Chapter 5
The dim light of dawn seeped through the narrow cracks in the hideout's walls. Mara sat alone, poring over the remnants of the stolen plans, her mind racing. The success of their attack had ignited hope among the oppressed districts, yet a heavy weight pressed on her chest.
"Did we do enough?" she whispered to herself. The victory felt hollow amid the growing danger.
Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Jalen entered cautiously. His face was grim.
"They're tightening security. Patrols are doubling in the city. And I heard whispers some of our people might have been captured or betrayed," he said, voice low.
Mara's fists clenched. "We can't afford any more mistakes. We need to find out who sold us out."
As they spoke, a figure slipped into the shadows an informant known as Riven. His reputation was murky, words swirling that he had ties to both the rebels and the city's authorities.
"Riven," Mara greeted cautiously. "What news do you bring?"
The informant hesitated, eyes darting around. "There's more than one traitor among us. Someone has been feeding information to the enemies. We need to be careful."
Mara nodded grimly. The battle was no longer just against the rulers but also within their own ranks.
Outside, the distant sound of marching soldiers echoed. The rebels' window for action was shrinking. Mara made a decision.
"We strike again, but this time, smarter. We find the traitor, or we risk losing everything."
Jalen looked at her, resolve firming. "Then we move tonight."
As the sun rose higher, casting long shadows across the city, the rebels prepared for their next move knowing that trust was now their most fragile weapon.