Kael’s POV
The journey had been long, stretching across clan borders, but I rode with unwavering focus. As we crossed into Bloodstone territory, an eerie silence greeted us.
The land was barren, lifeless—far too empty for a clan of its size. My warriors moved with sharp awareness, scanning every corner, but there was no need for a heightened sense of danger. The real threat wasn’t an external enemy.
It was neglect.
The few people we passed barely acknowledged our presence. Their eyes, once filled with strength, were hollow. Their clothes hung loose on their frail bodies, signs of starvation evident in the way they moved—slow, lethargic, hopeless.
My grip on the reins tightened.
This was not how I left them.
The Bloodstone Clan had once thrived under my reign. I had ensured their pro
