The sound of approaching boats had grown steadily louder throughout the morning, but it wasn't until Mistress Delmare's expression tightened with recognition that the true significance became clear. She moved to the sanctuary's edge, peering through the palm fronds at the approaching Azure Depths vessels.
"Reinforcements," she said quietly, her voice carrying a note of resignation. "I had hoped for more time."
"Your own people?" Professor Nyala asked, noting the healer's obvious discomfort.
"Domain officials. They've come to ensure I don't... misinterpret the situation regarding the elemental manifestations." Mistress Delmare's oceanic eyes found the Triumvirate. "I had hoped to approach this matter with more nuance."
