"It would be nice, yes," Fendros looked up to the soot-covered ceiling of dining hall and searched with his hand for Ahnasha's hand. He weaved his fingers with hers and closed his eyes with a deep sigh. "I didn't realise it until now, but this is the first time since we arrived that we can just...relax."

---

Darahil took his time seating himself. He looked around the room as if he were searching for something, but for what, he didn't say. "Thank you for accommodating my desire for keeping my opinion between us. I have some details to share, yes. We'll start with Oswall."

What followed was said in a level tone, despite Darahil's word choices. It felt like a disconnection that Darahil expressed. "What he said about himself is largely true, but it also means that he will carry his leadership style to all of whom that are not soldiers. He is not used to confiding in others, to relate to them and have them relate to him in turn. He is also rash, working off instinct and intuition. While this serves well on the battlefield with his prior experience, it does not serve operating around complex issues. You would have seen as much in his behaviour before Harriet was found guilty. Not only this, but while he broke expectations by giving a considered answer regarding his own and Vera's merits, in a supreme position, he is stubborn and often uncompromising. He is not flexible. That said, his rule would enforce a stability forged with respect and decisiveness. He is still our best military commander, and if this clan is to participate in the war, we may benefit from his leadership."

"As for Vera..." Darahil changed the angle that he held his head. It was the only expressive movement that he had given thus far. "...She is far more nurturing, and would do much better in managing the clan's internal affairs. Given the tumult of recent events, stability from her would work far better in the long term. However, she is right in saying that her feelings often affect her decisions. The difference is that she is far more open to advice, and may be kept level by sound input. If she is forced to make a difficult decision, she will do so wisely after gathering all pertinent information. That said, the loss of her husband has struck her harder than she would ever dare to admit. I fear that if she gives too much to this clan, it will wear her down. If she is selected, she will require more support than Oswall, but will, in my opinion, bring the clan safely out of the darkness of this flux with the least damage."

Darahil leaned his crutch against a nearby crate and folded his hands together in front of his chin. "In conclusion, Champion, the leadership decision will be a trade-off. Neither candidate could ever replace Jerrick completely, though he was tempered by experience and mentoring." His folded hands bent forward towards Meesei at the wrists, "Your decision must be based on the priorities you would place on this clan and the changes you would make. Know that either way, we shall stay together as a council." He lowered his hands, "Is there anything else you would have of me now?"