Elder Sewandel's piercing gaze didn't waver as Ethan carefully placed the sample case on the table between them. The circular chamber, though brightly lit by bioluminescent crystals, felt oppressive with tension. The three Council members—Sewandel, a stern-faced female elf named Elariel, and an ancient, white-haired elf called Thistlewood—watched with expressions ranging from open skepticism to carefully controlled alarm.

  "These samples were collected directly from Orlin's workstation," Ethan explained, opening the case to reveal the softly glowing vials. "The crystallized Void essence and dimensional resonator. Both are components of a gate he's constructing in the Shadow Hollows."

  Sewandel's expression remained impassive. "A serious accusation requires serious evidence, Mender. Many could mistake natural corruption for deliberate action."

  "With respect, Elder," Lysandra interjected, "we witnessed Orlin at the site. He was actively expanding a dimensional rift and speaking of a 'master' who would be pleased with his service."

  Thaelon stepped forward, placing Elindra's journal beside the samples. "The historical precedent is clear as well. The patterns match the Darkening of the Fourth Age almost exactly—including the corruption of a Council member."

  Elder Elariel leaned forward, her emerald eyes narrowing as she examined the journal. "I've studied the Darkening extensively. If this truly mirrors that catastrophe..." Her voice trailed off, the implications too grave to voice.

  "It does," Ethan confirmed. "And according to what we overheard, Orlin plans to accelerate his timeline. The Heart Tree is his target, and he's preparing to move within the next day or two."

  This revelation finally broke through Sewandel's composure. The Elder's face paled, his hand unconsciously moving to a pendant at his throat—a miniature representation of the Heart Tree carved from living wood.

  "If the Heart Tree falls to corruption," he said quietly, "Elderwood itself will cease to exist as we know it."

  Elder Thistlewood, who had remained silent until now, raised a gnarled hand. "What of the samples? Can they be analyzed to confirm your claims?"

  Thaelon gestured toward a door at the far side of the chamber. "My Crystal Analyticum awaits. With your permission, we can begin immediately."

  Sewandel nodded, then fixed his gaze on Ethan again. "You claim to be a Mender—one who repairs tears in reality. If this threat is as grave as you suggest, what solution do you propose?"

  STRATEGIC RESPONSE OPTIONS RECOMMEND: SHARE HISTORICAL SOLUTION WITH CAVEATS AVOID: CAUSING PANIC OR RESIGNATION HIGHLIGHT: POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE APPROACH VIA RESONATOR ANALYSIS CAUTION: DO NOT FULLY COMMIT TO SPECIFIC SOLUTION BEFORE ANALYSIS COMPLETE

  Ethan chose his words carefully. "The historical records show the previous incursion was stopped through a combination of harmonic disruption and focused energy. The dimensional resonator contains the key frequency data we need to disrupt Orlin's gate. With proper analysis, we might find a way to collapse it without requiring the same... sacrifices as before."

  Sewandel's eyes narrowed slightly. "You speak of the Guardian Alliance's last stand."

  "You know of it?" Lysandra asked, surprised.

  "Not all history is forgotten, young Guardian, merely kept from those who might misuse it." The Elder's voice carried centuries of weariness. "Seventeen of our greatest champions gave their life essence to seal the Void gate. Their sacrifice has been honored in private ceremonies for generations."

  Elder Elariel stood abruptly. "We should proceed with the analysis immediately. If there's any chance of finding an alternative solution, we must seize it."

  As the group moved toward Thaelon's laboratory, Ethan noticed Elder Thistlewood lingering behind. The ancient elf's movements seemed hesitant, almost confused. For a moment, Ethan thought he saw the Elder's hand move to his pocket, as if checking something was still there.

  BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS SUBJECT: ELDER THISTLEWOOD BEHAVIORAL ANOMALIES DETECTED: - DELAYED REACTIONS - SECRETIVE HAND MOVEMENTS - EXCESSIVE PERSPIRATION - PUPIL DILATION WHEN VIEWING VOID SAMPLES POTENTIAL INTERPRETATIONS: - MEDICAL CONDITION (AGE-RELATED) - ANXIETY RESPONSE TO CRISIS - POSSIBLE CORRUPTION INFLUENCE RELIABILITY: LOW (INSUFFICIENT DATA) RECOMMENDATION: MONITOR BUT DO NOT CONFRONT WITHOUT EVIDENCE

  Ethan filed away the observation. After witnessing Orlin's corruption, he couldn't afford to dismiss potential warning signs, but neither could he make accusations against a Council Elder without solid evidence. He followed the others into Thaelon's laboratory, but kept Elder Thistlewood in his peripheral vision.

