They spent the next hour coordinating. Messages sent to border forces. Intelligence carefully positioned to reach Church officials. Timing orchestrated to create maximum disruption at exactly the right moment.
By early afternoon, reports started flooding in – major demon force spotted, moving toward a farming settlement, Church assistance urgently needed.
Perfect timing.
Damien watched from his study window as Church bells rang emergency summons. Clergy scrambled. The Saintess was called to lead defensive response.
The examination would be postponed.
Elara was safe. Temporarily.
[CRISIS MANAGEMENT: Successful]
[Elara's exposure prevented (temporary)]
[Church suspicious but lacking proof]
[WARNING: This is delay, not solution]
A knock at his door interrupted his satisfaction.
"Young master?" Margaret's voice carried concern. "Captain Seria Thornwood is here. She's demanding to see you. Says it's urgent."
