A War Within and Without

Xypheron strode through the palace halls like a storm, his entire presence sharp and commanding. Vexaria followed a step behind, her mind still tangled in the mess of what had just happened between them. But there was no time to dwell on it now.

War had come knocking.

The eastern border. She knew it well. Too well.

Xypheron's voice was like a blade as he addressed the commander who had been waiting for him in the war chamber. "How many?"

The commander hesitated. "Reports say hundreds, maybe more. They've been gathering forces for months. It seems they were waiting for the perfect moment to strike."

Vexaria's stomach twisted. Of course they had. The rebellion wasn't reckless—they were patient, calculated. They knew when to move. And if they were making this bold of a move now, they believed they had a chance at victory.

Xypheron exhaled sharply, his hands braced on the table. "Mobilize the second and third battalions. I want scouts reporting back within the hour. No mistakes."

The commander bowed and rushed out, leaving only the two of them in the dimly lit war chamber.

Vexaria crossed her arms. "This isn't just some minor attack. They've planned this."

Xypheron glanced at her, his gaze unreadable. "I know."

Something in his tone sent a shiver down her spine. He wasn't just preparing for battle—he was preparing for something much worse.

She stepped closer. "You think they have help from the inside."

His jaw tightened. "I know they do."

Vexaria's breath caught. If he knew that, it meant he was already hunting for the traitors within his own walls. And if the rebellion had a spy here, that meant they were far more dangerous than she