Satou wanted to argue more, wanted to make them see reason, but the expressions around the war room were united. This was their choice. Their decision. And nothing he said would change it.
"Call me when it gets serious," Satou said again, looking directly at Lilith. "That's all I'm asking. Don't throw your lives away out of pride when I'm right here, able to help."
Veronica let out a grunt—dismissive and final. "We won't need to. The Fallen Spires has defended itself for three centuries. We'll defend it for three more."
With that, both she and Lilith turned and walked out of the war room, heading to coordinate their forces and prepare defensive positions. Other council members followed, each one giving Satou looks that ranged from apologetic to defiant.
Soon, only Satou and Seraphine remained in the war room.
"I'm sorry," Seraphine said quietly.
Before Satou could respond, her voice echoed in his mind—telepathic communication that bypassed sound entirely.
