Helena stood before the Assembly, the air thick with tension as the Elders glared down at her from their elevated seats. The grand chamber, with its high ceilings and walls lined with ancient relics, felt more oppressive than ever. She could feel their disappointment radiating toward her like a tangible force, and it took every ounce of her willpower to keep her composure.
"Helena," Elder Graves began, his voice heavy with a mixture of sternness and regret. "The Elders have reviewed your report, and frankly, we are displeased. We expected better from you, especially after all that the Assembly has invested in your training and advancement."
Helena's jaw clenched, but she nodded, accepting the reprimand. She had known this was coming. Her actions on the mission had been impulsive, driven by rage rather than reason, and now she was facing the consequences.
