“His reach won’t extend past death,” I say, voice hardening. “And that’s what’s coming for him.”
“You know he’s just the tip of the iceberg, right?” says the sharp-featured man from earlier. “Behind Creed is an entire network of dragon leaders. You can take him down, but you won’t get rid of the rot at the top.”
“I don’t think she needs a lesson on Syndicate politics, Otto,” Talon says coldly.
“Maybe I do,” I find myself saying. “Maybe I need to know who to take out.”
The room falls silent, tension thickening the air.
“Vengeance is a luxury we can’t afford,” Viktor says finally. “We need strategy, not emotion.”
“Easy to say when you haven’t seen what I have,” I snap, anger flaring hot and bright.
Talon’s hand finds mine beneath the table, a silent show of support. On my other side, Hargen tenses, noticing the gesture.
“What exactly are you proposing?” Talon asks Viktor, redirecting the conversation.
“We approach the Cravens. Offer an alliance. Our resources, the Shard, Lila’s abilities, in exchange for their protection and cooperation against our common enemies.”
“And if I refuse?” I ask, the question pointed.
Viktor’s gaze hardens. “This is bigger than individual choice, Lila. The Syndicate and the Circle both want a world where dragons rule through fear and dominion. Is that the future you want for your daughter?”
The manipulation is obvious but effective. I think of Elena, finally found after so long. Of the visions showing her with Caleb Craven, their connection, their shared destiny. The happiness she deserves.
“I have every intention of finding my way to the Cravens. Not for you. For my daughter. We’ve been apart for too long. But I want her safe,” I say. “And I won’t be another puppet. Not yours, not anyone’s. That’s non-negotiable.”
Murmurs ripple around the table. Viktor studies me, reassessing.
“She’s right,” Talon says unexpectedly. Heads turn toward him. “Forcing her hand makes us no better than the Syndicate. If we’re truly care about balance and choice, we start by respecting hers.”
I feel a surge of gratitude, of connection to him that deepens what started in that cabin.
“A principled stand,” Viktor acknowledges. “But principles won’t stop the Syndicate or the Circle.”
“Neither will coercion,” I counter. “You want me as an ally? Treat me like one. Not an asset. Not a weapon. A person with free will.”
Tabitha’s lips curve slightly. “I like her,” she says to Viktor. “She has spine.”
Viktor sighs, conceding the point for now. “Very well. We approach the Cravens but with full transparency about the decision being yours.” He fixes me with an intense stare. “But consider this: your daughter may be safe for now, but she’s also unskilled. Unaware of her full potential. You could help her understand what she is, what she can do.”
The appeal lands as intended, stirring maternal instincts long suppressed but never extinguished. My little girl grew up without knowing her heritage, her power, her blood. Her mother.
“I’ll consider it,” I say, already knowing that I’m going to agree to it but needing it to be on my terms.
Viktor nods, apparently satisfied with this small victory. “The council will convene again tomorrow to finalize our approach strategy. Until then, I suggest everyone get some rest. Particularly you,” he adds, nodding to me. “You’ve been through more than anyone should ever have to bear, Lila.” There’s a gentleness to his words that I find more persuasive than anything he’s said so far.
I give a small nod, not trusting myself to speak. I’ve learned to withstand abuse in so many forms and come out stronger. But kindness? That leaves me floundering.
The meeting breaks, people dispersing with purpose. Hargen rises stiffly beside me, pain evident in the tightness around his eyes despite the healing magic.
“We should talk,” he says quietly. “About the ritual. About… everything.”
I nod, though anxiety flutters in my chest. “Later. When you’re stronger.”
His eyes flick to Talon, then back to me. “Don’t wait too long, Lila. Some conversations need to happen while they can still matter.”
He walks away, each step careful but determined. Guilt twists in my gut, watching him go.