Chapter 258

Chapter 258
Iris's

I thought of my team scattered throughout the territory, gathering intelligence, ready to help if needed. Sebastien was likely watching from somewhere nearby, his protective instincts on high alert. The knowledge that I wasn't truly alone here strengthened my resolve.

"According to our traditions," Magnhild continued, "the bearer of the Alpha credential has the right to speak before the pack. Today, whatever she says, I hope everyone will respect this tradition and listen with open minds."

I took a deep breath and stepped to the center of the platform. The crowd suddenly grew quiet, hundreds of eyes focused on me at once. In this moment, I felt a strange calm, as if all worry and fear had temporarily retreated, leaving only the task at hand.

Remembering my agreement with Sebastien, thinking of the twins waiting at home, I knew the responsibility I carried. This wasn't just about removing the threat to my family; it was about trying to establish a new understanding and connection. I stood silently for a moment, allowing my presence to fill the space, then began my speech.

"People of the Northern European pack," I began, my voice echoing across the silent square. "First, I thank you for giving me this opportunity. I come from far away, standing here with peaceful intentions."

This opening had been carefully crafted during my wait, expressing both respect and signaling my purpose.

"I know many of you feel confused or even angry that I possess this credential." I raised my wrist, allowing the Alpha credential to catch the torchlight. "But I'm not here to fight for power. In fact, I have no desire to become an Alpha, nor to serve as Luna."

This statement caused a slight stir in the crowd. I continued: "I possess this credential because of fate's arrangement. But I came here because I learned someone was threatening my family to reclaim it." My voice grew more determined. "As a mother, protecting my family is my first priority. I believe everyone here can understand that feeling."

Mentioning family, I noticed some expressions softening. Even in werewolf society, family bonds held special meaning. I seized this emotional connection and pressed on.

"I want you to understand that I recognize the importance of this credential to the Northern European pack. But I also believe that a pack's strength doesn't merely depend on a symbol, but on how it adapts to changing times."

"Times have changed," I surveyed the crowd, ensuring everyone heard my words. "The world is evolving, human society transforming daily. As werewolves, we have two paths: either cling to tradition in isolation, or adapt to change, preserving the essence of tradition while embracing a broader world."

I noticed some younger pack members' eyes brightening, seeming to resonate with my words. "I believe that werewolves establishing themselves in the human world is the correct path for integration into contemporary society. This doesn't mean abandoning our identity and traditions, but giving them new meaning and vitality."

"Look at the world around us—technology, education, medicine, cultural exchange—these all provide unprecedented opportunities for werewolves. Why limit ourselves to forests and valleys? Why can't we be both werewolves and part of this vast world?" As I spoke, I thought of the businesses Sebastien and I separately managed, how we succeeded in human society while maintaining our werewolf identity and strength.

The crowd's reactions began to diverge. Younger members were clearly attracted to my perspective, exchanging glances and whispering among themselves. Some elders frowned, obviously uncomfortable with these "heretical" ideas. Erik stood to the side, his expression growing increasingly dark.

"I'm not here to tell you what to do," I softened my tone, aware I shouldn't appear too forceful. "Every pack has the right to choose its own path. But I hope you see that more possibilities exist. My partner and I, we're trying to establish a new way of life—respecting werewolf nature while integrating into modern society."

"As for this credential," I raised my wrist again, "it does carry important tradition and power. But true power doesn't come from an object, but from unity, adaptation, and wisdom. If the Northern European pack can find its own path in this new era, with or without this credential, you will flourish."

My words triggered more discussion, especially among the younger pack members. Even in the flickering torchlight, I could see hope's spark igniting—at least some people were considering what I'd said.

"Finally," I brought my speech to its climax, "I want to say that I'm not your enemy. I don't seek control or domination. I only want peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. If we can reach such an understanding, perhaps we can find a solution to this credential issue that satisfies both sides."

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When my speech ended, reactions across the square varied. Some younger pack members openly expressed agreement, discussing heatedly in their Nordic language, occasionally glancing my way, their eyes sparkling with new possibilities. Others remained skeptical, but at least they were thinking. This was already better than I'd expected.

Several elders exchanged glances, seemingly surprised by my perspective. Magnhild Elder nodded thoughtfully, obviously impressed by my words. I felt a surge of hope—if I could convince the elders, perhaps this crisis could truly be resolved peacefully.

Just as discussion grew louder, Erik suddenly strode onto the stone platform. His features twisted with anger, eyes burning with barely contained rage. He raised his hand for silence, then turned to me, voice dripping with sarcasm:

"Beautiful speech, stranger. Your wordplay is indeed impressive." His mockery was obvious, muscles tensed like a predator preparing to attack. "But let me tell you and everyone here—"

Erik turned to face his people, voice rising: "Every word this woman speaks is bullshit!"

His crude language caused a surprised intake of breath across the square. Several elders frowned, clearly displeased with his disrespect. But Erik continued:

"She talks about integrating into the human world? That will only weaken our strength, dilute our bloodline! She claims she doesn't want power? Then why doesn't she just hand over the credential?" His voice filled with suspicion and hostility. "Don't be fooled by her sweet words. Her only purpose in coming here is to divide us, weaken us!"

Erik's words instantly made the atmosphere tense. I could feel the energy shifting around me, some pack members who had looked favorably upon me beginning to hesitate, while those with conservative attitudes nodded in agreement. But I also noticed not everyone was convinced by his words—especially the younger generation, whose eyes still held thought and questioning.

"This is all bullshit!" Erik repeated loudly, his fist slamming onto the stone platform, voice echoing in the night sky.