After the dramatic victory at Fort Arven, news of the triumph spread rapidly across the land of Sulland. In the palace of Korasium, King Leinhart received the report with a look of pride, yet caution. He knew this victory was merely the beginning of a greater chapter.
Prince Gerald led the troops back to the capital to report the results of the battle and bring home the wounded soldiers. Meanwhile, General Kael and General Yuvan remained in Arven, reinforcing the defenses and compiling a detailed report on the enemy's strategies. They knew that although the enemy had retreated, they had not yet given up.
Meanwhile, in a secret location at the border between Rutor, Livasol, and Gargantos, the three generals of the enemy alliance gathered to discuss the continuation of the war. General Kurell spoke firmly, stating that a direct assault had failed and their troops were too weary for another round. General Vargan agreed reluctantly, saying that his soldiers' morale was low. Only Salvius remained calm, taking notes on every weakness and outcome of their strategy.
With no clear opening for another attack, the decision was made: the alliance of the three kingdoms would withdraw all their forces.
Reports from Korasium's scouts soon reached Arven and then the capital. They clearly stated that troops from Rutor, Gargantos, and Livasol had retreated from the front lines. News of victory spread like wildfire across Korasium. Cities cheered, bells rang, and the people rejoiced.
With the situation more secure, General Kael and General Yuvan finally left Fort Arven. Together with Prince Gerald, they carried the complete report and returned to the royal palace to meet with King Leinhart.
Elsewhere, shadows began to stir. In the mountainous region between Livasol and Rutor, there was a hidden place untouched by conflict—an old village that seemed ordinary from the outside but held ancient history. There, someone began to move. A hooded young man, with an old scar on his face and eyes gazing far eastward. His name had not yet been spoken, but his steps moved in the same direction: Korasium.
Meanwhile, Bima, who lived in a small village where he was raised by Pak Tanu, began hearing news of the war from visiting traders. His heart stirred. His dream of becoming the number one general had never faded, and now he knew the world outside was burning with conflict. He strengthened his resolve—one day, he would leave this village.
Lightning cracked across the eastern sky. Atop a high cliff, the hooded youth unrolled an old scroll bearing the symbol of a crowned dragon. His sharp eyes signaled one thing: the real storm had yet to begin.