Bound in Betrayal      

The air in the town square hung heavy with an eerie tension as Ren and the others slowly regained consciousness. 

Their eyes fluttered open to find themselves bound to stakes at the center of the square, a scene that was as perplexing as it was unsettling. 

The town's folk, who had moments ago been allies in a joyous celebration, now looked at them with a mix of guilt and apprehension. 

An uncomfortable silence filled the air, and the villagers avoided making eye contact, their expressions revealing an inner conflict.

"Ren, you're awake," Elena's voice cut through the stillness, her tone a blend of concern and confusion. 

Ren tried to move but found himself securely tied to the stake, the ropes biting into his wrists. "What's going on here?" he questioned, his gaze shifting to the elder Morgrimm, who stood somberly nearby.