The Five Kingdoms*

chapter 3

*Chapter 3: Shadows of Deceit*

I examined the message carefully, searching for any hidden signs or clues. The parchment was plain, with no distinguishing marks. The handwriting seemed hasty but not unrefined.

A trap was likely, but I couldn't ignore the possibility that this message held crucial information. I decided to investigate while taking precautions.

At midnight, I approached the abandoned windmill, my senses on high alert. The windmill's sails creaked in the gentle breeze, casting long shadows across the ground.

I drew my sword, its moonlit glow illuminating the surrounding area. No signs of ambush or hidden enemies.

As I entered the windmill, a figure emerged from the shadows. Hooded and cloaked, their face remained obscured.

"Who are you?" I demanded, sword at the ready.

The figure hesitated before pulling back its hood, revealing a young woman with piercing green eyes. She seemed familiar, but I couldn't place her.

"Please, Knight Rin, listen. I'm Elian, a member of a secret group within the Human Kingdom. We seek to protect our kingdom from those who would undermine the Treaty."

Elian's words were laced with conviction, but I remained cautious. "What makes you think I'd believe you?"

Elian produced a document, sealed with the royal crest. "King Hibiki entrusted me with this. It reveals the names of those involved in the treasonous plot."

I took the document, scanning its contents. The names listed were high-ranking officials and nobles, some of whom I had suspected.

"Why come to me?" I asked, eyes narrowing.

Elian's gaze locked onto mine. "You're the only one we trust to protect Princess Lizbeth and the Treaty. Will you help us?"

I weighed the risks and benefits. Elian's information could be invaluable, but trusting her blindly was dangerous.

"I'll consider your proposal," I said finally. "But I must verify this information. Meet me at the old oak tree in the castle gardens tomorrow night."

Elian nodded, disappearing into the shadows as suddenly as she appeared.

As I left the windmill, I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was stepping into a complex web of intrigue.

The next evening, I met Elian at the old oak tree, determined to uncover the truth behind the treasonous plot.

"Tell me more about this secret group," I demanded.

Elian's eyes darted around the garden before focusing on me. "We're known as the Loyal Guard. We've been watching the kingdom's officials, waiting for signs of treachery."

I studied her expression, searching for any deception. "How do I know I can trust you?"

Elian's voice dropped to a whisper. "Because, Knight Rin, I have information that will change everything. Information that could save Princess Lizbeth's life."

My grip on my sword tightened. "What is it?"

Elian's eyes locked onto mine, her words hanging in the balance.

Elian's eyes locked onto mine, her voice barely above a whisper. "One of the princess's closest advisors is involved in the plot. Someone she trusts implicitly."

My mind racing, I thought of the advisors surrounding Princess Lizbeth. Who could be capable of such betrayal?

"Who?" I demanded, my grip on my sword tightening.