Chapter 121: Bonds of Brotherhood

The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels against the tracks filled the carriage as the team made their way to Jinstain. The journey provided a rare moment of respite from the whirlwind of strategy meetings, press briefings, and legal maneuvering that had defined their last few days.

The luxurious train car, reserved for heads of state and top officials, was spacious and elegantly appointed, but the team occupied it like soldiers on a campaign, their weapons never far from reach.

Sorcha sat by one of the wide windows, watching the rolling countryside blur by in shades of green and gold. Her mind, however, was not on the passing scenery. Instead, she found herself quietly observing her new teammates.

She had been welcomed into this close-knit circle, but she still felt like the outsider looking in, trying to learn the rhythms of a dance that had been choreographed long before her arrival.

She glanced across the aisle at Reilynn, who was sharpening her dagger with methodical precision. T