Chapter 82

• The evening air was thick with tension as Xander entered Amara’s quarters. She sat at her desk, the artifact resting beside her, its faint glow casting long shadows on the walls. Parchments and maps cluttered the surface in front of her, each detailing strategies and defenses for their fractured alliance. Amara’s shoulders were slumped, but her focus was razor-sharp as she studied the plans, the strain on her face undeniable.
• “Amara,” Xander began, his voice steady but firm. “We need to talk.”
• “Not now,” she replied without looking up, her tone clipped. “There’s too much to do.”