Three days had passed since the duel with Lyralei. Two days remained in their agreed ceasefire.
Arthur stood in the war room, his newly restored System humming.
The power was there, but different. Around the tactical table, his key advisors waited for his decision.
"Pull everyone back," Arthur commanded, his eyes fixed on the map. "Full retreat to the walls. Every soldier, every scout."
Commander Hawklight frowned. "My lord, with your System restored, we could press—"
"That's exactly what Lyralei expects." Arthur's smile held no warmth. "A restored king pressing his advantage while the Phoenix Emperor remains weakened. But what if he meets a desperate king instead? One willing to sign anything for peace?"
"You want to deceive him," Isolde said from her position by the window. Through their restored bond, he felt her mix of concern and admiration.
