Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1365

Yuvan was unaware that this so-called negotiation was merely a ruse. He was to be handed over and used as bait to lure Thomas' army into the city.

Thomas agreed to the negotiations and went alone. Wayne also went alone, though he had his men trailing him from a distance of about 30 feet.

Wayne began his plea, explaining that most of Valken's officials, himself included, had no idea Yuvan was planning rebellion. Some were aware, but out of fear of Yuvan's power, they dared not speak out.

Thomas expressed his distrust. He insisted they had been plotting for a long time.

Thomas' stance was firm, which led Wayne to realize that Thomas had no knowledge that Nicholas was involved in this matter. He also couldn't possibly know about the reinforcement that was on the way.

In addition to confirming this fact through Thomas' attitude, Wayne also placed a lot of trust in Clifford. This trust and respect came from Clifford's ability to convince the Spencer family. Wayne and Yuvan had been trying to gain the Spencer family's cooperation for a long time, but they couldn't get Eustace to budge.

When they first chose to betray Yuvan, it was because they could see Nicholas' strength when he had managed this feat with Clifford.

As a strategist, Wayne aligned himself with those who seemed poised to win. Yuvan had already been sidelined—remaining loyal to him was a path to ruin.

At this point, the negotiation was no longer the main issue. Both sides wanted to enter the city, each with their own schemes.

Wayne glanced at the sky, noting the time. Clifford had insisted they lure Thomas' forces into the city before nightfall, and there was still a little over two hours to go.

So, the negotiation didn't drag on for too long. Wayne agreed to hand over Yuvan, but only on the condition that Thomas kept his word—once back in the capital, he must request leniency for those who had surrendered.

In reality, they had no choice but to hand Yuvan over. Doing so would weaken Thomas' vigilance. With no leader, Thomas would assume that Valken's forces were fractured. After all, they had been surrounded for so many days, and Yuvan's forces were likely beginning to lose morale.

Once inside, Wayne and the others could mount a coordinated attack and eliminate Thomas and his men. It wouldn't take more than two days to wipe them all out.

After the negotiations, Wayne returned to the city tower.

Yuvan and Harvey were still being held captive. The troops outside, using long-range binoculars, were watching closely. If the captives were released too soon, their deception would be exposed.

Upon seeing Wayne return, Yuvan quickly asked, "Well? Did he agree?"

Wayne lifted his calm, unflinching gaze and replied, "I've agreed to temporarily hand you over to them."