The Gambit of Peace

A'lar would lounge in his usual chair, his head leaning back as he seemed to study the ceiling. "I feel we did less untangling of knots than we just pushed the problem down the road for a spell."
 
"If the violence stops for a time, is that not a win?" Elinari would inquire from another chair where she was reading through papers from her Feathers. "Enemy of my enemy and all that?"
 
"The cockatrice is dangerous. Maybe more so than the Council." Bliss would say. Elinari would frown at that, but not disagree with the woman.
 
A'lar would bring his gaze back down to the room. "Perhaps, or perhaps he will end up one of our dearest friends. For now, violence is halted and we have thrown our lot in with a side to see the city stabilized. We can accept that as a win."
 
"We cannot change the past, only the future." Ka'Varr would say simply.
 
A'lar would smile and point a finger at at the priest of Emorath. "Just so. Ever forward. So....The Scales of Fate will be leaving for a spell. At least a month, just with the travel time. I want to make sure we're prepared before so."
 
"Are you taking any of the Claws?" Bliss would ask with a quiet intensity, her tone implying that the answer had better not be a 'no'.
 
He'd consider her, seeming amused. "Yes, I think we should. It will help with the caravan cover. You have suggestions on who?"
 
She'd stare back at him in a way that others might be put off by, but A'lar knew meant she was calculating. After a minute she'd say. "Me, Katerina, and Garr. Gwen can keep things running here with the other five since we've no one to watch at the moment."
 
He'd nod. "Alright. I'd figure you'd want more."
 
She shrugged, "We don't have the people for more. Not while fulfilling our other duties."
 
"Yes, manpower is a slight issue." A'lar would agree. "At least when it comes to people we know we can trust completely. Which is why I plan to ask Lyrien to help Elinari in her endeavor. And Caeldreth too, I think."
 
The half dragon woman named would glance up from her papers. "I have to ask if we can trust either, though for different reasons."
 
"Lyrien wishes to help people, and what better way to help someone than prevent their death? As for Celdraeth she spoke true and a person's path can change. I trust all members of the Raven, but there are not enough of us to do what needs to be done right now."
 
She'd nod, sighing and setting the papers down. "You're right. There were only four people under me to begin with and with the problems here and in the east, we are stretched thin. I don't like it completely, but sometimes risks are needed in my line of work."
 
The corner of A'lar's mouth would quirk up. "Wonderful. I will speak with both then. For now let us all get some rest. I'll speak to each of you in private more in next few days before I leave."
 
The others would nod, finishing their drinks and going back to their work.