THE RADIANT MONARCH

Chapter 10: Tensions in the Ranks

Heavy tensions filled the air as Kael, Lysandra, Eldric, and the others left behind the haven that was Westreach. The rolling hills stretched out before them, and though at one time the landscape had seemed so serene, it felt now heavy with invisible threats. Every step felt a movement closer to unseen danger. The knowledge they had acquired in town-the rumors regarding Lord Varyn and the other secretive factions-weighed heavy in Kael's mind. They were not the only ones searching for the Heartstone, nor were their enemies weak and lowly.

The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the path as the group marched in silence. Kael's mind was reeling, attempting to fit all of what they'd learned together. His mind continued to stray to Lysandra-she had been useful thus far; her information corroborating much of what they'd heard from Farley. But trust was a fragile thing. Could he truly rely on her-or did she play at her own game?

As if sensing his thoughts, Lysandra turned to