Chapter 157: The Council of Scars
The first full meeting of the Conscience since the siege was not held in the cottage, nor the hall. They gathered on the repaired docks, where Aurora's patient work had finally allowed the slap of water against pilings to return, a sound now cherished instead of commonplace. The setting was deliberate. They needed to see the cove they were discussing, scars and all.
The attendees were a testament to their changed world. Kaelen, presiding, with Vale at his right hand, representing the Empire's now-permanent interest. Lyra, Aurora, Jerris, and Bren represented the network's core. Commander Ector had come from Frosthold, bringing the sharp, cold air of the north with him. And, in a wicker chair piled with blankets, sat Elara.
