The figures stepped forward cautiously, revealing themselves from the shadows. Lysandra moved at the forefront, her dark hair framing a face hardened by the trials of war, eyes alight with a blend of determination and vulnerability. She surveyed the assembled soldiers, lingering on James and Elira before addressing the crowd.
"We don't come to you as enemies," she began, her voice steady yet earnest. "We stand at the precipice of a great darkness, and it threatens not just the borders of our territories but the very fabric of our existence."
James exchanged a glance with Elira, who raised her brow slightly, silently urging him to proceed with caution. "You expect us to trust you after all that has happened?" he challenged, his voice resolute.
