I stared at the conflict unfolding before me, weighing my options. The Guild had become a battleground of politics and power plays—with me at the center of the storm. After crippling Travis Blackthorne, I knew my days here were numbered.
"I should leave," I said to Fifth Elder, once Third Elder had departed with his thinly veiled threats. "My presence here only brings more trouble to the Guild."
Fifth Elder's weathered face creased with concern. "Don't be hasty, Master Knight. The Pavilion Master will return soon. She should be the one to decide your fate, not Third Elder."
I considered his words. The Pavilion Master had shown me nothing but support since my arrival, but even her influence had limits against families like the Blackthornes.
"I won't run from the consequences of my actions," I finally said, "but I won't be a pawn in Third Elder's games either."
