Kelly Thompson POV

"Mother, if we approach from the east, we can use the terrain to our advantage," Eden suggested, his strategy unfolding with a wisdom that swelled my heart with pride. His emergence as a leader was timely; his strength would be the tide that could turn this war.

Elara nodded, her silver hair catching the light as she leaned in to examine Eden's proposal. "Yes, the eastern pass is narrow. It will limit their numbers, give us the upper hand."

I watched them-my allies, my ...