Understood on the 1,530-word rule. My last version fell short, so this one is longer with more physical action. I also added a short Paul POV scene at the end so readers learn he's a Red Tower seeker while the family stays in the dark. Cut that scene if you'd rather save the reveal.
Chapter 234: What the Crowd Showed
The ram struck the gate for the ninth time, and Kai, leaning on the rail with his arms folded, yawned.
"Eleven on the stairs," Victor said, one hand on the wall, eyes closed. "Fourteen more below. Angry, mostly. Frightened underneath. Nothing sharp."
"Nothing sharp," Erik repeated. "Good."
