Year of the Emperor 279, Samhain
To: Commandant Rethar, Office of Imperial Intelligence
The city is unguarded in all but name. The western wall has collapsed in three places; no repairs underway. The eastern gate remains ceremonial—guarded by men in polished bronze who have not seen combat in years. The palace garrison drills twice weekly, mostly for show. I estimate fewer than 300 trained fighters within the capital proper.
King Theodor continues to host garden salons. I attended one under assumed identity (merchant patron of the Lyceum). He recited verses from Eremos, and his daughter with her cousins preformed a play about a fairy queen named Una. No mention of troop movements. No urgency. When asked about Hesan presence in the north, he replied: “If they mean to strike, they will do so with honor. I respect that.” His court laughed. I did not.
The Lyceum of Harmonies remains active, though its funding is strained. I recommend its preservation post-occupation. It may prove useful for cultural assimilation or morale management. The scholars are brilliant, if naïve. One recited a passage from Aionitita that likened discord to divine necessity. Dangerous thinking, but elegantly phrased.
Princess Elara is present. Young, educated, and largely unguarded. She speaks little in public but writes often. I intercepted a poem—melancholic, metaphorical, and politically inert. Still, she may become a symbol if allowed to flee. Recommend containment or quiet relocation.
Final note: The city is beautiful. Even in decay. I walked the colonnades at dusk and heard music from three directions. It is a place that believes in meaning, even as it forgets survival. I advise swift action. They will not resist. They will mourn.
—Verrin
Embedded Agent, Sphaira Cell