"I am hungry and exhausted, Raum."

Raum nods, going to prepare me a meal.

I sigh, leaning back and relaxing on my favourite cushions. I had hoped the triplicate creation of Skull Beasts would have had more impact considering the costs.

The one on the front lines had some success at least... as did the one unleashed in Tessalatoria, but the Skull Beasts frenzy in Jeraldine should have caused it burst from the dungeon and seek more humans to kill, and where better than a prosperous nearby city that has grown fat and defenceless?

The report from Tec'tar was frustrating, how that beast was taunted into attacking our own forces, but Si'vesj's one was most distressing.

It is as I feared, that this Etranger is surprisingly capable. A commander and wisdom type is actually far worse for our plans than a powerful fighter.

I should have Furfur hanged for incompetence in the Regillian Square. As he has become an eyesore, I suppose this is an opportunity for that. I should take it for sure.

I wonder how they managed to defeat it? It was one of best works, utilising a lot of quality materials.

I am sure they will now investigate the ley lines more closely. And apparently, the Sage of Thunder has chosen to accompany this Etranger. She will quickly understand what we are doing now. And if that occurs, the Kingdom will take considerable precautions, and our ability to move with the crystals will be compromised.

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At least my pre-emptive damage control paid off.

I just have to hope that Si'vesj finds an opportunity to kill him and the Sage and the princess as soon as possible. She must. I will instruct her of that.

In the meantime, I will have come up with further contingencies.

It may be that I have to use an emergency plan to maximise the advantage of the crystals before we lose them in the worst-case scenario.

Hmmm... Perhaps the front-line success is a benefit in more ways than one, as I find it likely that the capital will send reinforcements. Especially since supplies from Tessalatoria will be compromised.

I can still work this to my advantage, though it is not the optimal plan I originally had.

Then again, the times an optimal plan has gone through... I can count on one claw.

I can also place Shax Gi'limah in a good position, if Furfur is removed. That will help, she is loyal and competent.

I suppose I should give a commendation to Tec'tar for destroying the fortress despite everything. The skull beasts rampage was beyond his control. I will have to see the casualty reports though. We do not heal up from mistakes as easily as the humans, and I imagine the next push will have to be delayed.

I also cannot create more undead for a while. The Void spirits will be depleted. A warzone regenerates quickly, but it is still a delay.

Raum returns with a platter of meats. I waste no time in devouring it.

"Cancel the council meetup this afternoon. I need rest. Issue up a writ for Furfurs arrest. I have plenty of grounds for gross incompetence now. Return it to me to sign when you are done."

"Yes, my lord, at once. Is there anything else?"

I ponder.

"Allow no one else to disturb me, except Marcosias S'lein. Summon him."

"As you will, my lord."

Raum bows and leaves.

I still have a lot to do today. So much for being able to relax and recover my power.

But the world will die if I fail.