|| Lilac's POV ||

As we left the council room, I glanced back at Alaric one last time. He was standing with Marcus, his expression dark but determined. Our eyes met, and for a moment, I felt a surge of hope. We would get through this. Together.

As we stepped out, reporters came to us, rushing.

'Mr Blackwood, have you seen the interview?'

'Mr. Blackwood, what are your thoughts?'

'Miss Blackwood, who's side are you now?'

'Miss Blackwood are you planning to ...