Chapter 111 : The Heart's Dilemma

Ezra, always observant and wise beyond his years, interjected with a somber tone. "The puppeteers are known for their cunning and deceit. What assurance do we have that you haven't just walked into their trap?"

The room seemed to close in around Gabriel as the weight of his decision pressed down on him. He had expected their anger and disappointment, but the reality of their disillusionment was far more painful than he had imagined.

"I had to do it," Gabriel insisted, his voice filled with desperation. "The information they possess could be the key to defeating them. We're running out of time."

Xavier, still struggling to come to terms with what had transpired, shook his head. "There had to be another way, Gabriel. We've faced insurmountable odds before, and we've always found a way."