The chamber remained silent for a moment, the weight of the Third Shadow Corps' failure lingering in the air.
Then, a new voice cut through the stillness.
"Well, that was disappointing," the Eighth Elder remarked, her tone casual yet laced with something sharper beneath. "But let's not dwell on failures. We have more pressing matters to discuss."
A few heads turned in her direction, sensing where the conversation was about to lead.
"Tell me," she continued, her fingers tapping lightly against the table. "Are we proceeding with the kidnapping this year? Or are we delaying the plan yet again?"
The question sent a ripple of interest through the chamber. Some leaned in slightly, others remained motionless, but all eyes were now focused on the First Elder—awaiting his response.