The camp was quiet, almost too quiet, as Ashvath and Sita prepared their ruse. The fake message was carefully crafted and sent through the usual channels — a whispered plan to move the king's forces under cover of night.
---
Waiting in the Shadows
Ashvath crouched behind a stack of barrels, eyes scanning the dim path near the command tents.
Sita's whisper broke the silence, "They'll come for this."
Minutes stretched, the night thick with tension.
Suddenly, footsteps—soft but purposeful—approached.
---
The Betrayer Revealed
Two figures slipped out of the darkness, moving toward the fake message. Ashvath signaled Sita.
As they closed in, the larger figure halted, glancing suspiciously.
Ashvath stepped forward.
"Caught in the act."
The man froze, then sneered. "So it's true — the king's men are spies."
The second figure lunged.
---
A Deadly Struggle
Ashvath grappled with the attacker. Sita drew her dagger, moving with swift precision.
The fight was brutal but brief. The two traitors were subdued, breathless and defeated.
---
Ashoka's Reaction
The next morning, Ashoka stood before the captured men.
"Your loyalty to rebellion is your downfall," he said coldly.
One of the men spat, "This war isn't over."
Ashoka's eyes hardened. "It's only just begun."
---
A Moment Between Shadows
That night, Ashvath and Sita stood by the campfire, exhaustion heavy but their spirits steadied.
Sita smiled softly. "We're stronger than we realize."
Ashvath reached out, fingers brushing hers. "Together, always."