LISA
Thousands?
If Pip is right about the strength of their forces, something doesn't add up.
"If your rebellion is so vast and organized, how did they fail to evacuate Jericho's camp in time? How did they miss a massive attack?"
Her face falls. "I... I don't know. Communication breakdowns happen in war."
"Hmm. A convenient breakdown."
"It's not—" she starts.
"And how exactly did you get recruited? Royal princess, surrounded by guards and court protocol. How did the rebellion just waltz up to you?"
She fidgets with the chain on her wrist. "It was at the Summer Solstice Ball. A server slipped me a note while refilling my drink. Said to meet in the eastern garden if I wanted to save my father."
My skin prickles. Something's hinky. I've read plots like this, and they never go the way you think they're going to. It's always a way to foreshadow the twist later. "And you just... went? Alone? To meet a stranger based on a cryptic note?"
