Leonel looked from Darenn to Kalista, then Aerin and Auron. "And if we fail again? If we wait too long?"
"Then we fail together, not by scattering," Auron said simply.
Everyone stared at him.
He shrugged. "What? You're all being dramatic. The situation is obvious. If we tell the wrong person, we lose control—and maybe Aranea—for good. If we move as one, we at least stand a chance."
Aerin nodded firmly. "We're going after her. That's not a question. The only question is how."
Elenea exhaled slowly. Her legs still shook, but she stood. "Then… we search. We follow any trace. We look everywhere until we find her."
Aleck stepped closer, his draconic arm clenching. "He used light and dark magic to take her. That means Aerin and Auron are our best chance at tracking him again."
Aerin's expression turned serious. "We'll need rest. Our reserves are drained from the labyrinth collapsing."
