Chapter 149: Embroidery Hunting.
"And what of Tackeros?" Benjamin pressed, his voice rising. "You sit here debating over crumbs while the wolf at our doorstep grows stronger. The kingdom of Tackeros has been swallowing realms for years." Now he looked around.
"Do you think they will hesitate to come for us once Fooleria falls? We need to gather forces now—fortify our defenses and prepare for the inevitable."
Mumbles broke out among the council. Several men exchanged uneasy glances, their earlier confidence faltering.
"Tackeros is no ordinary threat," one general muttered. "Their soldiers are relentless, their strategy unmatched. We cannot defeat them with brute force alone."
"Then what do you suggest?" another snapped. "Surrender? Diplomacy won’t save us when they come marching on our gates."
"We cannot afford to appear weak," Benjamin said sharply. "This is not just about Fooleria or Tackeros—it’s about Wyfn-Garde’s survival. If we do not show strength now, we will invite ruin."
King Gideon finally stood, his imposing presence silencing the room. "Enough."
All eyes turned to him as he spoke, his tone measured but resolute. "This council will not waste time quarreling over futures we cannot yet predict. The focus must remain on the present. Fooleria is all but defeated, but the war is not over. Let our men return home victorious before we concern ourselves with the next battle."
"But, Your Majesty—"
The king raised a hand, cutting off the protest. "I have spoken. This discussion will resume once our soldiers return. Until then, do not let fear of Tackeros cloud your judgment."
With that, Gideon stepped away from the table, his robes sweeping behind him as he exited the hall. The heavy door creaked shut behind him, leaving the council in uneasy silence.