The doors to Jian's study creaked open and Cassian and Imagor strode in. Their arrival went unacknowledged, their gazes were hesitant and they exchanged a look before Cassian broke the silence.
"There are three new sightings of Forlorn today." Cassian reported grimly. "Their numbers intensify by the day. The third battalion has it under control, but their hands are full. An elven forest was attacked and suffered great casualties. They request dragon aid."
Jian sat behind his desk, head hunched down. He didn't glance up. Not when the door opened, not when they stopped by his desk and not even when the report was given and they awaited his response.
And for a long moment after, he was silent. When he finally did respond, it was to scoff beneath his breath. A dark, derisive sound.
"Dragon... aid?" He repeated the words. His voice was hoarse and cracked from disuse.
