Chapter 25. Fragile Truths
The rebel command center, if one could call a partially collapsed observatory a center, buzzed with purpose. Power flickered on overhead screens as Lyne outlined the next operation.
"We have a sixty-hour window before Mairee’s remnant security AI launches a data sweep on the Echo Ring. If we want to salvage what’s left of Astra’s old intel cache, we move tonight."
Damien leaned against a pillar, arms crossed. "And the likelihood they’re expecting us?"
"High," Lyne admitted. "But we have something they don’t—insiders."
Elara exchanged a look with Jeren. He gave her a tight nod.
"I’ll lead the infiltration," Jeren said. "I know the layout. We can hit the relay, secure the core, and be out before sunrise."
Elara watched him closely. "You sure you’re ready?"
His voice was steady. "I’ve waited two years to take something back from them. Let me do this."
After the meeting, Elara found Damien alone, sharpening a combat blade by firelight.
"You don’t trust Jeren," she said quietly.
"I don’t trust sudden changes of heart," he replied. "He saw us as enemies for too long."