There was an argument about patrol rotation.
Rowan had ordered Aria to sit out the next border sweep. "You're not ready," he said, his voice flat and final. "The terrain is rough, the rogues are close to the border. You'll stay here."
Aria stood in his study, her hands braced on the back of the chair she had refused to sit in. "I've been training for months. I've sparred with your warriors, and I've beaten Nyssa twice this week alone. I'm ready."
"You're wolfless."
The word landed like a stone. Aria's jaw tightened. "That hasn't stopped me before."
"It could stop you out there." Rowan crossed his arms. "This isn't a debate. You’re not going and that’s final."
"Then make me stay." Her voice was quiet. " it’s either you chain me to the training post or lock me in my room. Because that'
