Edrick, however, was not amused. "Listen well, boy. This isn't some dungeon beast you can cut down with fire and ice. Ouroboros doesn't fight fair. They strike from the shadows, turn allies into traitors, rot cities from within. If you underestimate them, you'll drag this entire guild into the abyss."
Alex met his sharp gaze without flinching. "Then we'll have to make sure Velria doesn't fall into that abyss."
Edrick studied him for a long moment, then finally grunted. "You've got guts. I'll give you that." He turned to the room, raising his voice. "But this victory is not without cost! Four brave adventurers fell in that battle. We honor them tonight, and tomorrow—we prepare. Velria will not bow to Ouroboros!"
The guild hall roared in response, mugs lifted, fists slammed, shouts echoing to the rafters. Some voices carried grief, others defiance, but all were united in the heat of the moment.
