SAVED BY THE LYCAN KING (Elisa)

FERRIS' POV

I sat in the boardroom with Jackson and the council of his pack. Jackson sat at the head of the table.

I leaned in my chair, trying to maintain a calm demeanor but on the inside, I was filled with so much frustration and anger that I found it hard to keep it in. My thoughts kept drifting back to Elise, to everything Jackson must have done to her.

I clenched my fists under the table, forcing myself to focus on the meeting. This meeting was important. We were here to discuss strategies to deal with the rival packs and to bring about a much-needed peace. I had to keep my emotions in check, at least for now.

I wished I could see Elise, just to set my eyes on her and make sure she was okay. I knew she was in the palace but I didn't know where.

I might have to ask some of the workers here. I was so near to her and still, I felt far from her. Jackson cleared his throat and spoke up.

"We are facing threats from the rival packs. We need to make up a strategy that not only secures our safety but also opens up avenues for alliances and trade. The rivalry has caused issues with our trade these past few months. Things are getting worse"

An elder spoke up "We should consider approaching the Lyceria pack. They have been neutral for a long time and might be open to an alliance."

Jackson shook his head "Neutrality can be a sign of weakness.. We need strong allies, not fence-sitters."

I couldn't hold back any longer. "Neutrality can also be a sign of wisdom, Jackson. The Lyceria pack could provide a stable partnership, given the right incentives."

Jackson's gaze shifted to me, his eyes narrowing slightly. "And what incentives would you suggest, king Ferris?"

"Trade agreements. They have resources you lack, and you can offer them protection in return. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement."

"Protection, your highness? You think offering protection is enough to sway them? They have remained neutral because they don't trust anyone. Offering them protection might be seen as a threat."

"Not if you approach them with respect and a genuine offer of collaboration," I'd do anything to wipe off the smirk off his face. The sight of him alone made menoveldrama

ver

annoyed. He thought he was so high and mighty.

5

Jackson waved his hand dismissively. "Your idea is admirable, but not practical. We need to show strength, not appeasement."

I bit back a retort, feeling the frustration inside me rise even more. Every time I

tried to contribute, Jackson found a way to belittle my ideas.

It was clear he was doing this deliberately, and it infuriated me. But I couldn't let him see how much he was getting to me.

Another Slender spoke up "the Lycan King has a point. We should consider all options before dismissing them. Forming alliances through trade could strengthen our position without conflict."

Jackson's eyes flicked to the elder. "Of course, Miriam. All options should be considered. But we must remember that our primary objective is to ensure the safety and dominance of our pack."

The discussion continued, with various elders offering their insights. I tried to focus on the strategies being proposed, but my mind kept drifting back to Elise.

I hoped she was okay. Finally,

another elder spoke. "We must find a

balance between strength and

diplomacy. King Ferris' suggestion of trade agreements is worth

exploring, as is Alpha's Jackson's emphasis on showing strength. Perhaps we can combine these approaches."

Jackson tilted his head slightly "Very well. We'll consider both strategies. King Ferris, if you believe in this trade approach, you can enlighten us on how to go about it"

He smiled at me in a mocking way. I clenched my fists tightly on the table. "Of course" I said through gritted teeth.