Back in Lirael's kingdom, Aiden's efforts to restore trade routes bore fruit. Independent merchants, incentivized by the promise of protection and profit, began slipping through the Court's blockades. Supplies trickled back into the kingdom's markets, easing the strain on the populace. The subtle shifts went unnoticed by most, but to those watching closely, it was a clear sign that Lirael's kingdom was far from defeated.
In the palace, Lirael stood before her council, the weight of recent developments evident in her expression. Reports of renewed trade and covert support from Aiden's network had bolstered her confidence, but the battle was far from over.
"The Court underestimates us," she said, her voice steady. "They think we're on the verge of collapse. That arrogance will be their undoing."
