The neutral ground is a clearing where Blackthorn territory meets unclaimed wilderness—technically nobody's land, which makes it the only legal place for this meeting. Three helicopters sit in the grass like predatory birds, their rotors slowly spinning down.
Alpha King Alaric stands at the center with ten of his Elite Warriors flanking him in tactical formation. I recognize some of them. Trained beside them. Shared meals and missions and the camaraderie of people who fight together.
Now they're here to bring me back. By force if necessary.
Our vehicle stops fifty yards away. Kade, Kieran, and I exit, followed by Delta Kyle and six Blackthorn warriors. The numbers are even, but everyone here knows Alaric's people are better trained.
He taught them himself. Just like he taught me.
Alar
