Of course, Cain was not one to dwell on problems. Problems existed to be solved, and solutions were always within reach for those with the will and power to pursue them. His focus now was clear: he could elevate two more of his people into Knights of the Scarlet Throne. Fortunately, the candidates were already chosen.
"They are the strongest," Cain murmured to himself. "And they have proven their loyalty beyond doubt. If I choose them, they will not fail me."
The eyes of the Scarlet King glowed with iron determination as he prepared to continue his work.
---
The incursions into the World of the Root had followed a precise rhythm. Every two weeks, without fail, the Nine Empyren Suns Alliance launched another assault. The interval was carefully chosen—long enough for their warriors to recover, but short enough to prevent the World of the Root from fully healing the damage it sustained during the last incursion.
Yet this time, something was different.
Two weeks passed.
