They quieted down instantly as Azel answered.
"Well… the mission wasn't bad and I got to see the Divide," he said, taking a deep breath.
His voice was calm, he wasn't trying to brag or diminish the efforts of the others.
Azariah turned toward him, one brow raised, but before the Patriarch could speak, Veyra stepped forward.
Her lips curled into a half-smile as she jabbed Azel's shoulder lightly with her fist, almost like she was trying to knock sense into him.
"Don't listen to him trying to downplay his achievements, Patriarch," she said.
Her tone had none of her usual teasing edge.
"The mission was a success, and we've been able to stop the horde. Naturally, there will be some stragglers, but they can help keep the ecosystem in check."
The way she spoke made Azel's eyes narrow slightly.
This wasn't the same Veyra who always cracked jokes at the worst possible times.
Her voice was steady, her choice of words careful, almost professional.
