While there was pause for thought, Gallus added. "I'll mention that we might send a scout simply to see if the gas has gone. If it still lingers there is no point the the exercise at all. One person with the ring retrieving bodies is infeasible."

Gallus cast his eyes to Ri'vashi again. "It's just a guess, but with how the gas was used in the assault...in barrels hefted out instead of those flasks that they had the suppression gas in, it might be the case that they have none left to use. If we go out in force, they would have to be completely insane not to run away immediately." His head turned to Meesei again. "They're outnumbered, outmatched. However, they would expect us. And they may still have Do'rhajul."

[hr]
Fendros didn't flinch. He wasn't going to let Ahnasha make him lie for the sake of winning an argument. He did not look away as he spoke. "You know that I would do anything to protect you and Rhazii," he said as he angled his head forward. "But this isn't about me, Ahna. Meesei warned you against going down a dark path. You knew what that meant, didn't you? Look me in the eyes this time." Fendros turned his shoulders to face Ahnasha better. He spoke quickly, trying to get a handle on the conversation before it could escalate further. "Tell me you won't go down that path. You might know it better than I do, but I'm scared that if we're not careful, you'll end up treading upon it without knowing. So tell me. Please, just promise me."