I stop pacing, turning to face her. "And what about the civilians? The families?"
Brinda's eyes harden. "They've shown no mercy to our people. Why should we extend that courtesy to them?"
Her words hang in the air, heavy with the weight of countless losses. I feel the old anger stirring in my chest, memories of fallen comrades flashing through my mind.
"When do you want this done?" I ask, my voice low.
"As soon as possible," Brinda replies. "We can't give them time to strengthen their defenses further." When I don't answer she adds, "We all know that you are the best warrior. You're sneaky, smart, and have a sun glamour."
An Elder next to her mutters, "Not to mention you won't get attached."
The Matriarch glares at him, but I cut in. "What does that mean?"
Brinda huffs before turning to me. "You are…apathetic. You know that."
I can't help but smirk at Brinda's assessment. "Sneaky, smart, and apathetic? You really know how to flatter a guy, Matriarch."
Brinda doesn't rise to my bait. Her green eyes bore into mine, unwavering. "This isn't a joke, Cassius. We need someone who can get in, complete the mission, and get out without letting emotions cloud their judgment."
I shrug, my wings rustling slightly with the movement. "And you think I'm your vrakken?"
"We know you are," she says, her tone leaving no room for argument. "Your sun glamour is unparalleled. You can blend in seamlessly with the dark elves. And your... detachment... will be an asset."
I consider her words, turning them over in my mind. It's true, I've never been one for getting caught up in the drama of it all. The war, the politics, the endless cycle of violence - it all seems so pointless. But maybe that's exactly why I'm suited for this.
"Alright," I say finally, my voice flat. "I'll do it. Not like I have anything better to do anyway."
Brinda nods, a flicker of relief passing over her face. "Good. We'll brief you on the details tomorrow. For now, get some rest."
I turn to leave, but her voice stops me at the door.
"Cassius," she says, and I glance back over my shoulder. "Be careful out there."
I give her a sardonic smile. "Aren't I always?"
As I walk out of the Council room, I can't help but feel a tiny spark of... something. Interest? Anticipation? It's been a long time since I've felt anything close to excitement. Maybe this mission will provide a welcome distraction from the monotony of existence.
Or maybe it'll just be another pointless errand in an endless war. Either way, I'll do what needs to be done. It's not like I have anything to lose.
