Chapter 53: A Diplomatic Feint
Days later, a delegation arrived at a neutral crossroad—five Golden Serpent emissaries in fine robes, escorted by a half-dozen guards. Their leader, a tall woman with sharp eyes and a painted fan, introduced herself as Envoy Kaiya. She bore no visible weapons but wore a serpent brooch that glinted in sunlight. Word reached Lyrus swiftly, and he chose to meet them with Alyra, Kael, and a handful of Ember Blazes.
The meeting place: an old clearing with a single stone bench. Birds sang cautiously, sensing the tension. The Serpents offered polite greetings and couched their intentions in vague terms—seeking "mutual understanding" and "arrangements for safe commerce." Their smiles were thin, their eyes calculating.
Lyrus stood calmly, hands clasped behind his back. He responded quietly, expressing willingness to maintain peace if sincerity guided both sides. But the Ember Circle would not tolerate further sabotage or incursions. He made this clear in measured tones that betrayed no anger, only certainty.
Kaiya fanned herself and offered a bland smile. She acknowledged that misunderstandings might occur in troubled times. She hinted that some rogue elements within her sect might have acted without proper sanction. If the Ember Circle would be patient, the Serpents could "resolve internal matters."
Lyrus knew a lie when he heard one. This was a test of diplomatic skill—a feint to gauge whether the Circle could be lulled into complacency. Alyra's knuckles whitened on her bow. Kael's gaze sharpened. Around them, Ember Blazes stood at attention, silent pillars of resolve.
When asked if the Serpents would cease their covert actions, Kaiya deflected, saying only that stability benefited all. Eventually, both sides parted without agreement, leaving no blood spilled but no trust gained.
As the Serpents left, a subtle smirk touched Kaiya's lips, confident they had confused their opponents. But Lyrus and his council were not fooled. They learned how adept the Serpents were at weaving half-truths, testing resolve without committing to open conflict.
On the return path, Lyrus commended his companions. They had maintained composure, shown strength without bluster. The Serpents knew now that smiles and fancy words wouldn't soften the Ember Circle's stance. Another test passed—this one of wits and patience.
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