  The Crystal Analyticum was a marvel of elven magical technology. The circular room contained a central pedestal surrounded by nine crystal pillars, each pulsing with different colored light. The ceiling was inlaid with constellations that subtly shifted position, while the floor featured intricate runic patterns that glowed faintly when stepped upon.

  "We'll start with the dimensional resonator," Thaelon announced, carefully transferring the sample to the central pedestal. "It should contain the frequency signature needed to stabilize—or destabilize—the Void gate."

  The archivist activated the apparatus with a series of precise gestures. The crystals surrounding the pedestal brightened in sequence, bathing the sample in kaleidoscopic light. Above the pedestal, a three-dimensional projection formed, displaying complex waveforms that rotated and intersected.

  "Fascinating," Thaelon murmured, adjusting controls on a nearby console. "The harmonics are extraordinarily complex—far more sophisticated than anything described in our historical records."

  Ethan activated his Analysis ability, interfacing with the elven technology through his System.

  ANALYTICAL INTERFACE ESTABLISHED HARMONIZING WITH EXTERNAL TECHNOLOGY: 84% COMPATIBILITY CROSS-REFERENCING DIMENSIONAL PHYSICS PARAMETERS ANALYZING RESONATOR FREQUENCY PATTERNS...

  As the analysis progressed, Ethan became increasingly aware of Elder Thistlewood's odd behavior. The ancient elf had positioned himself behind the others, near the laboratory entrance. His gnarled fingers repeatedly tapped against his robe pocket, and his eyes darted frequently toward the doorway, as if calculating escape routes.

  "Excuse me," Thistlewood suddenly announced, his voice trembling slightly. "I must... check something in the archives. Continue without me."

  Before anyone could respond, the Elder had slipped out of the laboratory. Ethan caught Lysandra's eye and tilted his head subtly toward the door. She responded with the barest nod, acknowledging his concern.

  "Elder Sewandel," Ethan said casually, "while the analysis runs, perhaps I could trouble you with a few questions about the Heart Tree's defensive measures? If Orlin is targeting it specifically, we should understand what protections already exist."

  The diversion worked. As Sewandel and Elariel engaged in a detailed explanation of the Heart Tree's magical defenses, Ethan motioned to Lysandra. Without a word, she slipped out of the laboratory, following Thistlewood's path.

  The analysis continued for another ten minutes, revealing increasingly complex data about the resonator's structure and function. Ethan split his attention between the technical details and the door, waiting for Lysandra's return.

  RESONATOR ANALYSIS COMPLETE KEY FINDINGS: - PRIMARY FREQUENCY: 438.92 VOID HERTZ (MATCHES HISTORICAL RECORDS) - SECONDARY MODULATION: TRIPLE-LAYERED PROTECTION SYSTEM - TARGETING COORDINATES: CONFIRMED AS HEART TREE LOCATION - UNIQUE SIGNATURE: CONTAINS "CREATOR'S MARK" - UNKNOWN SYMBOL CRITICAL INSIGHT: RESONATOR DESIGNED WITH BUILT-IN FAILSAFE POTENTIAL EXPLOITATION: REVERSE POLARITY COULD TRIGGER COLLAPSE

  "I believe we have something," Thaelon said, examining the projection. "The resonator contains a self-destruct mechanism—likely a safety measure for the creator. If we can replicate this specific counter-frequency," he pointed to a pulsing red waveform, "we might be able to trigger a harmonic cascade that would collapse the gate without the need for massive energy sacrifice."

  Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  Elder Sewandel studied the projection. "Can such a counter-frequency be generated?"

  "Theoretically, yes," Thaelon replied. "The Heart Tree itself could be used as an amplifier, though we would need a properly calibrated focus to direct the energy."

  The laboratory door swung open as Lysandra returned, her expression carefully neutral but her eyes communicating urgency to Ethan.

  "Pardon the interruption," she said smoothly. "Elder Thistlewood asked me to inform you he's been called away on an urgent matter. He extends his apologies."

  Ethan caught the subtle signal in her words—a predetermined phrase they had established during their journey to indicate trouble.

  "If you'll excuse me briefly," Ethan said, "I should check my System's integration with your technology. It seems to be encountering some interference."

  Outside the laboratory, Lysandra pulled him into an alcove, her voice barely above a whisper.

  "Thistlewood went directly to the communication chamber. I followed at a distance. He sent a message—I couldn't see the contents, but he used a crystal resonator similar to those used by Elderwood scouts."

  "That's not necessarily suspicious," Ethan reasoned. "He could be contacting other Elders."

  "True, but this was no standard communication. The crystal he used was black, Ethan. Black with purple veining—like the corruption samples we collected. And after sending the message, he destroyed the crystal."

