The Attack on Crisal

Standing by the portals, the three women turned to look at the men they were leaving behind. Their husbands stood at a distance, their expressions unreadable, their presence both silent and heavy. Though none of them spoke, the desire to intervene was evident in their eyes.

Alora hesitated. She understood their concern, their silent struggle to let them go.

"Would you like to come with us?" she asked suddenly.

Orla and Eugenie turned to her in horror, their eyes nearly bulging out of their sockets.

The three men, however, stepped forward in unison. Their eagerness was evident—perhaps too evident.

Alora lifted a finger, setting her conditions. "Promise me that you will stay by the portal. You will fight no one. And if there is even the slightest hint of danger, you will leave."

Reluctantly, knowing this was the only concession they would be allowed, the three men nodded.