In the office of the head of the household, at Azureocean Castle…0

Halo sat at his desk, reviewing documents that required his approval, when there suddenly came a knock at the door.0

"Come in," he called.0

A moment later, the door opened; Fayle, Halo's third son, entered the office. The dark circles under Fayle's eyes showed just how overwhelming his workload had been. 0

Seeing that, Halo sighed and said, "I should have them fetch you an elixir. You look terrible. I'll tell Heinrich to get it for you. Don't argue and just take it."0

"…Thank you for your consideration," Fayle responded quietly.0

Elixirs served as potent tonics for those who hadn't yet awakened their mana, providing a form of energy and revitalization.0

Bowing slightly in appreciation, Fayle then asked in a low voice, "Did you receive the report?"0

Halo placed the document he had been reading aside and nodded, then said, "Yes. I heard you mobilized the forces of the Zion Kingdom at Caron's request?"0

"Yes, Father," Fayle replied.0

"I'm sure you're aware of the significant risks involved. But I won't hold you accountable unless we see a disastrous outcome," Halo said.0

Moving Zion's forces toward the borders of the empire was a risky political maneuver for anyone, even for the Leston household. And yet, Halo felt no desire to chastise Fayle. His third son didn't bear...0