"Damage Control"
Mason's POV
I strode purposefully down the palace corridor, my footsteps echoing off the marble floors. The weight of recent events pressed heavily on my shoulders, but I couldn't afford to show any weakness. As I approached the war room, I steeled myself for the long day ahead.
Captain Reeves, the head of the palace guards, was already waiting for me. His weathered face bore the stern expression of a man who had seen his fair share of crises.
"Your Highness," he said, bowing slightly as I entered.
"Warrior Reeves," I nodded, taking my seat at the head of the table. "Let's begin."
Reeves wasted no time. "We've increased patrols around the perimeter, as per your orders. What's our next move?"
I leaned forward, my voice low and authoritative. "We're reducing palace st
