Tirnanog

In Ketergia, the atmosphere was tense. The grand hall of Bastion's palace was filled with the 17 Royal Knights, assembled at his command. Their gleaming armor reflected the cold, sterile light of the chamber as they knelt before their leader.

Bastion sat on his ornate throne, his imposing figure clad in resplendent white armor. His face was obscured by a helmet, leaving only his piercing, otherworldly eyes visible. He rose slowly, his voice carrying a chilling authority.

"A new threat has emerged from the darkness," Bastion began. 

"The surface is evolving. If this continues, they will wage war against us. They will destroy Ketegia and its people, Therefore, we must eliminate them"

The knights murmured in agreement. Bastion's words carried the weight of divine decree.

Descorda, a towering knight with a dark, menacing presence, raised his head. 

"Yes, my lord. It shall be done."

The knights stood as one, raising their weapons in unison. Their voices echoed in the chamber as they pledged their loyalty.

"The heavens must continue to float" Bastion declared, his voice resolute.

Alden, one of the younger knights, stood at the back of the assembly. His expression was uneasy, his brow furrowed as he processed Bastion's command. The sight of his comrades' zealous fervor only deepened his worry.

Bastion returned to his throne, resting his chin on his hand. His voice softened, carrying a note of grim determination. 

"We will eliminate one territory at a time, ensuring their numbers remain low should they ever attempt a counterattack."

He leaned back, his helmet casting a shadow over his face. 

"Flient," he commanded, "lead the first battalion toward the first territory."

Flient, the Heavenly Blade of Vow, stepped forward and bowed deeply. 

"Yes, my lord." 

Without hesitation, he turned and marched from the hall, his footsteps echoing as he led a column of knights from the castle. Their armor gleamed like sunlight as they prepared to descend upon the surface.

Bastion remained seated, his palm resting against the side of his face. Though his expression was hidden, the weight of his decisions was evident in his posture. The grand hall fell silent once more, save for the faint hum of divine power radiating from the throne.