“Alaric is safe.” I cut him off because I couldn't let doubt creep in.
“Cassius will protect him. That's what we're trusting. That's what we have to believe.”
“And the rest of the threat?” Martin asked, having read over Kael's shoulder.
“Burning Black River? Scattering our people?”
“She'd do that anyway,” Helena pointed out.
“Whether Sophia surrenders or not. This is just her trying to make it look like she offered mercy before the slaughter.”
“Probably,” I agreed.
“But we should put it to a vote. Let the people decide if my life is worth their potential safety.”
“No,” Kael said immediately.
“No?” I raised an eyebrow.
“No,” he repeated firmly.
“We're not putting your life up for democratic debate. That's not how leadership works.”
“Funny. Yesterday you were arguing for mor
