Chapter 76: Shadows of Doubt
The morning sun broke over the horizon, casting a pale, reluctant light across the encampment. The fires from the previous night's battle had long since died out, leaving behind a scarred and barren field. Alex sat at the edge of her cot in the command tent, her shoulders hunched, fingers idly tracing the worn edges of the map spread out before her. It was marked with the boundaries of their victories and the faint outlines of the unknown territories that stretched far beyond her understanding.
Ethan entered without a word, the faint rustle of the tent flap announcing his presence. He carried a bowl of broth, the steam curling into the cold air. Setting it on the table, he regarded her with quiet concern.
"You need to eat," he said, his voice gentle.
Alex didn't look up. "There's no time."
Ethan sighed, pulling a stool closer. "You're no good to anyone if you collapse. We've already lost too much."
