The Hostage at the GateThe courtyard buzzed with tension. Warriors moved fast, forming defensive lines, whispering orders, checking weapons. Lena pushed through them, her steps rigid and quick. Jade and Garrick flanked her while Kade, still injured, limped stubbornly behind despite every healer shouting at him to stop.“Slow down,” Kade said.“No,” Lena replied without turning. “I am not giving Elias a reason to hurt her.”“Lena,” Jade tried, “you do not even know if it is really her.”“I know,” Lena said sharply. “Elias would not risk a bluff that big.”Garrick grunted. “He would if he thought it would rattle you.”“He succeeded,” Lena said. “Do you want honesty or comfort?”Jade sighed. “Honesty. Always honesty.”They reached the outer gates. Warriors stood on the walls, bows drawn. The watch captain hurried toward them.“He is waiting outside,” she said. “He has not moved in the last three minutes.”Kade tried to step ahead of Lena, but she placed a hand on his chest. “Do not even
Last Updated : 2025-12-03 Read more