Chapter 28

“And if he attacks while we wait?” Miriam asked, her tone challenging.

“Then we’ll be ready,” I replied, meeting her gaze with unwavering determination.

It wasn’t a perfect plan, and I knew it wouldn’t satisfy everyone. But it was the best choice I could make in the face of so much uncertainty. Slowly, the council began to nod, though the tension in the room lingered like a stubborn shadow.

As the council began to disperse, their murmurs filling the room once more, Dante lingered behind. He waited until the others were out of earshot before speaking.

“You’re making the right call,” he said, his voice quiet but certain.

“Am I?” I asked, allowing some of my doubt to slip through now that we were alone. My gaze fell to the map spread across the table, its edges worn from use, the lines marking the borders and patrol routes feeling more fragile with every passing day.

“Silas is smarter than we’re giving him credit for. If we’re not careful, we’ll play right into his hands.”