Ambushed!

Asael turned to leave, but something in Bener's stillness made him pause.

"Father, do you know who the man is? Is it only one, or there are more?" Bener asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

General Odin exhaled heavily, shaking his head. "The letter only said he is someone close to me." His gaze darkened. "The bandits claimed the rebel leader from Northem has infiltrated my men."

A chill settled between them. Whoever these traitors were, they covered their tracks well.

Meanwhile, Lara traced her steps back to her sleeping area—a small hollow nestled between two massive roots beneath a towering tree. It was a modest space, shielded by the protruding root's embrace. Overhead, the low-hanging branches bore white makeshift hammocks, swaying slightly in the evening breeze.

She studied them thoughtfully. 'I should make one for myself.' She just needed to gather enough hemp to weave into rope.