Leah poured over the letters Samuel had recovered from the castle's errand boy while she sat in her chamber. Every message was mysterious and contained hints of a continuing plot. She felt the burden of responsibility bearing down on her as she bit her lip. Jacob was correct; before more damage was done, they needed to find the traitor who was still hiding among the flock.
She was startled by a knock at the door. "Come in," she beckoned.
Samuel came in, his face serious. "We need to talk."
Leah motioned for him to take a seat after nodding. "What did you find?"
"Last night, one of the kitchen staff members was observed skulking around the eastern tower. He said he was lost when he was confronted, but his account seems unconvincing. A tiny piece of parchment was set down on the table by Samuel. "This was found in his apron."
Leah spread the paper out. The message was scribbled quickly:
"The wolf gets up." Wait for the signal.
She raised her head and met Samuel's gaze. "This isn't over, is it?"
He gave a headshake. "No. And I worry that time is running out."
A contented smirk was on Gwen's lips as she sat in the faint light of her cell deep within the dungeon. She was aware that despite being imprisoned, her power continued to crawl around the castle halls like a poisonous snake. The sentry outside shuffled nervously, obviously apprehensive of the once-dominant Luna.
She gave a little laugh. "Tell me, dear guard, have you ever wondered what it's like to stand on the winning side?"
The man tensed but remained silent. Gwen's voice was smooth as she leaned forward. "Mark my words, this castle will see another Luna soon—one who truly knows how to lead."
The guard gulped but remained silent.
Jacob, his patience running thin, barged into the battle room above. He pounded his hands on the table, scattering the papers and maps. "We must increase security. We cannot afford to let this revolt fester since Gwen still has sway."
Paul Lyall, his Beta, gave a nod. "I've doubled the night patrols, but it's clear someone inside is feeding information beyond the castle walls."
Leah brought the parchment inside the room. One of the kitchen employees had something on them. There is still someone inside awaiting Gwen's instructions.
Jacob's face darkened as he took the note. "We then lay a trap. We give them the impression that their strategy is effective and then catch them when they try something else.
Samuel grinned. "Now that's a plan I can get behind."
The traitor moved covertly as they worked out their plan, getting ready for the night that would make all the difference. There would soon be no way out of the tightening web.