The next morning, Alina watched from the castle walls as Kael and his soldiers rode out to the eastern barracks. The sky was dark with storm clouds, a grim reflection of the turmoil that threatened to engulf the kingdom. Alina's heart twisted as she saw him vanish into the distance, knowing that he was marching straight into danger.
But she couldn't just stand by and watch. Determined to help, she sought out General Varian, one of Kael's most trusted advisors. The grizzled veteran was initially reluctant to let her involve herself in military affairs, but Alina's persistence wore him down.
"If you truly wish to help, Your Highness," Varian said, "then prove your loyalty. We have reason to believe that the rebels have a spy within the castle. Find them, and you will have the king's gratitude."
Alina nodded. This was her chance to show Kael that she was not his enemy, that she could be trusted. But as she delved deeper into the investigation, she realized just how treacherous the palace truly was.