The tension in the air was palpable as Seraphina paced the length of the war room. The council had gathered once again, their faces etched with worry. The news of Lucian's growing army had cast a long shadow over their hopes for peace.

Thalia approached, her brow furrowed. "Seraphina, we need a plan. We can't just wait for Lucian to strike again."

Seraphina nodded, her mind racing. "You're right. We need to take the fight to him, but we have to be smart about it. We can't afford to make any mistakes."

Magnus leaned forward, his eyes fierce. "We need to strike at the heart of his operation. If we...