The morning after the battle, Emily stood at the entrance of the ruined fortress, watching the sun creep over the horizon, the fires had died, but the war wasn't over.
Lena approached, her steps slow but deliberate. "We need to talk."
Emily turned, crossing her arms. "About what?"
Lena's expression hardened. "Valeria."
They both glanced toward the makeshift cell where Valeria was being held.
She had been silent for hours, but her presence still cast a shadow over them all.
"She's playing a game," Lena muttered. "You know that, right?"
Emily nodded. "I know. But that doesn't mean she's lying."
Lena's eyes flashed. "You're considering working with her?"
Emily exhaled. "I'm considering not walking into a war blind."
Jared joined them, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't like it either, but we can't ignore what she said if the Architects are real—"
Lena cut him off. "If. We have no proof."
Emily met Lena's gaze. "Then let's get some."
