ELRETH
Elreth stood in the Tree City, her back to the market, the trail that would lead to the royal meadow at her feet. She was gathering her courage.
She hadn't slept. Or eaten. She hadn't let herself think of anything except the next task.
After sending Aaryn to the traverse, she'd sent more guards to ensure none of the Protectors from the human world left the cave where they'd all decided to stay, then she met with the few members of the Security Council who hadn't gone to the frontline, and a couple of the elders, to determine the best way forward.
As the hours before dawn passed, she was in Council, exchanging ideas and advice. The hair on the back of her neck standing high while she waited for news of Aaryn, or the portals… and waited. But she forced herself to focus on the problem before her.