Decision

"What does 'soon' mean?" I asked.

"Likely tomorrow morning," was the reply.

"Yeah, that's quite soon."

"Convey your decision through Captain Shearer," Drevolan instructed. "Just give him the message for me. Don't reach out to me psychically; I want this to go through the proper channels."

"Why, in the name of the Gods?"

"Because that's how it's done."

"Alright," I said, standing up. "Have a productive council."

"Do you need someone to guide you back?" Drevolan asked.

"No, thank you."

I exited the tent. The night had turned cold and dark; I regretted not bringing a cloak. Opal guided me back, and I was relieved to find the warmth of the fire; it felt like home.

"Well," Fael inquired, "Did you see her?"

"Alyssra? Yes."

"And?"

"There's likely to be a battle tomorrow. A significant one."

"Did you receive another mission?" Speransky asked.