Fendros emerged from the meeting with a slight hurry in his steps. Though in a much less exhausted state today, he was eager to find some time for family. He greeted Ahnasha in good spirits.

"My father?" Fendros repeated over the daytime noise in the square. But he knew after a second that was what Ahnasha asked. Fendros turned aside and sighed through his nose. The idea had been rolling around in his mind behind all the duties of leadership, unresolved for old fears.

Fendros answered after a moment. "I have not spoken to him on a personal level since before the battle. I really could not tell you how I think he sees us now."

He continued to hesitate.