Chapter 99

• Kael’s Pov
• When we finally wrapped up the farewell rites for Elder Rowen, a heaviness lifted off my chest, though the clan still carried the weight of grief. Elder Rowen had been more than just a voice of wisdom; he had been a bridge between restless hearts and order. His absence left a silence so loud, it echoed across every soul in our midst.
• I decided to take a walk through the clan grounds with Alera. The people needed reassurance, and though I wasn’t the best at words, sometimes presence alone was enough. Children peeked from behind their mothers’ skirts as we passed, and men gave me respectful nods, their eyes shadowed with worry.