With the new structure in place, each unit captain stepped into their role, ready to lead in day-to-day operations. The captains were the linchpins of this system—on the field, they directed squads, responded to sudden threats, and maintained morale. Their words carried weight, and their orders shaped the immediate success of missions.
For the Ember Wings, a quiet scout named Senna became a captain. Known for her calm demeanor and eagle-sharp eyes, she guided her small teams through enemy territories without leaving a trace. Under her command, Wings squads delivered critical intelligence to their general—Alyra—and thus to the rest of the Circle. Senna's soft-spoken authority reassured her warriors, making them feel both safe and challenged.
In the Ember Shields, a tall, broad-shouldered fighter named Huron took the captain's mantle. He was a model of stoic courage, rarely speaking except when necessary. Under his quiet leadership, the Shields held choke points and guarded supply wagons. They trusted his judgment completely, knowing he would never abandon them in a crisis.
Among the main Ember forces—Sparks and Flames—a captain named Eydon rose to prominence. He balanced empathy with discipline, ensuring his troops stayed sharp but never lost their humanity. Eydon's squads trained tirelessly, forging bonds of mutual respect. When tensions rose, a single word from Eydon restored order. His Flames found him both stern and fair, a leader they would follow into any fray.
These captains answered directly to their respective generals, who painted the broader strategic picture. Generals gave assignments, identified priority targets, and adjusted troop movements. Captains executed these plans with precision, translating lofty objectives into ground-level action. This separation of responsibilities let each rank shine in its domain—generals strategized, captains acted, and soldiers fought with purpose.
Lyrus observed from a distance, pleased. He had created a structure that reflected the Ember Circle's values: trust, clarity, and accountability. The captains did not compete for prestige; they focused on mission success, cooperation between units, and the welfare of their troops. This synergy would ensure that when they finally confronted the Golden Serpents more openly, they would do so as a unified force, every link in the chain strong and unbreakable.