There was a lot of weight on the days after the council's secret meeting. Despite all of their accomplishments, the rifts in their togetherness posed a threat to their union. Elara sat by the fireplace in the stone room that had become her haven, gazing into the flaming fire with a barrage of doubts in her mind.
They had never been on a mission like the one ahead. In addition to strategy and bravery, it required a unity of purpose that now appeared dangerously elusive.
Draven walked in without warning, his face glum. "Elara, we must speak."
She motioned for him to sit while nodding. "You've been anticipated."
Draven's sharp eyes locked with hers. The council is split. Our allies wonder if the possible benefits of this mission exceed the costs. Some believe that we are acting more out of desperation than strategy as we rush into the unknown.
Elara let out a sigh, her shoulders heaving under the weight of his words. "Do they fail to perceive the need? Everything we have worked for will
