The room fell into a heavy silence, punctuated only by the soft rustle of fabric and the occasional creak of wooden furniture. Each member of the group absorbed the weight of Miriam's predicament, their expressions a mix of concern and determination.
Zande was the first to break the silence, her voice steady as she proposed, "We should gather intel on where he might be holding Miriam's mother. Check nearby towns or abandoned buildings."
Amia nodded in agreement, adding, "Maybe someone in those towns has seen or heard something. We can discreetly ask around without drawing too much attention."
Dedari leaned forward, his brow furrowed in thought. "What about using our network of allies? They might have information that could help. But then, Is Morel his real name?"
Everyone turned to Miriam at Dedari's question.
Miriam's mind raced with memories of her encounters with her master, of her trainings with him, of his twisted love for her mother.
