The underground chamber was filled with shadows and whispers. Mara and Jalen crouched over a battered table, studying a series of coded messages and scattered clues.
"Someone's been cautious, Mara muttered, her eyes narrowing. mut no one can hide
forever.
Jalen nodded. "We need outside help. Someone who's seen the city from the inside."
Suddenly, a faint knock echoed from the door. An old ally, Elias, entered cautiously, clutching a small package.
"I might have what you're looking for," Elias said softly. "Information from the old days—when the city wasn't so guarded."
He placed a worn map and a tattered notebook on the table. As Mara spread out the items, her eyes caught a mark—one that looked suspiciously familiar.
"Wait," she said, pointing. This symbol... it's the mark of the Black Lotus, a secret society known for their manipulations.
Jalen's brow furrowed. Are they involved with the traitor
Elias nodded grimly. Most likely. They've always had eyes and ears everywhere.
Before they could process further, an alarm sounded outside—the unmistakable clang of approaching soldiers. Mara's heart pounded.
Traitor or not, she said quickly, gathering the clues, we have to move now. We can't afford to be exposed.
As they prepared to leave, a shadow slipped in behind them. A figure emerged a woman cloaked in dark fabric, eyes piercing and intense.
I can help, she said simply. But you'll have to trust me.
Mara exchanged a wary glance with Jalen. In this game of shadows, trust was a luxury they could ill afford. But every moment counted.
Talk fast, Mara demanded.
The stranger's lips curled into a faint smile. I know who the traitor is. And I know what they're planning next.
The room fell silent. The game was about to change—one way or another.