"Because every prism Dawn produces weakens her." The Red Mother replied. "A single powerful mage with a tower is much more valuable than many weaker mages. Remember that Sunrise amplifies Dawn's power so the weaker she becomes the less the amplification effect is going to matter in a battle of this scale."
"I bring good news as well." Simara chimed in. "I have no children of my own so I contacted my old rival. Aylen will come with us so you can add another white core to our forces."
"How did you convince her?" Lith was impressed.
"Mother won't interfere directly, but she gave me permission to offer Aylen a pardon. Also, I mentioned your offer to reward with the Ears whoever saves Solus and promised Aylen she can keep whatever she can grab in the Fringe.
"Elves, Yggdrasill wood, books, anything but Solus and her possessions. Before you ask, she gave me her word."
"That's reassuring." Lith said and everyone but Jirni nodded.
