KELLY THOMPSON'S POV

The chill of dawn barely clung to the air as I stood in the middle of the training grounds, my boots firm against the dew-kissed grass. A veil of mist draped over the royal palace's spires, casting spectral shadows that seemed to watch me with silent expectation. My heart hammered against my chest-a wild drumbeat echoing my tangled thoughts. Today was not just another day; it was a proclamation, a testament to our readiness, or lack thereof.

Elara had departed under the ...