The dawn after Selara's arrival was marked by tension in the camp. Whispers spread like wildfire as the recruits questioned the wisdom of allowing a former Dark Circle member into their midst. Though Darian, Alina, and Sumner tried to quell the unease, it became clear that Selara's presence was a dividing force.
Darian stood near the center of the camp, his hand resting on the Heart as he addressed a group of concerned recruits. "I understand your fears, but this is not a decision made lightly. Selara offers us valuable insight into the Dark Circle's plans. If we are to succeed, we must take calculated risks."
"But what if she's leading us into a trap?" a grizzled farmer named Rurik asked, his voice filled with doubt. "We've lost too much already. Can we afford to trust her?"
Alina stepped forward, her tone firm but reassuring. "That's why she's being closely monitored. We won't act on her information without verifying it first. But turning her away outright might cost us a chance to save lives."
The crowd murmured, some nodding while others remained skeptical. Rurik reluctantly fell silent, though the doubt in his eyes lingered.
Selara's Knowledge
In the strategy tent, Selara stood before the map, her silver eyes scanning the crude markings that indicated Dark Circle outposts. Darian, Alina, Sumner, and Edric watched her closely, their distrust evident in their stances.
"These are outdated," Selara said, tracing her finger along the map. "The Dark Circle has shifted its focus. This outpost," she pointed to a marked location near the eastern hills, "has been abandoned. They've moved their forces here instead." She tapped a spot closer to the Valley of Winds.
Edric frowned, leaning in to examine the map. "Why the shift? What's their objective?"
Selara hesitated, her expression unreadable. "They're preparing for something significant—a ritual that requires the sanctum's energy. If they succeed, their power will grow exponentially, and your resistance will be crushed before it even begins."
Darian felt the weight of her words and the gravity of their mission. "How much time do we have?"
"Not long," Selara replied. "A week at most. Their forces are already mobilizing."
Sumner crossed his arms, his expression hard. "And you expect us to believe you're helping out of the goodness of your heart? What's your angle?"
Selara met his gaze without flinching. "My reasons are my own. But know this—I've seen what the Dark Circle does to those who oppose them. I won't stand by and watch them destroy everything."
Darian exchanged a glance with Alina. The Heart had not rejected Selara, but its light remained steady, offering no clear indication of her true intentions.
"We'll act on this information cautiously," Darian said finally. "If you're lying, it will be your last mistake."
Selara inclined her head. "Fair enough."
Preparing for Battle
The camp buzzed with activity as plans were put into motion. Two groups were formed: one to secure the sanctum and the other to create a diversion. Sumner took charge of the diversion team, organizing a bold yet carefully calculated strike that would draw the Dark Circle's forces away.
Darian, Alina, and Edric prepared to lead the sanctum team, using the Heart's power to fortify its defenses. Selara was placed under constant watch but allowed to accompany the sanctum team to provide guidance.
Mira clung to Alina as they prepared to leave. "Be careful," the young girl said, her voice trembling.
Alina knelt and smiled gently. "We will. Stay here and help keep the camp safe. You're braver than you know, Mira."
The girl nodded, her small hands clutching the edge of Alina's cloak before letting go.
A Deadly Ambush
As the two groups set out under the cover of night, the forest grew eerily quiet. The sanctum team moved swiftly but cautiously, guided by Selara's knowledge of hidden trails and enemy patrols.
Halfway to their destination, Selara raised a hand, signaling them to stop. "We're close to a Dark Circle patrol," she whispered. "Stay low and follow me."
Darian hesitated, glancing at Alina and Edric before nodding. They followed Selara through the dense underbrush, their movements silent and deliberate.
Suddenly, a shrill whistle pierced the air, followed by the sound of rustling leaves and heavy footsteps.
"It's an ambush!" Sumner shouted, drawing his sword as Dark Circle soldiers emerged from the shadows, their eyes gleaming with malice.
Chaos erupted as the sanctum team fought to defend themselves. Darian wielded the Heart's light, its radiant energy cutting through the darkness and disorienting their attackers. Alina moved with grace and precision, her staff striking down enemies with swift, decisive blows.
Edric held his ground, using his knowledge of herbs to throw smoke bombs that obscured their movements.
Selara fought alongside them, her movements sharp and efficient. She dispatched enemies with a dagger that glimmered faintly in the moonlight, her expression cold and focused.
As the battle raged on, Darian felt a surge of energy from the Heart. Its light grew brighter, pushing back the encroaching shadows. The remaining soldiers faltered, their confidence shaken by the display of power.
"Retreat!" one of them shouted, and the surviving attackers disappeared into the night.
Unanswered Questions
In the aftermath of the ambush, the team regrouped, their breaths heavy and their nerves frayed.
"How did they know we'd be here?" Edric asked, his tone laced with suspicion.
All eyes turned to Selara, who remained calm despite the accusations. "I warned you the Dark Circle is aware of your movements. This ambush only proves that they're growing desperate."
Sumner stepped forward, his sword still drawn. "Or it proves you're leading us into traps."
Darian held up a hand, his voice steady. "Enough. This isn't the time for infighting. We'll assess what went wrong once we reach the sanctum."
Selara met his gaze, her expression unwavering. "You're right. The sanctum is what matters now. Focus on that, or everything you've worked for will be lost."
Despite his mistrust, Darian couldn't ignore the truth in her words. The sanctum was their priority, and every moment they spent arguing brought the Dark Circle closer to their goal.
With renewed determination, the team pressed on, their resolve tested but unbroken. The Heart's light guided them through the darkness, a beacon of hope in a world teetering on the edge of despair.