Freda Pov
The paper felt thick and rough against my skin.
I stood by the desk and watched Urdon read the letter for the third time. He was leaning his weight on his hands, and the wood of the desk creaked under him.
The morning light coming through the window showed the deep lines in his face. He didn't look like he had slept much.
"He wants the East Valley," Urdon said. He tapped a finger on the map spread out between us.
"That is half our hunting ground," I said.
"He calls it a protection fee," Urdon said. He pulled a chair out and sat down heavily. "He says if we give him the valley and the water rights, he will send ten of his best warriors to guard our walls. He says the Council is already making plans to move us out."
"Do you believe him?" I asked.
