"We can encourage greater participation in resource gathering," Milo finished, catching on. "People will be more willing to contribute if they believe Elio is actively working to improve things."
"Even though he's not here," Selene added quietly, for their ears only.
"That's exactly why we should do it," Lucien said. "The truth about his absence would only cause panic. But this? This gives people hope, and more importantly, gives them the means to act on that hope."
Nessa pulled out another set of figures. "With the increased mana pool, potion obtention could be accelerated significantly. We could potentially prepare a potion in just a day or two."
Lila, who had been tense throughout the discussion, suddenly focused. "A day or two?"
"Which means," Selene said carefully, "we could have you properly equipped for level 20 very soon. Much safer than rushing in unprepared."
"I can go now with no…" Lila began, but Valeria cut her off.
