Far from the chaos of the alliance's preparations, the Rhytil were waiting, watching. Tal'Karr and Rhi'Taal sat together in the war room aboard the Rhytil'Vox, analyzing the movements of the alliance's fleet.Rhi'Taal's eyes glinted with satisfaction. "It's only a matter of time before Lena cracks. She's becoming more and more dependent on the core. And when she does, it will be her downfall."Tal'Karr leaned back, his fingers steepled in front of him. "She's strong, but she's not invincible. The core is a double-edged sword. It gives her power, yes, but it also has a hold on her that she doesn't yet understand. It is a tool, but it is also a weapon that can turn on its wielder."Rhi'Taal grinned, his sharp teeth visible. "You're right. She's playing right into our hands. If she keeps using it, she'll burn herself out. And when that happens, we'll be there to seize it. But not just yet. We need to make her question everything—her purpose, her leadership, even her alliances."Tal'Karr nodded slowly. "We'll increase the pressure. Send in our infiltrators. Start spreading rumors about Lena's growing reliance on the core. Make sure the factions in the alliance know. We'll push them to doubt her, to weaken her resolve. The more she relies on it, the more we can control her."