Li Xue's instincts told her that, despite their recent victory, something was amiss. As days went by, she noticed a subtle, underlying tension within the kingdom. Whispers and sideways glances filled the palace, and an air of unease lingered like a shadow over the Mermaid Kingdom.
Determined to understand the cause of this disquiet, Li Xue began to investigate. She spent long hours pouring over ancient scrolls and speaking with various members of the court. It was during one of these conversations that she first heard the rumors of an unseen enemy.
"Your Highness," a palace servant whispered to her one day, "there is talk of a traitor in our midst, someone who seeks to undermine the kingdom and bring about our destruction."
Li Xue's eyes widened at this revelation, her heart heavy with concern. "Why would someone do such a thing?" she asked, her voice barely audible.
