Maya's POV
The scouts came running at dawn on day three.
"Enemy forces approaching from the east," the lead scout gasped, collapsing into the command tent. "Large contingent. Organized. Moving toward the disputed southern territory."
Marcus and Maya exchanged looks.
"How large?" Marcus asked.
"Maybe thirty thousand. Maybe more."
The room went silent.
Thirty thousand soldiers. That was a kingdom-sized force. That meant someone major was moving into the Territory War. That meant the fight was about to get exponentially worse.
Kaden arrived ten minutes later, covered in dust from the northern battles. His arm was still bandaged from the champion's blade but he moved like it didn't hurt.
"The Eastern Kingdom," Marcus reported. "Elias Voss is making his move."
Kaden's jaw tightened. "Attack positions. Now."
"Wait," Maya said.
Everyone turned to look at her.
