Chapter 102: training
In the weeks that followed, the Ember Circle transformed their camps into a structured network of training grounds, armories, and staging areas. The generals supervised exercises that resembled choreographed dances of steel and silence. They drilled units to move swiftly between positions, ensuring no weak link if the Serpents dared a retaliatory strike.
General Kael managed logistics with tireless focus. He allocated resources so every captain's unit received the exact weapons and armor upgrades they required. His scribes updated inventory charts daily, tracking arrow counts, medicinal herbs, and spare spearheads. If the Circle marched forward, they would do so with abundant supplies and no fear of shortages.
General Alyra focused on refining scouting protocols. Her Wings and allied scouts practiced infiltration in rough terrain, learning to bypass traps similar to those the Serpents might set. Alyra planned to outmaneuver Ivrineh, the Coil of Quiet Steel, by ensuring no infiltration attempt could surprise Ember forces. The duel of shadows would be waged beforehand through cunning reconnaissance.
General Maron reinforced defensive perimeters. Even while preparing to strike, the Circle wouldn't abandon caution. If the Serpents launched a preemptive counterattack, Maron's Shields would hold the line. His training emphasized seamless rotation and layered defenses, ensuring no enemy blade found a gap. Facing Serpent generals in the field, Maron trusted his methods would keep Ember lives safe.
General Ciri orchestrated sparring matches that mimicked likely duels. She studied the Serpent generals' known tactics—Malzaryn's nighttime raids, Yashever's reliance on poison and fear—and taught captains to adapt. By simulating these scenarios, the Circle's leaders gained confidence in their roles: Eydon's Flames would counter swift assaults, Senna's Wings would thwart hidden attackers, and Huron's Shields would anchor key fronts.
Throughout these preparations, Lyrus observed quietly. He practiced channelling the system's subtle support, guiding leadership and ensuring no detail slipped through the cracks. He knew Kazreth, the Jade Whisper, would anticipate these maneuvers. By openly organizing duels and matchups, Lyrus wanted to project strength and transparency—a challenge to Serpent illusions.
No Serpent armies approached yet, but their spies surely watched. Let them see a disciplined force willing to engage on equal terms. This was not reckless aggression, but a firm stand. Each Ember leader honed their skills, each ally understood their part, and Lyrus stood at the center, calm and prepared. If forced to attack, they would do so on their own terms, facing foes name by name.
Weekly Power Status
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Ranking 
-- Power
stone