Chapter Fifty-Nine

In the Rose Palace war room, Mikail debriefs after Fallador’s audience, uncertain of Fallador’s loyalties but relieved he is contained. He convenes Fremo, Teo, Calier, Sora, Aeri, Royo, and Tiyung to plan the response to Wei’s fleet.

Fremo reports the warships are skirting Hallan and will reach the Strait of Teeth by sunset, likely targeting Tamneki rather than Gaya. Relying on Yusanian tactics, Mikail proposes a one-bell assault from the Port of Charm to catch the fleet asleep, pull King Joon’s ship close, board with a small team, and kill Joon while avoiding open battle with Weian steel.

When Royo questions the small force, Mikail explains speed and surprise will neutralize the skeleton crew. Teo and Calier request to serve as personal guards; Mikail, weighing risks and their loyalties, accepts and tasks Fremo to bring six trusted rebels. If the plan fails, Mikail vows to sink Joon’s ship, prompting Sora to warn about losing the relics; Mikail prioritizes ending Joon regardless.

As they finalize, Mikail’s convulsions flare but he hides his weakness. After the others depart, he asks Sora to keep Tiyung at the palace. He argues Tiyung must signal from the watchtower if Berm’s soldiers move or if the fleet turns toward Jeul, and that Fallador must be watched. Sora objects but, seeing the stakes and Mikail’s resolve, agrees to help convince Tiyung and remain behind.