As Alina hurried back to Kael, she could see the doubt in his eyes as she relayed the rebels' demands. But she had no time to convince him of her sincerity. "We need to buy time," she urged. "If we agree to negotiate, we can move our soldiers into position and take them by surprise."
Kael considered her words, then gave a curt nod. "I will give you this chance, Alina. But if you are wrong, the blood of the hostages will be on your hands."
While the rebels waited for her return, Kael ordered his soldiers to surround the tower discreetly. Alina's plan hinged on timing; they needed to strike before the rebels realized they were being deceived.
But just as they were about to launch their attack, a breathless soldier rushed to Kael's side. "Your Majesty, we have discovered a traitor among our ranks," he said. "Captain Aric was seen communicating with the rebels."
Alina's heart sank. She had trusted Aric, had even considered him a potential ally. But now, it seemed he had been playing his own game all along.
Kael's eyes darkened with fury. "Find him," he ordered. "And bring him to me. Alive."