Page 168 of Stormvein

I consider who to bring. Too many people increase the chance of discovery, and if this goes wrong, I don’t want to lose half our remaining fighters in one failed mission.

The crystal is the real prize. If we can take it from Sereven, we eliminate his most effective weapon against me. But that assumes we can get close enough to him without being overwhelmed by his guards.

The biggest question is whether Lisandra’s information is accurate or if this is another layer of manipulation on her part. She’s given us exactly what we need to justify a dangerous mission. A target, and the location. It’s either genuine or the perfect trap.

But sitting here waiting for Sereven to attack on his terms isn’t an option either. At least this way, we get to choose the ground and timing of our confrontation.

Chapter Thirty-Six

ELLIE

The body adapts faster than the heart. That is how survival works.

Reflections on Captivity — Sacha Torran’s Journals

I watchwhile Sacha paces the room, silently working through every angle of what we learned from Lisandra. The decision to go after Sereven directly rather than waiting for him to attack Stonehaven feels surreal, but I understand the logic behind it.

“I need to speak to Varam.” Sacha’s voice is loud in the quiet of the room. I’m not entirely sure he’s aware he’s spoken out loud. Before I can say anything, he’s already at the door, instructing the guard outside to find his second-in-command immediately.

Closing the door, he resumes his pacing, but there’s something different about it now. More purpose, and less agitation.

“What if this is exactly what Sereven wanted? What if Lisandra’s confession was meant to drive us into making a rash decision?” The words spill out before I can stop them.

Sacha considers this, then shakes his head. “That might be true, but her fear was real enough. Sometimes the only way forward is through.”

I can’t argue with his reasoning, but my stomach ties itself up in knots while we wait for Varam to arrive. When he does, Mira is with him.

“We need to discuss our next move.” Sacha stops pacing and turns to face them both. “Based on what Lisandra told us about Sereven’s tactics, we believe he’ll be directing the attack on Stonehaven from Thornspire Keep. Not from the front lines.”

“You’re certain you can trust her information?” Mira asks.

“As certain as we can be. It fits his pattern. Stay back, coordinate, and use others to take the risks.”

“We need to take advantage of that information,” Varam says after a moment’s thought.

“Yes. A small team could reach Thornspire before he expects us. We could strike directly at the command rather than facing his full force.”

“When do we leave?”

“Tonight.” Sacha’s voice is steady. “We need to move fast.”

“I’ll go and prepare.” Varam turns toward the door.

“No.”

That one word stops him mid-step, tension tightening his spine. He turns back to face Sacha slowly. “What do you mean …no?”

“I need you to stay here.”

Varam’s expression shifts from confusion to anger. “Why?”

“Because Authority forces are three days away from Stonehaven. We have innocents here who need to be evacuated. I want you to make sure they get to safety.”

“Others can manage that. You need me with you.”

“No. I need you here more.” Sacha’s tone makes it clear this is not a discussion. “Lisandra’s betrayal has shown us how deepAuthority influence may have reached. You and Mira are the only ones I know with absolute certainty are loyal.”

A muscle ticks in Varam’s jaw as he stares at Sacha. Sacha doesn’t speak, just stands there holding his gaze.