In the Villa's main hall, a pretty young woman in a pale green dress listened to the reply from the steward of the Governor's Residence.
After hearing the steward's reply, the young woman let out a helpless breath and spoke softly to the servant who had read the letter aloud.
"I understand. You may go."
The servant bowed as though granted a reprieve, then hurried out of the main hall.
Looking at the anxious faces around her, the young woman sighed helplessly again, then spoke in a calm voice.
"Since the family head is absent, these old bones of mine will have to make the decision."
At her words, everyone in the main hall looked at her with hope. The reason was simple: the young woman was the mother of the Owl Race's current chief, and its previous chief herself.
Outside the Villa, in the central command camp, Kuang Cang sat in the seat of honor with his eyes half closed, his fingers tapping lightly and rhythmically against the armrest.
Beside him, Du Bao and Sa Tong tried several times to speak, but merely opened their mouths without managing a word. Kuang Cang's ability and charisma led them to place their trust in their General.
Suddenly, a creak came from the Villa gates. At the same moment, Kuang Cang opened his eyes, rose, and stepped out of the command tent.
A young woman in a pale green dress emerged with the Villa's guards.
In an instant, her gaze passed over the orderly ranks before her and met Kuang Cang's eyes outside the command tent behind them.
Though she had already heard the news, the sight of Kuang Cang still stirred deeply conflicting emotions within her.
The young woman cupped her fist in salute.
"I was unaware of your arrival,