Bab 13: The Gathering Storm
Hanno stood upon the high walls of Carthage, gazing out at the bustling city below. The once-vibrant streets were now filled with an undercurrent of unease. Rumors of an imminent threat from a neighboring power had spread throughout the city, stoking fear and uncertainty among its inhabitants.
As Hanno made his way through the crowded streets, he observed the growing tension etched on the faces of the people he passed. Merchants hurriedly closed their shops, mothers clutched their children tightly, and whispers of war filled the air.
Hanno's footsteps echoed in the grand corridors of the Senate, where influential figures convened to discuss the pressing matters at hand. The chamber was abuzz with heated debates and anxious voices, as council members exchanged concerns and strategies to counter the approaching forces.
Taking his place among the council, Hanno listened intently to the arguments being presented. The council was divided, with some urging for immediate preparations for defense, while others advocated for diplomatic negotiations to avoid conflict.
It was in this charged atmosphere that a hooded figure slipped into the chamber, catching the attention of Hanno and the other council members. The figure approached cautiously, the air thick with anticipation.
Removing the hood, the informant revealed a weathered face, lines etched deep with the weight of knowledge. The council members leaned forward, their eyes wide with curiosity and apprehension.
"Forgive the intrusion, esteemed council members," the informant began, their voice hushed yet resolute. "I bring grave tidings. Our scouts have uncovered intelligence regarding the approaching fleet. They speak of a naval force like none we have encountered before."
A gasp of surprise swept through the council chamber. Hanno's eyes narrowed as he leaned forward, his voice a low rumble. "Tell us, informant, what have you discovered?"
The informant cleared their throat, their words weighed with urgency. "The approaching navy is said to be vast and formidable, boasting ships larger and more advanced than any in our own fleet. They possess technology that grants them an advantage in naval warfare, including advanced weaponry and reinforced hulls."
The council members exchanged worried glances, the gravity of the situation settling upon them. The informant continued, their voice steady but laced with concern.
"Their numbers are estimated to be Higher then our own fleet, comprising swift and well-armed vessels. Our informants suggest that their intentions are not peaceful. They mean to assert dominance over our lands and seize control of our vital sea routes."
Silence fell over the council chamber as the weight of the revelation settled upon them. The threat was far greater than they had anticipated. Hanno, his mind racing with the implications, spoke with determination.
"We must act swiftly and decisively. Our naval forces must be bolstered, our defenses fortified. Seek out our allies, rally their support, and reinforce our readiness for this impending conflict. Carthage's survival hangs in the balance, and we shall not falter."
The council members nodded in agreement, their resolve rekindled by the informant's revelation. They would face this new threat head-on, leveraging their collective strength and strategizing to overcome the seemingly insurmountable challenge that lay ahead.
As the discussions continued, a figure dressed in senatorial robes entered the chamber, a deceptive smile gracing their lips. This figure, unknown to the council, was a member of the Obsidian Order, cunningly disguised as a trusted council member.
The imposter approached Hanno's mentor, General Hamilcar, a respected and seasoned commander. General Hamilcar had guided Hanno's path, shaping him into the skilled and strategic leader he had become. However, his absence from the council's discussions had not gone unnoticed.
The imposter's voice carried a sinister tone as they addressed the council, their gaze fixed upon General Hamicar. "Esteemed council members, it is imperative that we assign a capable general to lead our forces in this critical time. I propose that General Hamilcar, with his vast experience and tactical prowess, assume the role of acting general."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the council chamber, recognizing General Hamilcar's qualifications. However, Hanno felt a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. Something about the imposter's proposal felt wrong, a dark intuition whispering caution in his ear.
Hanno's eyes darted around the chamber, searching for any sign of deception. It was then that he noticed a subtle glint in the imposter's eyes, a flicker of malice that sent shivers down his spine.
Before Hanno could voice his concerns, General Hamilcar rose from his seat, his expression a mix of surprise and uncertainty. "I am honored by the council's trust," he began, his voice measured, "but I must confess my reservations. Hanno has proven himself time and again, demonstrating unparalleled skill and leadership. He is the natural choice to lead our forces."
The imposter's facade faltered for a moment, a hint of frustration crossing their features. However, they quickly regained their composure, their voice dripping with false concern. "Ah, General Hamilcar, I understand your sentiment. But in these troubled times, it is necessary for a seasoned commander like yourself to assume this responsibility. Carthage's fate hangs in the balance, and we must ensure we have the most experienced hand at the helm."
Hanno's blood ran cold as realization dawned upon him. The Order had infiltrated the council, seeking to manipulate their decisions and sow discord among their ranks. It was a dangerous game they played, one that threatened to undermine the unity of Carthage in its hour of need.
With a surge of determination, Hanno stepped forward, his voice resolute. "I must object, esteemed council members. General Hamilcar is my mentor and a trusted advisor. His experience is invaluable, but so is his guidance. To deny him the opportunity to serve as my counsel in this crucial time would be a grave mistake."
The council members looked to one another, uncertainty and suspicion clouding their faces. The imposter's disguise began to unravel, their true nature revealed to all. Panic spread through the chamber as council members realized the depth of the Order's infiltration.
In a swift motion, Hanno drew his sword, his eyes locked with the imposter's. "Your deceit ends here," he declared, his voice ringing with determination. "Carthage will not fall victim to your machinations. You shall be exposed for the traitor you are."
The imposter, their true allegiance revealed, lunged at Hanno with a dagger in hand. The chamber erupted into chaos as Hanno defended himself, parrying the attacks with skill and precision. Council members and guards rushed to Hanno's aid, subduing the imposter and bringing an end to the attempted assassination.
With the threat neutralized, Hanno turned to face the council once more. "We must purge the Order's influence from our midst," he declared, his voice commanding. "Carthage cannot afford to have its decisions tainted by their hidden agendas. We must stand united against the approaching storm."
The council members, shaken but resolute, nodded in agreement. The battle for Carthage's survival had taken an unexpected turn, revealing the shadows lurking within their own walls. But Hanno and his allies were prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead, both from without and within.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone