The capital was restless.
The weight of the plague still pressed upon its people, but now, an unease deeper than disease lingered in the air. Whispers of unrest spread through the streets like wildfire, traveling from merchants to commoners, from soldiers to nobles. Fear had not yet taken hold, but suspicion had begun to bloom.
Kale sat in the dimly lit common room of an inconspicuous inn, his hood drawn low as he stirred the untouched drink before him. The inn was nothing remarkable—wooden beams darkened by years of use, the faint scent of stale ale clinging to the air, and the quiet murmurs of exhausted patrons filling the silence. But the true reason he had chosen this place was its position. From his seat by the window, he had a clear view of the bustling streets outside.
And more importantly, a direct sightline to the increasing number of guards patrolling the city.
Kale's eyes flickered to the side as Serene approached, moving with quiet efficiency as she set a plate of food before him. Her brown hair was neatly tied back, her posture poised, but her expression was unreadable.
"Master," she said in a low voice. "The movements have increased."
Kale didn't respond immediately. Instead, he observed a group of soldiers passing by, their armor polished but their faces drawn tight with tension. They weren't just guarding. They were watching.
"I noticed," he murmured. He took a slow sip of his drink, eyes half-lidded in thought. "The nobles are moving more aggressively. The palace is stirring. Something is happening."
Serene hesitated for the briefest moment before lowering her voice. "There are rumors. People are saying troops have been seen near the eastern border."
Kale's fingers tightened around the cup.
So, the enemy was already beginning to act. It was subtle for now, mere whispers of movement, but it was enough to force the capital's hand.
His mind moved swiftly, connecting the pieces. The kingdom had barely recovered from the plague, the court was divided, and the nobles were already vying for power. If the enemy sought to strike, there was no better time.
But what was their true goal?
Kale knew from his past timeline that this war had never happened. The Divine Order had secured what they needed, and the neighboring kingdom had remained at peace.
But this time, they had failed.
A change that had shifted the course of history.
His eyes darkened.
The kingdom believed the enemy saw them as weak. That was only half the truth.
They were attacking because they had no choice.
The egg they sought was still hidden. Whatever plans the Divine Order had for it, they were desperate enough to use an entire kingdom as their weapon.
Kale leaned back in his chair, fingers tapping against the wooden table. His mind ran through possibilities. If the capital was already aware of the movements, they would begin to reinforce their defenses. That meant delays, misdirection, and an eventual push toward securing outside assistance.
His lips curved into a cold, knowing smile.
They would play right into his hands.
"Serene," he said, voice calm but firm. "Gather more information. I want to know exactly how the court is responding."
She bowed her head slightly. "Yes, Master."
As she disappeared into the crowd, Kale remained where he was, his thoughts already moving ahead.
The kingdom was preparing.
And so was he.