chapter 22:

Juna's heart was pounding as she approached the massive gates of the Palace of Edondel. She was here to meet with the council of elders, and the weight of her mission sat heavily on her shoulders.

As she passed through the gates and into the courtyard, she couldn't help but feel awed by the grandeur of the palace. The intricate carvings on the walls, the delicate arches and columns, the glistening fountains—all spoke of a civilization far more advanced than any she had ever known.

Juna took a deep breath and straightened her back, determined to meet the council with confidence. She walked down the long hallway, flanked by towering statues of the great heroes of Edondel, and finally reached the council chamber.

The room was circular, with high windows that let in the afternoon sun. At the center of the room sat a long, polished table, surrounded by twelve ornately carved chairs. Juna took her place at the foot of the table and waited for the elders to arrive.

One by one, they entered the room, each one wearing the traditional robes of their office. Juna recognized several of them, including the wise and kindly Elder Tarek, who had been her mentor when she was a young apprentice.

The council took their seats, and Juna began to speak. She explained the urgent situation in the northern provinces, where a band of raiders had been attacking villages and pillaging towns. She presented her plan to rally the army and strike back at the raiders, and asked for the council's support.

There was a long moment of silence as the council deliberated. Juna waited, her heart in her throat, praying that they would see the urgency of the situation and act quickly.

Finally, Elder Tarek spoke. "Juna, we recognize the danger that these raiders pose to our people. We will support your plan, and send our finest soldiers to aid you in the fight. But we must also consider the long-term implications of this conflict. We cannot allow our people to be drawn into a cycle of violence and revenge. We must find a way to restore peace and stability to the region, without resorting to bloodshed."

Juna nodded solemnly. She knew that Tarek was right, and that a lasting peace would require more than just a military victory. But for now, her focus was on stopping the raiders and protecting her people.

With the council's support secured, Juna left the chamber and hurried to the barracks to begin her preparations. She knew that the road ahead would be long and treacherous, but she was ready for whatever lay ahead. For she was Juna, hero of Edondel, and she would stop at nothing to defend her homeland.