***AUTHOR'S NOTE: SORRY I'VE BEEN DEATHLY UNDER THE WEATHER AND LOOKING AT A SCREEN TOO LONG MAKES ME SICK. I AM GRATFEUL TO ALL OF YOUR PATIENCE. THIS SICKNESS IS KICKING MY ASS ***
Arya thought to herself 'I should have practiced the words. But how does anyone prepare to tell a mother her child is lost to their enemy? How do I tell Kalvin that the woman he loves is beyond our reach? How do I stand before these people, my friends, and say: "We have abandoned you?" when I know it will feel like I have abandoned them myself?'
The planning tent was large enough to hold an entire war council. Lanterns cast long shadows on maps and plans, that covered the oak table. Outside, wind whirled in restless gusts.
