Chapter 81 --81
Elara walked back to her desk and sat down.
"When did you realize?" she asked. "That they were trying to kill me, not just watch me."
"The eastern docks," Lisa whispered. "When you came back and told me six assassins were dead. That they’d been waiting exactly where I’d reported you’d be, exactly when I’d said you’d be there. That’s when I knew. That’s when I understood what I’d been doing."
"And you didn’t confess then."
"I was terrified. I thought if I confessed, you’d kill me. And then my sister would die too because I’d failed my handlers." Lisa looked up with red, swollen eyes. "I know that sounds cowardly. I know I should have told you immediately. But I was paralyzed. I kept thinking maybe I could fix it somehow, find a way to protect both you and my family, but I didn’t know how, and then the Shadow Guild found me anyway."
Elara leaned back in her chair.
Complete intelligence compromise. Months of detailed reports delivered to unknown enemies. Assassination attempts enabled by information Lisa provided. And all of it driven not by malice but by coercion.
By family being used as leverage.
It was almost elegant in its efficiency.
"Your Highness," Lisa said quietly. "I know nothing I say can make this right. I betrayed you. I put your life at risk. I helped your enemies. I deserve whatever punishment you decide." She straightened slightly, shoulders back despite the tears. "But please. Please. My sister and my mother. They didn’t do anything wrong. They’re innocent. If you’re going to punish someone, punish me. Not them."
Elara studied her for a long moment.
Lisa was broken. Terrified. Guilty and ashamed and desperate.