As the night deepened over Vaelenor, a veil of stillness settled across the city. The flickering lanterns cast warm glows against the stone walls, creating a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within Amara's heart. Despite the council's tentative acceptance of her warnings, she could feel the anxiety simmering just beneath the surface. The weight of her new role as keeper of the balance was heavy, a mantle she had never expected to wear.
Amara walked through the cobblestone streets, her mind racing with the implications of their discussions. Kirin fell into step beside her, his presence a steadying force against her swirling thoughts.
"Are you alright?" he asked, his voice low and soothing.
She glanced up at him, forcing a small smile. "I'm just…thinking. About everything that lies ahead."
"The council meeting went better than I expected," Kirin replied, a hint of optimism in his tone. "They listened, Amara. That's a start."
