"Two hundred dead to save three days seems cost-effective in pure mathematics." Lilith's voice carried the weight of someone who'd made similar calculations before.
"But it announces our presence definitively. No more hoping Radiant Empire doesn't know we're coming."
"They already know we're coming. Lord Arcturus made sure of that." Liam studied the intelligence report. "Question is whether engaging garrison provides tactical advantage beyond time savings."
"It provides psychological advantage," Torven interjected. "First engagement sets tone. If we bypass garrison, we look like we're avoiding fights. If we crush garrison quickly and brutally, we demonstrate overwhelming power that might make other positions surrender rather than resist."
"Or it makes them fight harder because they know surrender won't save them." Zara's counterpoint was logical.
"Psychological warfare cuts both ways."
