×𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑-𝐂𝐑𝐎𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒×

Chapter 10: Shadows of Betrayal

The morning after the fierce battle at Aeloria’s southern gate dawned with an eerie calm. The city had endured the first wave of Lord Braden’s assault, but the cost had been high. The streets were lined with the wounded and the dead, and the scent of smoke and blood hung heavy in the air. Lyra Maren stood at the southern gate, her body aching from the strain of battle and her mind racing with thoughts of what lay ahead.

As the city’s defenders began to regroup, the air was thick with tension. The victory, if it could be called that, felt hollow. The knowledge that Braden’s forces had merely been testing their defenses weighed heavily on everyone’s minds. Lyra knew that the respite they had earned would be short-lived; Braden would not be deterred so easily.

Lyra was about to return to the command center when a familiar figure appeared in the crowd—Elara, the enigmatic leader of one of the factions that had allied with Aeloria. Her face was as unreadable as ever, but Lyra could sense a shift in her demeanor. Something was amiss.

“Elara,” Lyra greeted her, masking her exhaustion with a forced smile. “I’m glad to see you’re safe. We have much to discuss.”

Elara nodded, her eyes scanning the scene around them. “Indeed, Enchantress Maren. The city’s defenses held, but just barely. We need to be prepared for Braden’s next move.”

Lyra motioned for Elara to follow her to a more secluded area within the castle walls. Once they were away from the prying eyes of the soldiers and citizens, Lyra turned to face her ally. “You seem troubled. What’s on your mind?”

Elara hesitated for a moment, as if weighing her words carefully. “I’ve received some unsettling information,” she said finally, her voice low. “There are whispers of dissent among our ranks—rumors of betrayal.”

Lyra’s heart skipped a beat. “Betrayal? From within our own forces?”

Elara nodded. “It’s not clear who or how deep the betrayal runs, but I’ve heard enough to be concerned. If Braden has managed to plant a spy or turn someone to his side, it could explain how his forces have been so precise in their attacks. They’ve known exactly where our defenses are weakest.”

Lyra’s mind raced. The idea of a traitor in their midst was chilling. If Braden had an inside source, it could spell disaster for Aeloria. “We need to root out the traitor before they can do more damage,” she said, her voice firm. “But we must be cautious. If we move too aggressively, we could push the traitor deeper into hiding.”

Elara’s expression was grim. “Agreed. I suggest we start by investigating those with access to sensitive information. We can’t afford to overlook anyone, no matter how trusted they may seem.”

Lyra nodded in agreement. “I’ll speak with Captain Roderic and have him quietly begin questioning key personnel. We’ll also need to secure our communication channels and double-check all intelligence reports. If there’s a leak, we’ll find it.”

As they finished their conversation, Lyra couldn’t shake the feeling of unease that settled over her. The thought of betrayal from within was more dangerous than any external threat. If Braden had an ally in Aeloria, the entire city could be at risk.

Meanwhile, Caelan was overseeing the fortifications at the western pass, ensuring that their defenses were shored up after the previous night’s battle. The soldiers under his command were weary, but their spirits were bolstered by the fact that they had successfully held the line. However, Caelan knew that the victory was only temporary. Braden’s forces would regroup and attack again.

As he surveyed the defenses, a messenger arrived with a sealed letter. Caelan took the letter and dismissed the messenger before breaking the seal. The contents of the letter were brief, but the message was clear: there was a spy in their midst.