"Tell us the name," Elena pressed, studying the frightened soldier carefully. "Whoever this hidden commander was, speak it now."
The soldier's eyes flickered nervously between Elena and Logan, something calculating settling beneath his obvious fear despite his previous admission. "I will only speak properly," he said slowly, "once I understand exactly what protection awaits me should I reveal everything I know."
"You hold no bargaining position," Finnian said sharply, stepping closer now.
"Perhaps not," the soldier acknowledged, "but I possess information considerable enough that its complete revelation might prove the only thing standing between you and whatever remains of this conspiracy's final, hidden purpose."
Elena studied him carefully, recognizing genuine value within his appar
