KALEB’S POV

The council chamber reeked of dust and old people.

“I said no more delays.” My fists slammed the table hard enough to rattle the cups. “We need every warrior in training, even the young. The rogues are closing in. Do you want to wait until they’re inside our homes before you take me seriously? Everyone should be able to defend themselves.”

Elder Karr sniffed, eyes narrowed with the same disdain he’d carried since my father died.

“And you think you can lead a war ...