The Caelestis Empire: Rebuilding a Kingdom from Ashes

Chapter 5: The Hunt for Traitors

The dust from the explosion had barely settled when Augustus gathered his elite unit, the court's trusted soldiers, and several of his key allies in the royal war room. The room was dimly lit, with a large table at the center, covered in maps, documents, and various plans detailing the kingdom's defense strategies. The tension was palpable, and the room buzzed with murmurs of concern.

Augustus stood at the head of the table, his expression calm but his golden eyes blazing with determination. Liscia was by his side, and she could feel the weight of the situation bearing down on both of them. Duke Carmine, Count Marx, and several other high-ranking officials were present, all of them keenly aware that the incident could not be ignored.

"We were attacked from within," Augustus began, his voice firm and steady. "Someone tried to sabotage our training exercise, and they nearly succeeded. We can't allow this to happen again."

Duke Carmine's face was stern, his brows furrowed in deep thought. "Whoever did this knew our movements, knew where to strike. This is not the work of an outsider; it has to be someone with connections within our court."

Augustus nodded. "Exactly. And that means we have traitors among us. People who would rather see the kingdom weakened than see it rise with new ideas and reforms."

Count Marx tapped his fingers nervously against the table. "But who would benefit from such an attack? Surely, no one here wants to see our kingdom fall to the Demon Lord's Domain."

Liscia stepped forward, her voice steady. "Not fall, perhaps, but some may fear losing their power or status if Augustus's reforms continue to succeed."

Duke Carmine nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Some nobles have always resisted change. But an attack like this... it's bold, even for them."

Augustus leaned over the table, his hands resting on its edge. "We need to flush them out, and we need to do it quickly. I have a plan, but it requires cooperation from all of you."

The room fell silent, all eyes on him. "What do you propose, Augustus?" Liscia asked, her tone both curious and supportive.

"We need to stage another event," Augustus replied. "A public demonstration of our new military capabilities. Something that will draw out our enemies, force them to act. If we can provoke them into revealing themselves, we'll have a chance to root them out."

Count Marx frowned. "A risky move. What if they don't take the bait? Or worse, what if they strike more violently?"

Augustus shrugged. "There's always risk, but doing nothing is riskier. We can't wait for them to strike again. We need to take control of the situation."

Duke Carmine folded his arms, considering the plan. "And what exactly do you have in mind for this demonstration?"

Augustus smiled, a hint of confidence flashing in his golden eyes. "We'll hold a grand military parade and training exhibition in the capital, showcasing our new elite unit and their capabilities. We'll make it clear that our forces are stronger, faster, and more prepared than ever before. It'll be a show of strength—but more importantly, it'll be bait for those who want to see me fail."

Liscia nodded, understanding his thinking. "If they feel threatened enough, they'll act. They won't be able to resist."

Duke Carmine grinned slightly. "I like it. Bold, but it could work. I'll lend my support. I'll make sure my forces are on high alert during the event."

Count Marx, still hesitant, sighed. "Very well. But I hope you know what you're doing, Augustus."

Augustus nodded. "So do I. We'll need everyone ready. This could get dangerous."