295 The Meeting

The moon hung above, casting its silvery glow over the city below, illuminating the aftermath of the recent chaos.

Leandor arrived at the area previously sealed off by the illusion barrier. His heart sank at the sight of bodies strewn across the ground and the solemn figures of beast folk working to clean up the devastation. His mane swayed as he turned, he spotted his liege, Akun, approaching.

"My liege," Leandor began, his voice heavy with remorse, "I am truly sorry that such a thing happened under my watch."

Akun regarded him with a cool gaze. "Apologies now don't change what's already been done," he replied tersely. "Your priority should be ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future."

Leandor nodded, chastened by the reprimand. "Yes, my liege," he murmured, resolving to do better.

Akun turned his attention to the Dryads attending to King Leonheart. "Once he's patched up, wake him," he instructed. "I'll meet with him immediately."