"Won't they figure it out from the corruption specialists?" Ssk'thar asked.
"Corruption magic can be disguised as other forms," Seraphina said. "My forces will appear as unusually skilled mages, nothing more. I'll only reveal myself as a last resort—when they've committed so deeply that my intervention can turn a battle decisively."
Lyra nodded, her strategic instincts approving of the approach. "Then our defensive strategy should be layered. Make them pay for every inch, but don't commit to holding any single position to the death. We trade space for casualties—theirs, not ours."
She began sketching on the map, her hands moving with practiced confidence.
"First Line holds as long as possible. When pressure becomes too great, controlled retreat to Second Line. Second Line holds until circumstances demand withdrawal to Third Line. Third Line is our true fortress—that's where we make our final stand if it comes to it."
