The Shards of War: Balancing Power

Chapter 24

Aria navigated the concealed corridors of the Royal Vanguard's clandestine headquarters, a growing unease settling within her with each step. Illiyas, the seasoned operative, led her through the covert complex, ultimately guiding her to where Sunny diligently honed her sword skills. Sunny's every movement radiated an intense focus on perfecting her craft. As Illiyas ushered Aria to a seat, his gaze bore into her with expectation.

"So, Aria," Illiyas inquired, breaking the silence that enveloped them, "what did you learn from Eclipse Horizon this time? Any valuable information we can use against them?"

Aria hesitated, her internal conflict evident in the pause that lingered. Loyalty to Eclipse Horizon warred with the secrets she now held. Choosing her words meticulously, she finally responded.

"Well, they seem genuinely committed to their cause. Matsu, Blaze, Calie, and Marie—they care about each other and their goals. I didn't uncover any weaknesses or critical information that could be exploited."

A shared glance between Illiyas and Sunny conveyed a silent exchange of concern. Sunny, in the midst of her sword practice, halted, fixing her gaze on Aria with a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

"Aria," Illiyas pressed further, his tone weighted with urgency, "we need more than just observations. Eclipse Horizon is obstructing our mission. We need to know their weaknesses, their vulnerabilities. How do we undermine them? What did you gather during your time with them?"

Aria, grappling with the burden of her knowledge, bit her lip, sensing the gravity of the situation. While Illiyas and Sunny harbored a vendetta against Matsu, Aria couldn't dismiss the connection she felt with Eclipse Horizon. Despite this, she spoke cautiously.

"I haven't discovered any clear weaknesses yet. They're a tight-knit team, and Matsu's leadership is strong. It might take time to find a way to exploit any vulnerabilities."

Sunny's scrutiny deepened, and Illiyas leaned back, contemplating Aria's words. The air in the secret headquarters remained charged with tension as Aria wrestled with the repercussions of her choices and the choices that awaited her.

Illiyas let out a heavy sigh, his dissatisfaction with Aria's report evident in the furrow of his brow. Leaning forward, he fixed Aria with a penetrating gaze, the urgency of the situation reflected in his eyes.

"We don't have time to spare, Aria," Illiyas asserted. "We need actionable information. Tell me about their allegiances, their loyalties. Are there individuals among them who might turn against the group?"

Aria hesitated, well aware that divulging too much could jeopardize the trust she was building with her newfound allies. "They're loyal to each other, Illiyas," she finally spoke up. "I haven't sensed any internal conflicts or doubts. If there are any cracks, they're well hidden."

Sunny, still engrossed in inspecting her sword, interjected without turning around. "We can't rely solely on her observations, Illiyas. We need a concrete plan, not just vague assessments."

Frustration etched across Illiyas's features as he rubbed his temples. "Aria, we need you to get closer, earn their trust. There must be something they're hiding. Dig deeper, and remember our mission. Eclipse Horizon is an obstacle that we can't ignore."

Aria nodded, the weight of a growing guilt twisting in her stomach. The delicate balance between her mission and the friendships she was forging with Eclipse Horizon pressed on her mind as she considered how to navigate the complex terrain ahead.

Then aria tells them that Matsu is skilled with the use of aura. Illiyas and Sunny respond that they already know how strong he is and that, even if they fight him simultaneously, their chances of winning are extremely slim. For this reason, they must identify his weakness, something that will hurt him. Then Aria recalls that Matsu had mentioned his late daughter Peony; she tries to conceal the fact that she is aware of this.