A Meeting of Minds

As the villagers dispersed, two of Victor’s closest allies approached him: Maren, a wiry, sharp-eyed woman with a talent for organizing people, and Elias, a broad-shouldered man with an easy smile who was both Victor’s muscle and his charm in equal measure.

“You’ve got them eating out of your hand,” Maren said, crossing her arms as she scanned the square. “Even the Creche don’t push back anymore.”

Victor smirked, leaning casually against a wooden post. “It’s not about force, Maren. It’s about making them think they want what I want.”

Elias laughed. “And what is it you want, exactly? You still haven’t told us.”

Victor’s smile widened, his eyes gleaming. “All in good time. For now, it’s enough that they trust me. Change happens when you build momentum. Push too fast, and you break something.”

Maren raised an eyebrow. “You’re sure you’re not breaking something already? People are talking. The old ways don’t die quietly.”

Victor shrugged. “Let them talk. What matters is results. The fields are better protected, the village is safer, and the Weavers listen to us. Progress is messy, Maren.”

Elias nodded approvingly. “And profitable, if you play your cards right.”

Victor clapped him on the shoulder. “Exactly. Now, let’s focus on the next step.”