Emberlyn quietly stepped out of the room as the girls continued to surround Aether from every direction. Their excitement, affection, and sheer energy had taken over the space, and Emberlyn—being the more reserved type—chose not to intrude.
She gave a small sigh, brushing her hair back behind her ear as she gently closed the door behind her.
Sometimes, it was better to give space... besides, who knew what might happen if she stayed?
And truthfully, she wasn't ready to witness the full horror—or embarrassment—that could unfold in a room filled with lovestruck girls clinging to a man like that.
As she stepped further into the hallway, she spotted Maelona and Liora up ahead. They stood by the main entrance, greeting the elders of various tribes with grace and dignity, their expressions calm but alert. Despite the lingering pressure from the Empire's recent disaster, they carried themselves with unwavering poise.
Gathering her nerves, Emberlyn approached them.
