Chapter 68: Before the Strike

The dawn of the trap day arrived with an eerie stillness. Elara rose early, the sun barely breaking through the clouds, casting a muted light across the kingdom. A feeling of anticipation hung thick in the air, and she could sense that today would be pivotal.

After a quick breakfast with her husbands, Elara gathered her thoughts and prepared for the day ahead. "We need to stay focused," she reminded them as they walked through the castle's corridors. "Remember, our goal is to draw Davian out, not to engage him unless absolutely necessary."

Rhea joined them, her face set in determination. "I'm ready to play my part. Just tell me what I need to do."

Elara exchanged glances with Kyle and Aidan. "You'll head to the eastern edge of the forest, near the old ruins. We'll position scouts nearby to watch for Davian's approach. If he takes the bait, we'll need to act quickly."

As the morning progressed, they made their final preparations. Elara could feel the adrenaline coursing through her veins. They were about to face one of their greatest challenges, and the weight of leadership pressed heavily upon her shoulders.

"Stay close to each other," Kyle advised as they moved toward the designated trap site. "We can't let anything separate us. If Davian shows up, we need to be ready."

Elara nodded, grateful for his unwavering support. As they reached the ruins, she took a moment to survey the area. The ancient stone structures, overgrown with vines, provided natural cover and a sense of history. This would be their battleground.

"Remember the plan," Aidan said, his voice steady. "We wait for Davian to arrive, and then we'll act. Everyone knows their roles?"

The group nodded in unison, and Elara felt a surge of pride at the unity among them. "Let's do this," she said, steeling herself for what lay ahead.

As they took their positions, Elara settled behind a large stone, her heart racing. The sounds of nature surrounded her—birds chirping, leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. But the tranquil atmosphere was deceptive, a calm before the storm that threatened to engulf them.

Minutes felt like hours as they waited, eyes scanning the treeline for any sign of movement. The tension was palpable, and Elara could see the determination etched on her husbands' faces. They were ready to protect their kingdom at any cost.

Suddenly, a rustle in the bushes caught her attention. Her heart leaped as she gestured for everyone to remain silent. They all held their breath, straining to hear the slightest sound.

And then, he appeared.

Davian emerged from the shadows, flanked by a small group of loyalists. His expression was a mix of arrogance and contempt, a sinister smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "I knew you would come, Elara," he called out, his voice echoing through the ruins. "You've always been predictable."

Elara's heart raced, but she maintained her composure. This was the moment they had been preparing for. "Davian," she said, stepping into the open, her voice steady. "You've underestimated us for the last time."

He chuckled, a low, menacing sound. "Underestimate? I've been watching you fail time and time again. You think you can stop me?"

"We're not here to stop you; we're here to end this," Elara declared, her resolve strengthening. "Your reign of terror ends today."

The tension in the air thickened as Davian's loyalists shifted, eyes narrowing in anticipation. "You're brave, I'll give you that," he said, his tone mocking. "But bravery doesn't equate to victory."

With a flick of his wrist, he signaled for his men to move. Elara's heart raced as she recognized the danger, adrenaline flooding her system. "Now!" she shouted.

From their hidden positions, her husbands and their allies sprang into action, ambushing Davian and his followers. The chaos erupted instantly—swords clashing, shouts echoing, and the sound of battle filling the air.

Elara fought alongside Kyle and Aidan, their movements synchronized as they took on the enemy. Every strike, every parry was fueled by their determination to protect their kingdom and each other.

But as the battle raged on, Elara's attention was drawn to Davian, who had managed to slip away from the fray. He was retreating deeper into the forest, a cunning smile plastered on his face.

"Stay focused!" Kyle shouted, sensing her distraction. "We can't let him escape!"

"Let's corner him!" Elara commanded, her heart pounding. "We can't allow him to regroup."

With renewed vigor, they pressed forward, determined to cut off Davian's escape route. The clash of steel and the cries of battle filled the air as they fought their way through the chaos, hearts united in their quest to protect their kingdom.

As they reached the edge of the forest, Elara spotted Davian in the distance, a shadow darting between the trees. "He's getting away!" she yelled, pushing herself to run faster.

The forest was dense, branches whipping against her skin as she pursued him. But she wouldn't let him slip through her fingers. Not this time.

"Don't let him out of your sight!" she commanded, her voice filled with determination. "We end this now!"

As they chased him deeper into the woods, Elara felt the weight of their fight pushing her forward. They had come too far to let fear or doubt take hold. Today, they would reclaim their kingdom.