I stepped forward and raised my voice. "Listen up everyone. We judge people by their choices, not their blood. These refugees survived the shadow's reach. They offer honest work. We test them fairly. Those who prove loyal join us. Those who hide ill intent face steel. Frostfang does not turn away the desperate without cause. But we protect our own first."
The decision settled over the hall with mixed reactions. Some cheered. Others murmured doubt. Solveig bowed deeply. "We accept your terms. Our people will prove worthy."
The refugees were housed in the outer quarters under watch. The pack returned to daily work with uneasy energy.
I walked the fields with the children that afternoon. Lila led the way with confident strides. Thorne examined the soil and suggested improvements. Elara gathered herbs for the healing halls. Their presence grounded me amid the new tension.
