Reincarnated Into A World Of Elves As The Only Man

Lyra moved through the winding corridors of the palace with purpose, her steps swift but measured. The information Eren had shared weighed heavily on her mind, demanding action while requiring discretion. The western aqueduct—a vulnerable point they’d never considered. If Thornvale had indeed found a way to compromise their water supply...

She reached the small council chamber where her mother often retreated during midday to review reports away from the bustle of the great hall. As expected, Elysia sat surrounded by maps and correspondence, her silver-streaked hair pulled back severely from her face, the tips of her pointed elven ears visible through the strands. What Lyra hadn’t anticipated was Sorrel’s presence, her younger sister lounging near the window, twirling a dagger absently between her slender fingers.

Sorrel looked up first, her keen emerald eyes registering Lyra’s tension immediately. The scattered light from the window caught on the subtle markings along her cheekbones that hadn’t yet developed the luminescence of full maturity. "You look like someone who’s discovered scorpions in their boots," she remarked, straightening. "What troubles you, sister?"

Elysia glanced up from her papers. "Lyra? I thought you were training with Eren."

"We finished early," Lyra replied, closing the door firmly behind her. She approached the table, hesitating only briefly before continuing. "I believe we may have a security concern that requires immediate attention."

Elysia’s expression sharpened. "Explain."

"The western aqueduct may be compromised," Lyra said simply. "Specifically at the section passing through the old quarry."

Sorrel abandoned her position by the window, moving to the table where a detailed map of their territory lay spread. "That’s nearly five leagues from our walls, well beyond our regular patrol routes." Her finger traced the blue line representing the aqueduct. "What makes you suspect this particular location?"

Here was the question Lyra had been preparing for since leaving the garden. "One of my agents reported unusual activity in the area three days ago. I didn’t think much of it initially, but after reviewing our water security protocols this morning, I realized the vulnerability."

Elysia studied her daughter’s face intently. "You’ve never mentioned this agent before."

"For good reason," Lyra countered smoothly. "They move beyond our borders regularly. If I reported on every shadow they investigated, we’d spend all day in council."