Page 63 of The Lycan King's Secret Child

Elias: "These are troubling times. The factions grow restless, and alliances are fragile."

Amelia: "Is there a way to broker peace? To make them back off?"

Elias: "Perhaps. But it would require concessions."

Xander: "Such as?"

Elias: "An agreement to share resources, territories. They may demand certain things... sacrifices."

Xander's jaw tightened.

Xander: "I won't put my family at risk."

Elias regarded him thoughtfully.

Elias: "Family changes everything, doesn't it?"

Amelia glanced at Xander, then back at Elias.

Amelia: "What would you suggest?"

Elias: "A gathering. Bring the leaders together under a truce. Open dialogue can sometimes achieve what force cannot."

Xander: "It's a risk."

Elias: "Yes, but one worth taking."

Amelia reached out, touching Xander's arm.

Amelia: "We have to try."

He looked into her eyes, seeing determination mirrored there.

Xander: Nodding "Very well. Arrange the gathering."

Elias smiled subtly.

Elias: "I will send out the invitations. In the meantime, you should prepare."

Amelia: "Prepare how?"

Elias: "Strengthen your alliances. Ensure your defenses are solid. And perhaps most importantly, be united in purpose."

They thanked Elias for his help and began the journey back to the estate.

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As they traveled, Amelia gazed out the window, deep in thought.

Xander: "Penny for your thoughts?"

Amelia: "I'm just hoping we're making the right decisions."

Xander: "Second thoughts?"

Amelia: "Not about us. Just about the path ahead."

He took her hand.

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