In the Southern Battlefield, the cold air bit at the faces of the Aesir soldiers as they went about their daily routines. The garrison was abuzz with activity—men and women training, fortifying defences, and preparing for any potential conflict. Commander Einar, a stern and experienced leader, observed the preparations with a critical eye, ensuring that everything was in order.

  The sound of approaching footsteps caught Commander Einar’s attention. He turned to see a group of Aesir soldiers escorting a recently captured prisoner of war (PoW) from the Heavenly Court. The PoW was dishevelled and weary but held an air of defiance that intrigued Einar.

  "Bring him to me," Commander Einar ordered.

  The soldiers complied, leading the PoW to a makeshift interrogation room within the garrison. Sergeant Thorin, a grizzled veteran with a no-nonsense demeanour, joined Einar as they prepared to question their captive.

  "Let's see what he knows," Einar said, his voice low and determined.

  The PoW was forced to sit on a wooden chair, his hands bound in front of him. Despite his ragged appearance, he met Einar’s gaze without flinching.

  "Your name?" Einar demanded.

  "Liang," the PoW replied, his voice steady.

  "Well, Liang," Einar began, "you’re going to tell us everything you know about the Heavenly Court’s movements and strategies. Start talking."

  Liang remained silent for a moment, then sighed. "You think you’ve won because you captured me? You have no idea what’s coming."

  Einar raised an eyebrow. "Enlighten me."

  Liang's eyes burned with a mixture of anger and pride. "The commoners of the Heavenly Court are rising. They’ve learned to wield magic—magic that was once the sole domain of the nobles. They challenge the old order, and they are winning."

  Sergeant Thorin leaned in, his interest piqued. "Magic among commoners? How is that possible?"

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  Liang smirked. "If it wasn't for the Heavenly Court being distracted with the commoners learning magic, how could you have overwhelmed our garrison? Your victory here is just a small part of a much larger struggle."

  Einar and Thorin exchanged a glance, the weight of Liang's words sinking in. The implications were staggering.

  As the interrogation continued, Liang revealed more details about the rebellion. He spoke of how the commoners had organized, how they had begun to teach each other magic in secret, and how the nobles were struggling to contain the uprising. The tension in the room was palpable as Einar and Thorin absorbed the information.

  Unbeknownst to them, similar scenes were playing out in other Aesir garrisons along the Southern Battlefield. Recently captured PoWs and intercepted communications were revealing the same story: the Heavenly Court was being overwhelmed due to the rebellion of commoners wielding magic. In each location, the rumours spread quickly, creating a ripple effect among the soldiers.

  Whispers of commoners wielding magic and challenging the nobles’ rule became widespread. The soldiers’ reactions were mixed. Some were intrigued by the possibility of wielding magic themselves, while others were fearful of the chaos such an uprising could bring.

  Commander Einar sensed the growing tension and unease among his troops. He called a meeting with his senior officers to address the situation.

  "We need to maintain order," Einar began. "The rumours are spreading fast, and we cannot afford to have dissent or desertions. Sergeant Thorin, what do you suggest?"

  Sergeant Thorin, ever the pragmatist, nodded. "Increase patrols and tighten security. Make it clear that any sign of unrest will be dealt with swiftly. We need to show strength and control."

  Einar agreed. "We'll do that. But we also need reinforcements and guidance from the Northern Aesir’s Stronghold. I will send a message requesting additional support."

  He looked around the room, his gaze firm. "Keep a close watch on the troops. Address any signs of unrest immediately. We must remain united and focused."

  As the meeting concluded, Einar took a moment to reflect on the gravity of the situation. He knew that the coming days would test the loyalty and resolve of his soldiers. The balance of power was shifting, and they needed to be prepared for whatever came next.

  The chapter ended with Commander Einar gazing out over the Southern Battlefield, aware of the impending challenges. The scene shifted to various garrisons, showing soldiers huddled around campfires, quietly discussing the rumours and speculating about the future. The flickering flames cast shadows on their faces, reflecting the uncertainty and tension that hung in the air.

  The wind howled through the night, carrying with it the echoes of change. The Northern Aesir would need to navigate these turbulent waters carefully, balancing their own stability with the potential to exploit the Heavenly Court's internal strife. The stage was set for the coming conflict, and the stakes had never been higher.