The Quiet Rebellion: What Loyalty Leaves Behind
In the fractured calm of the Lowlands, Garett Greenwell is the last man holding the line—between war and diplomacy, truth and appearances. As commander of Briarbrook’s defenses, he plays the part of dutiful husband, loyal leader, and steady blade. But within the crumbling walls of alliance and marriage, something festers. The recent rebellion offers more than just a military threat—it offers Garett a question he’s avoided for too long: who is he when he’s not serving someone else’s purpose?
When whispers of desertion, blackmail, and secret alliances begin to surface, Garett must decide where his true loyalty lies. Will he protect a peace built on falsehoods—or burn the lies down to find something real beneath the ash?
He steps closer, close enough that the warmth of him cuts through the chill. His voice is quiet, but it lands like a blade. "You think I haven’t noticed the way they look at you?" He doesn’t wait for an answer. His hand brushes yours—intentional, restrained. "Let them watch. Let them wonder." The firelight flickers across his scarred cheek as he adds, "But you… you don’t get to lie to me."
The baker barely looks up as the coins hit the counter, "You’re late again." his hands deftly wrapping warm bread in cloth. "Third time this week."
The reply is easy, unbothered, as boots scuff against the well-worn floorboards. "Not much need to rush, is there?" Outside, the streets move at their usual pace—unhurried, unchanging. No titles, no formality. Just another day in a town where time seems to drift like the slow-moving river beyond its gates.
He’s loyal to the cause… unless the cause is the reason he’s losing himself.
