Rebuilding Trust with Admiral Draven

Her next stop was Admiral Draven—a leader whose support had been pivotal in the earlier stages of the war. But even Draven's unwavering loyalty had been tested by the situation with the core.

Draven stood by a large window, staring out at the stars. His back was straight, his posture one of a man who had seen countless battles but who, for the first time, seemed unsure of his next steps.

Lena approached him slowly, her voice cautious. "Admiral, I know the loss of the core has left us all questioning what's next. But I need you now more than ever."

Draven turned to face her, his features sharp as ever but softened by concern. "You've always been a leader I could count on, Lena. But I'm not going to lie—what we did with the core... it feels like we betrayed ourselves. The war isn't just a fight against the Rhytil anymore. It's a fight for who we are as an Alliance."

Lena nodded, understanding the depth of his words. "I know, Draven. I feel it too. But the Rhytil are still out there, and they won't wait for us to figure this out. We have to act now. The Alliance needs a leader who doesn't hide behind power. And I'm here to prove I can still be that leader."

The silence stretched between them for several moments. Finally, Draven gave a slight nod, his expression unreadable but his eyes softening. "We all have our doubts, Lena. But if you truly believe in this new path you're forging, then I'll follow you."

Lena smiled, a weight lifting from her chest. She had gained Tavon's trust, and now Draven's—two of the most influential figures in the Alliance were with her. It wasn't the easy victory she'd hoped for, but it was progress.