That’s not a debate.
That’s a threat.
The projection flickers out.
The plaza remains silent for a long moment.
“You’re losing ground,” I say quietly.
“Yes.”
“You knew this was coming.”
“Yes.”
“But it’s faster now.”
“Yes.”
I study the surrounding warriors. Their stares are no longer just suspicious.
They’re calculating.
“You bring Alliance sanction into our territory,” one warrior says aloud. “You bring scrutiny.”
“I bring truth,” Kael replies.
“And if truth costs us strength?” another demands.
“It prevents extinction,” he answers.
That doesn’t fully satisfy them.
I step closer to him.
“They’re scared,” I murmur.
“Yes.”
“And fear looks like aggression here.”
“Yes.”
My pulse quickens.
“If they motion for leadership review…”
“I defend my position.”
“In duel?”
“If necessary.”
The word hits me like a physical blow.
“You can’t be serious.”
“I am.”