  THREAT ASSESSMENT UPDATE EVIDENCE SUGGESTS POSSIBLE SECONDARY INFILTRATION SUBJECT: ELDER THISTLEWOOD SUSPICION LEVEL: MODERATE TO HIGH MISSING DATA: MESSAGE CONTENTS, RECIPIENT, DURATION OF POTENTIAL CORRUPTION WARNING: ACCUSATIONS AGAINST COUNCIL ELDER WITHOUT CONCRETE EVIDENCE COULD DAMAGE MISSION CREDIBILITY

  "We need to be careful," Ethan warned. "If Thistlewood is compromised, he's in a position to sabotage any countermeasures we develop. But if we're wrong, accusing a Council Elder would destroy our credibility when we need it most."

  Lysandra nodded grimly. "The prophecy warned of shadows within shadows. We may be facing more than one traitor."

  "Did you see where he went after sending the message?"

  "He left through the eastern exit, toward the Council's private quarters. I didn't follow further—too many guards would have noticed me."

  Ethan considered their options. "For now, we keep this between us. Let's focus on developing the counter-frequency. Once we have a concrete plan, we can decide how to handle Thistlewood's potential involvement."

  As they returned to the laboratory, Ethan's System flashed a warning:

  SECURITY ALERT DIMENSIONAL DISTURBANCE DETECTED LOCATION: APPROXIMATELY 0.8 MILES EAST SIGNATURE MATCHES VOID GATEWAY ACTIVATION PROBABILITY: ORLIN ACCELERATING TIMELINE RECOMMEND IMMEDIATE COUNTERMEASURE DEVELOPMENT

  Ethan's heart sank. They were running out of time.

  Back in the laboratory, the analysis had progressed further. Thaelon and the Elders had constructed a preliminary model of a counter-frequency generator, using the Heart Tree's natural energy as a power source.

  "The concept is sound," Thaelon was explaining, "but we would need to position the device at precisely the right distance from both the Heart Tree and the Void gate. Too close to either, and the harmonics would become destructive rather than disruptive."

  "We may need to accelerate our timeline," Ethan announced, deciding to share his System's warning. "I'm detecting signs that the Void gate is already being activated."

  Elder Sewandel's face hardened with resolve. "Then we have no time to waste. Elariel, summon the Guardian captains. We'll need a strike force to escort our counter-measure team."

  "Sir," Lysandra interrupted, "before we commit to a full mobilization, we should consider the possibility of further infiltration. Orlin is unlikely to be acting completely alone."

  The chamber fell silent as the implication settled. Elder Sewandel's eyes narrowed.

  "You suggest another traitor within the Council?" His voice was dangerously quiet.

  Ethan stepped forward. "We have no concrete evidence, Elder. But the corruption's pattern suggests strategic infiltration of leadership. Caution would dictate limiting knowledge of our exact plans to as few individuals as possible."

  Sewandel studied Ethan for a long moment, then nodded slowly. "A prudent approach. Elariel, summon only Captain Thalion and his most trusted lieutenants. Thaelon, how quickly can you construct this counter-measure device?"

  "With the proper materials, four hours at minimum," the archivist replied.

  "You have three," Sewandel stated flatly. "Mender, Guardian—assist the archivist. I will personally select the escort team."

  As the Elders departed to make preparations, Ethan and Lysandra exchanged concerned glances. The plan was moving forward, but the shadow of potential betrayal hung over them.

  Thaelon immediately set to work, directing them to gather specific crystals and materials from various cabinets around the laboratory. As they worked, Ethan kept his voice low.

  "If Thistlewood is compromised, he could warn Orlin or somehow sabotage the mission."

  "Or worse," Lysandra murmured, "he could lead us into a trap. The escort team will be vulnerable during the approach."

  Ethan carefully examined a blue crystal before placing it in the assembly Thaelon was constructing. "We need a contingency plan—something only we know about."

  As they continued assembling the counter-measure device, Ethan's mind raced through possibilities. The stakes couldn't be higher—the Heart Tree's corruption would mean the end of Elderwood. Yet moving against a Council Elder without proof could be disastrous.

  TACTICAL ASSESSMENT MISSION CRITICAL FACTORS: - COUNTER-MEASURE DEVICE MUST REACH DEPLOYMENT POINT INTACT - STRIKE TEAM VULNERABLE DURING APPROACH - POTENTIAL INSIDER THREAT MAY COMPROMISE MISSION - TIME PRESSURE ELIMINATES OPTION OF EXTENDED SURVEILLANCE RECOMMENDED APPROACH: CONTROLLED INFORMATION, OPERATIONAL SECURITY, CONTINGENCY PLANNING SPECIFIC TACTICS: - CREATE DECOY/ALTERNATE PLAN VISIBLE TO POTENTIAL INFILTRATOR - DEVELOP TRUE PLAN WITH MINIMAL PERSONNEL - ESTABLISH EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS INDEPENDENT OF COMMAND STRUCTURE

  "Thaelon," Ethan said, looking up from his work, "I need to make a small modification to the resonator assembly. My System suggests a calibration that might improve its effectiveness."

