Lira gathered the crew in the dimly lit briefing room, eyes scanning every face.
The evidence pointed sharply toward Merek — the steady, trusted strategist.
"Why, Merek?" Titan's voice was a mix of disbelief and anger.
Merek's gaze dropped, then hardened. "You don't understand. I never wanted this war to drag on. I tried to protect you all... by controlling the damage."
Kaela's hands clenched. "By betraying us?"
Lira stepped forward, voice steady but cold. "We fight for freedom — not control."
Merek's expression flickered — regret, fear, defiance.
The room held its breath.
Could a single betrayal tear apart everything they'd built?
Or could forgiveness save them — and the rebellion?