STARLIGHT UNBOUND by Deus Ex Machina - HTML preview

STARLIGHT UNBOUND

time. But we need an answer.”

Caidan’s lips pressed into a thin line. “A ceasefire, then. A gesture of good faith. ”

Corin muttered something under his breath, still radiating distrust.

Lyra’s eyes didn’t leave Caidan’s. “Make sure they understand. This is their chance to avoid further action. ”

Caidan inclined his head. “I hope, for all our sakes, that it doesn’t come to that.”

With that, he turned and walked away, his Stewards falling into step behind him.

***

The rebels stood together, listening to Caidan’s footsteps fade.

Only then Corin let out a sharp breath. “A ceasefire? You really think that snake is going to keep his word? ”

Lyra didn ’t turn. “We’ll find out soon enough.”

Harun leaned against a rusted beam. “If he doesn’t, we’ll know exactly where they stand. ” He exhaled. “For now, we hold. No disruptions. They have their 24 hours. ”

Corin shook his head. “We’re giving them too much time.”

Lucien hadn’t moved.

His mind was still turning, replaying every second of the conversation.

Caidan’s too polished. Too controlled. He’s saying all the right things, but it feels like a performance.

Lyra caught the look on his face. “You think he’s lying?”

Lucien hesitated, then shook his head. “I don’t know. But I don’t trust him.”

She nodded. “Neither do I. But for now, we wait.”

She turned toward the exit. “Let’s get back to the safehouse.”

Lucien followed, but the unease in his mind didn’t fade.

***

Corin spoke up. “This is a mistake.”

He sat on the edge of the table, his expression sharp. “An autonomous sector? It ’s a half-measure. It’s weak.”

“It’s a foothold, Darius. We agreed on this.”

“It’s a leash.” His gaze swept the room. “Do you really think they’ll let us

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