The meeting continued as if nothing had happened, but the air in the room was thick with tension. The witches, already wary of Aldric, looked at him with renewed mistrust, their gazes sharp and guarded.
Aldric could feel their silent judgment, but it barely registered with him. He hadn't come here to be liked, nor to bend to anyone's will. He was here because Islinda was here, and for the sliver of pity he felt for the innocent fae citizens caught in the recent attacks. If it were up to him, Astaria could solve its own problems without his help.
The general stood at the head table, his voice commanding as he laid out their strategy.