CHAPTER FORTY ONE - The Weight Of Inherited Chains

Christine Kane sat at the head of the long oak table, presiding over the council with effortless authority. Alexander sat to her right, his expression thoughtful as he listened to the security report. "Border incursions have increased fifteen percent since last month," Gabriel was saying. "Mostly lone wolves, but some show signs of Red Crescent affiliation." Christine frowned. "Viktor testing our responses." "Or looking for his daughter," Alexander suggested quietly. The room fell silent. Lucas, seated beside his father, tensed visibly. "His dead daughter," Christine corrected, her tone leaving no room for debate. "Lucas, what's your assessment of our current patrol rotations?" Lucas straightened. "We need more coverage on the eastern border. The river crossing is vulnerable during these cold snaps when parts freeze over." Christine nodded approvingly. "Vanessa, your family has property near that sector. Any insights?" Vanessa, who had somehow secured a seat at the council tabl