The bright morning sun streamed through the tall windows of the War Ministry's grand conference room. The walls were lined with military banners, and the polished oak table in the center reflected the stern faces of the generals seated around it. Matthew Hesh walked into the room, his shoes clicking softly on the marble floor, his posture straight but calm. This was a meeting he had been waiting for—a chance to hear firsthand how his creations had performed in the heat of battle.
General Nathaniel Warner stood to greet him, his imposing figure commanding the room. Around the table sat a collection of high-ranking officers, their crisp uniforms adorned with medals and insignias. Among them was General Henry Caldwell, known for his logistical expertise, and Brigadier General Samuel Grant, whose reputation as a tactician was well established.