The next three days started with chaos. The palace courtyard buzzed with noise as messengers rushed in and out of the gates, shouting orders and carrying scrolls sealed with the royal crest. Soldiers in armor ran down the halls, some with dirt still on their boots. The air smelled of tension, sharp and heavy.
Aveloria had barely finished breakfast when one of the guards came to her door. "Your Highness," he said, breathless. "News from the border."
She stood immediately. "What news?"
"The patrol has been compromised. The Wanderers ambushed them again near the east ridge. It seems they knew the route." He said.
Aveloria froze. "Knew the route?"
He nodded grimly. "That's what the report says. Someone must have leaked it."
Her stomach dropped. "How many casualties?"
"Ten dead, six missing, five wounded. Captain Arlen sent a message saying they're pulling back to regroup."
She exhaled shakily. "Tell the captain I'll come to the war room shortly."
