Marcus led them deeper into the forest, his companions forming a protective circle around Emilia, Edward, and Lucas. The trees seemed to close in, casting eerie shadows that danced like phantoms on the ground.
"So, Marcus," Lucas said, his tone measured, "care to explain how you knew we'd be heading to Ravenshire?"
Marcus chuckled, his eyes glining with amusement. "Let's just say I have friends in... unexpected places. You've been making waves, Edward. Word spreads fast in certain circles."
Edward's expression turned guarded. "What circles are those?"
Marcus's smile widened. "The kind that involve people interested in the rebellion's plans. And yours, specifically, Edward."
Emilia's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"
Marcus slowed, his gaze sweeping their surroundings before settling on Edward. "You've been seen talking to key players in the rebellion. The crown's eager to make an example out of you. But there are others... who see potential in you."
Lucas's hand rested on his sword hilt. "What others?"
Marcus's expression turned serious, a flicker of something like caution crossing his face. "People with influence. They're willing to offer protection... if you're willing to cooperate."
Edward's jaw clenched. "Cooperate with what?"
Marcus's gaze locked onto him. "The rebellion's plans are fragile. One misstep could collapse everything. These people want assurances you'll play along... and help steer the movement in their favor."
Emilia's mind spun. Who were these mysterious players, and what did they want with Edward?
Lucas's voice was firm. "We'll decide that once we're safe. Keep moving."
Marcus nodded, leading them to a hidden clearing. In the center stood a small, rustic cottage, smoke drifting lazily from the chimney.
"This is one of our safe houses," Marcus said, gesturing them inside. "You'll be safe here for tonight. We can discuss... options in the morning."
As they entered, Emilia noticed the cottage was surprisingly well-stocked. A fire crackled in the hearth, and food simmered on a small stove.
Edward collapsed onto a wooden chair, exhaustion etched on his face. "How did you find us, really?"
Marcus leaned against the doorframe, his expression thoughtful. "Let's just say I have a talent for knowing where trouble's brewing. You've been on the crown's radar for weeks, Edward. It's a miracle you weren't caught sooner."
Lucas's gaze narrowed. "And what's in it for you, Marcus? Why help us?"
Marcus's smile returned, sly and unreadable. "I'm a man of many interests, Sir Lucas. Let's say I'm... hedging my bets. I think you and the de Vere siblings could be valuable allies."
Emilia's instincts still screamed caution. "And if we refuse to cooperate with these... people you're talking about?"
Marcus's gaze settled on her, a hint of something darker flickering in his eyes. "Then I'm afraid you'll be on your own. The crown won't hesitate to make an example out of you. And I won't be able to protect you."
The cottage fell silent, the only sound the crackling fire. Emilia exchanged worried glances with Lucas and Edward.
Edward spoke up, his voice firm. "We need time to think. Can you give us a moment?"
Marcus nodded, gesturing to his companions. "We'll check the perimeter. Don't try to leave. You won't get far."
Once they were alone, Lucas turned to Emilia and Edward, his expression grave. "We can't trust him. He's hiding something."
Emilia nodded, her mind racing. "But do we have a choice? If the crown's looking for us, we need protection."
Edward leaned forward, his voice low. "I think we should hear him out. If he can really help us..."
Lucas shook his head. "We don't know whose side he's on. This could be a trap."
The debate continued, each of them weighing risks and options. As the night wore on, exhaustion began to creep in, but Emilia's mind refused to rest.
A soft knock on the door interrupted them. Marcus poked his head in, his expression serious. "Company. Sounds like horses approaching. Could be friendly, could be trouble."
Lucas was on his feet instantly, hand on his sword. "Get them to safety. Now."
Marcus nodded, gesturing to a hidden compartment beneath the floorboards. "In there. Quickly."
Emilia's heart pounded as they hurried into the narrow space. Lucas joined them, his eyes locked on Marcus.
"You're coming with us," Lucas whispered.
Marcus smiled, a hint of irony in his expression. "I think I'll stay here. I'm curious to see who's arriving."
The compartment lid closed above them, plunging them into darkness. Emilia strained her ears, her breath trapped in her throat.
Horses stopped outside. Voices, muffled but urgent, filtered through the wooden floorboards.
"—looking for Edward de Vere," a gruff voice said. "We've had a tip he's hiding here."
Marcus's voice, smooth and innocent, replied, "Sorry, good sirs. I'm just a humble traveler. Haven't seen anyone matching that description."
A pause. Then, "Search the cottage."
Emilia's grip on Lucas's arm tightened. The sounds of footsteps, furniture scraping, and muffled shouts filled the air. Time seemed to stretch endlessly.
Finally, the voice spoke again, closer now. "Looks like a false tip. Sorry to disturb you, traveler."
Marcus's chuckle echoed through the floorboards. "No trouble at all. Safe travels."
The horses moved off, fading into the night. The cottage fell silent.
Lucas pushed open the compartment lid, his gaze questioning. "Marcus?"
But Marcus was gone.
Emilia's eyes widened as she scrambled out. "Where did he go?"
Lucas's expression was grim. "He's playing both sides. We need to get out of here. Now."
Edward frowned, scanning the cottage. "But he could've given us up. Why help us at all?"
Emilia's mind spun. "Maybe he didn't. Maybe he's playing a longer game."
Lucas's jaw clenched. "Either way, we can't stay. Let's gather supplies and head to Ravenshire. We'll figure out our next move there."
As they prepared to leave, Emilia noticed a piece of parchment on the small table. A note, scratched in hasty handwriting:
"Trust no one. M."