"Well," Avtis said, his voice cutting through the chamber like a drawn blade. "We can save the small talk for another time because right now, we have a problem and a serious one."
All eyes turned to the flame representing him.
"Ylerias," he said, gaze sharp. "That creature, Rhaziem. What did you observe?"
Ylerias clenched her fists, her face twisting with loathing. "He was far too fast, a vulgar beast, and strong, unnaturally so."
Avtis nodded once. "Yes, but did you notice anything else?"
Ylerias hesitated. A flicker of shame crossed her face.
"I… I'm sorry. I let my anger cloud my judgment. I ignored the details I should have."
Avtis said nothing, but Oena stepped up, her voice calm but firm, to defend Ylerias. "She faced a deeply personal provocation. In such circumstances, clarity is difficult. She held the line."
Avis didn't reply. Instead, he turned to the next.
"And you, Xuelong? What did you sense?"
