The discussion continued, with various clan heads offering suggestions, countering others' proposals, and debating strategy with the intensity of those who understood their species' survival might be at stake.
Jorghan continued to listen, his silence becoming noticeable. Several clan heads glanced his way, perhaps expecting input from someone who'd just demonstrated unprecedented combat capabilities, but he gave no indication he planned to speak.
The sun tracked across the sky, visible through the crystal walls, its angle shifting as afternoon moved toward evening. The discussion grew more heated at times and more frustrated at others as the Council grappled with a problem that had no easy solutions.
Finally, as the sun touched the horizon and the chamber began filling with the golden-orange light of sunset, Madayanti raised her hand for silence.