  The archivist nodded absently, focused on his own intricate work. "Of course, though our design is already quite optimized."

  Ethan carefully adjusted several components, subtly altering the device in a way that would be difficult to notice without close inspection. The changes wouldn't hamper its primary function but would add a secondary capability—one that only he would know about.

  "Guardian," he said to Lysandra, using her title to maintain formality in case they were being observed, "could you assist me with stabilizing this connection? My hands aren't steady enough for such delicate work."

  Lysandra understood the tacit communication. As she helped with the connection, Ethan whispered instructions so quietly that even Thaelon, just feet away, couldn't hear. Her fingers never faltered as she acknowledged the contingency plan with the slightest nod.

  Three hours later, the device was complete—a crystalline apparatus about the size of a small lantern, pulsing with swirling energy patterns that shifted between blue and gold. Thaelon placed it in a specially designed carrying case lined with protective wards.

  "It's ready," he announced with evident pride. "Once positioned at the calculated focal point, it should generate a counter-frequency strong enough to destabilize Orlin's gate."

  Elder Sewandel returned with Captain Thalion, a stern-faced Guardian with silvered armor and eyes that had seen countless battles. Behind them stood six elite Guardians, each bearing the marks of seasoned veterans.

  "The strike team is prepared," Sewandel announced. "You depart in thirty minutes. The plan is simple—reach the Void gate, deploy the counter-measure at the designated coordinates, and withdraw immediately. Under no circumstances is anyone to engage Orlin directly unless absolutely necessary."

  Captain Thalion stepped forward to examine the device and review the deployment coordinates. As the final preparations were made, Ethan noticed Elder Thistlewood had returned, lingering at the edge of the group. The ancient elf's expression was unreadable, but his eyes followed the counter-measure device with unusual intensity.

  WARNING SUBJECT THISTLEWOOD DISPLAYING ELEVATED INTEREST IN DEVICE PUPILLARY RESPONSE INDICATES POSSIBLE STRESS/ANTICIPATION POSITION SUGGESTS ATTEMPT TO GATHER OPERATIONAL DETAILS RECOMMEND MAINTAINING INFORMATION SECURITY PROTOCOLS

  As they prepared to depart, Ethan approached Elder Sewandel under the pretense of reviewing the map one last time.

  "Elder," he said quietly, "a suggestion, if I may. The more who know the exact route and timing, the greater the risk of interception. Perhaps the final approach coordinates should be known only to those directly involved in device deployment."

  Sewandel studied him for a moment, then gave a nearly imperceptible nod. "Captain Thalion," he called. "Adjust your protocol. Final approach coordinates will be sealed until you reach the outer perimeter of the Shadow Hollows."

  Ethan caught Thistlewood's minute reaction—a slight stiffening, a tightening around the eyes. It wasn't proof, but it reinforced his suspicions.

  As the team made final preparations, Lysandra approached Ethan, ostensibly checking his equipment.

  "Everything is in place," she murmured. "But I still don't like this. We're walking into darkness with potential enemies at our backs."

  "Sometimes the only way to expose a shadow," Ethan replied softly, "is to cast a brighter light." He tapped the counter-measure device's case. "And this little modification might just be bright enough to reveal any traitors in our midst."

  With that cryptic statement, he shouldered his pack and joined the strike team assembling at the Archive's entrance. The mission to save the Heart Tree was about to begin, but the shadow of betrayal loomed larger than ever.

  As they departed, Ethan cast one last glance back at the Council Elders. Thistlewood stood slightly apart from the others, his ancient face impassive. For just a moment, Ethan thought he saw the faintest purple gleam in the Elder's eyes—but it vanished so quickly he couldn't be certain it wasn't just a reflection from the Archive's crystals.

  MISSION STATUS: INITIATED PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: DEPLOY COUNTER-MEASURE DEVICE AT VOID GATE SECONDARY OBJECTIVE: IDENTIFY POTENTIAL INFILTRATORS COMPLICATING FACTORS: TIME PRESSURE, UNCERTAIN LOYALTIES, POSSIBLE AMBUSH SURVIVAL PROBABILITY: 27.3% (-2.4%)

  The declining survival probability didn't surprise Ethan anymore. As they stepped from the Archive into the forest, heading toward the Shadow Hollows, he found himself oddly calm. They were walking into what might well be a trap, led by someone who might be a traitor, to face an enemy with powers beyond their understanding.

  Just another day as a world-repairing IT analyst, he thought grimly, and followed the strike team into the gathering dusk.