Hard Choices for an Uncertain Future

With renewed determination, Madison turned away from the window and began to plan their next move. The future of the kingdom hung in the balance, and she would not let it fall.

She gathered the council members in the war room, spreading maps across the large oak table. "We need to act fast," Madison said, her voice steady despite the worry gnawing at her insides. "Every moment Wald remains captive, our enemies grow bolder."

Rendal, still looking haggard from his ordeal, nodded grimly. "The rogues who ambushed us were well-organized. They knew our patrol routes, our defenses. This traitor must have deep knowledge of our operations."

A murmur of unease rippled through the gathered advisors. Madison understood their fear - the thought that one of their own had betrayed them was almost too much to bear. But she couldn't let paranoia tear them apart now.