Focus

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I paced the corridor outside the council chamber, my mind racing with anger and frustration. Frostbone, ever the patient companion, nuzzled me with his large head, sensing my distress. I leaned against him, trying to calm my thoughts and channel my energy into a plan.

The echo of footsteps approached, and I turned to see Nymara emerging from the meeting room. Her expression was one of concern, her eyes searching mine as she walked toward me.

"Loran," she called softly, her voice gentle but firm. "I need to talk to you."

I sighed, pushing off from Frostbone and running a hand through my hair. "I don't think there's much to discuss, Nymara. I'm going with or without their approval."

Nymara came closer, her eyes filled with empathy. "I understand your frustration. But you have to understand their position as well. They're trying to keep you safe, and they're worried about the risks."

I looked at her, my anger and hurt mingling in my gaze. "Safe? My family is out there, struggling every day, and I'm stuck here, doing nothing. I've trained for years, and I've proven myself capable. How can they expect me to just wait?"

Nymara's expression softened as she reached out and touched my arm. "You're speaking out of anger and fear. Sometimes, it's not just about being ready physically; it's about the timing and the strategy. The council has their reasons, even if they seem unjust right now."

I shook my head, the frustration still simmering beneath the surface. It's not just about strategy. It's about my family, and it's about not feeling powerless while they're out there risking everything.

"I'm wasting time here" I grumbled

Nymara took a deep breath, her gaze steady and compassionate. "Maybe there's a way to show them that you're ready without putting yourself in unnecessary danger."

I looked at her, trying to find solace in her words. "What do you suggest?"

She considered this for a moment, then said, "Perhaps you could help with a different aspect of the effort. There are many tasks beyond the front lines that need attention. You could offer strategic advice, assist with coordination, or even help train others."

I thought about her words, trying to see the potential in them. It wasn't the direct fight I had hoped for, but it was a way to contribute, a way to be involved. "And what about the southern front? Can I at least get updates on their condition?"

Nymara nodded. "I'll make sure you get regular updates. Your family is fighting hard, and they need all the support they can get. You might not be able to be on the front lines right now, but you can still play a crucial role in supporting them from here."

Her reassurance offered a sliver of hope. "I appreciate your understanding."

Nymara offered a small, reassuring smile. "You're so hot headed sometimes. Just trust us Loran."

As she turned to leave, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. It's been three years away and in all honesty I didn't want to hold much back anymore. Being at war now anything could happen today or tomorrow.

As Nymara turned to leave, I couldn't let this moment slip away without expressing how I felt. I stepped closer to her, my heart racing.

"Nymara," I began, reaching out to gently grasp her arm. "There's something I need to say."

She looked at me, her expression shifting to one of gentle curiosity. "What's on your mind?"

Taking a deep breath, I forced myself to be honest. "I've been thinking a lot about us. I realize now that my feelings for you go beyond friendship. I care about you deeply and I wanted you to know."

Before I could say more, Nymara's gaze flickered to where Kairos stood, leaning casually against the wall. My heart sank as I saw their interaction from the corner of my eye—Kairos's confident demeanor, his easy familiarity with Nymara. A wave of jealousy surged through me, and I misunderstood the situation.

"Do you feel like you need to be with him?"

Nymara's eyes widened in surprise, and she gently held my arm. "No, Loran, it's not like that at all. Kairos and I are not together. My concern is about the timing and the current situation. We both have so much on our plates right now with the war and our responsibilities."

My frustration faltered, and I searched her face for the truth. "But you're not with him?"

"No," she said firmly, shaking her head. "It's just... there's so much going on right now. We need to focus on the fight and the roles we have to play. This isn't the right time to explore anything else."

I looked at her, a mix of relief and disappointment flooding through me. "I understand. I just wanted you to know how I feel. I respect your decision, and I'll be here, focused on the fight. I hope that someday, when things are calmer, we might have a chance to talk about this again."

Nymara's expression softened, and she reached out to place a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Thank you for understanding. We both have a lot to deal with right now. Let's focus on supporting each other and getting through this."

With a final, understanding nod, she turned and walked away. I watched her go, a mix of emotions swirling inside me. While the moment hadn't unfolded as I had hoped, I respected her perspective and knew that, for now, our focus had to remain on the challenges ahead.

As I stood there, I resolved to channel my feelings into my efforts, dedicating myself to supporting the war effort and those I cared about.

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