I couldn't believe this. The moment I needed the support of my elders most, they had decided to use this opportunity to betray me. The irony was almost laughable here I was, dealing with a crisis that threatened everything I'd built, and they wanted to play politics.

"My mother is in this castle," I said, trying to keep my voice level. "I do not have time for disputes."

Elder Casimir crossed his arms, his weathered face set in stubborn lines. "Your personal concerns don't override pack ...