Viktor leaned forward immediately. "Another ride with outsiders? You risk our wolves on unproven alliances while the east eats our farms. Tradition kept us strong for generations. This path invites weakness."
Lila met his gaze evenly. "Tradition also left patrols dead in the snow because pride refused help. We lost good people last season standing alone. Unity brings more eyes and steel. Magnus's men follow my captains. No secrets, no hidden debts. That was the bargain, and it holds."
Hedda spoke up, practical as always. "The market feels it already. Traders avoid eastern routes. Families talk of moving inward. Better to meet the threat now than strain stores feeding refugees later."
