass?"
The Iron Pass, also called Blackspire Mountain, marked the border with the Holy Empire.
Cassian blinked, his cocky slouch faltering for a second. He looked at the map, his eyes tracing the jagged lines of the Blackspire mountains.
