34 Calvus and Denter 2 (2/2)
”We were attacked by a large demon horde about a day's ride away from here. We believe they are being led by a demon beast with higher intelligence. It can be considered a stroke of good fortune that we did not lose any civilians in the recent attack.” Calvus related as Johan's expression turned grave.
”His highness would want immediate news of this, Calvus sir, I suggest you take a detachment of troops and ride with me back to Everdawn.” Johan suggested.
”I have the same idea. Denter, I leave the rest to you.” Calvus said as he urged his mount forward. Denter raised his arm in salute as Calvus and Johan rode off with a detachment of horsemen.
—
”Welcome back, my dear Tribune. Excellent job on the population move.” Aureus was smiling as he Calvus entered the study. Calvus immediately genuflected towards prince Aureus which prompted Aureus to personally step forwards to raise Calvus up.
”Thank you for the high praise, highness. But, I fear I bring sombre news.” Calvus reported as he stood. As Calvus related to Aureus his recent experience of being ambushed by a sizable demon beast horde as well as the tactical intelligence they displayed, Aureus's expression turned solemn.
”This issue carries severe ramifications. I will summon the inner council to report in two hours time. Get some rest in the meanwhile, Calvus. You look like you need it.”
Calvus bowed before leaving the study.
—
As the inner council gathered in the castle's study, the mood was decidedly sombre as every council member received news or rumors of Calvus's report. Even Reine who has no human connections has managed to get the gist of the issues.
As Edward and the mages entered. Aureus started the council without further preamble.
Much discussion centered around the possibility of the demon horde being led by a demon with higher intelligence as well as the possibility that there may far more demon beasts of the same ilk. Such a prospect was disturbing to say the least.
However no one even ventured that such a possibility was out of the realm of possible as Calvus has related in detail about how he was ambushed and the events leading up to it.
The narration has left no one in doubt that the demon hordes were far more dangerous than expected initially.
Johan called into question whether the expedition to the contested lands should even proceed under such circumstances. Aureus's answer held no hesitation ”This trip is a necessity for the future of Everdawn.”
Tarin then volunteered to oversee the analysis of Everdawn's defense in conjunction with Calvus as they determine the optimal number of troops to be left behind for defense in relation to the increased dangers of the demon beasts.
Reine offered a company of spirit beasts to the defense of Everdawn by stating that the spirit beast tribes of Mulberry Forest were now in the same boat as the people of Everdawn. They would either sink or swim together.
Calvus's brows lifted as he heard Reine's declaration but he kept whatever thoughts he had to himself. As the council winded down, Aureus approved Tarin's suggestion and requested the remaining council members to prepare themselves well for the expedition into the contested lands.