Contract With The Alpha King by Brey Mitchylle

Chapter 119

What happened back then only showed the abilities of the Rosenthal family" Councilman Lacson said, his gaze

fixed on the King. "Your Majesty, we need the Rosenthal family"

"| agree with Councilman Larson. This matter should be discussed with their Pack Alpha. We need the Rosenthal

family," Councilwoman Mariya Weeson chimed in. Her voice was calm, almost rehearsed, as though she had

been waiting for the perfect moment to interject. "I mean, with the threats of both the Lycans and Rogues-

"Slow down.." King Nicholas interrupted, pinching the bridge of his nose as irritation flickered across his face. "I

believe this isn't the tfor that" His eyes swept the room, noting how eager the council members were to

voice their opinions. Their enthusiasm wasn't for the kingdom-it never was. He sighed, already tired of the

political maneuvering.

These people only wanted what would benefit them. The well-being of the werewolf community was always an

afterthought, a convenient pretense to push their agendas. Did they not realize how transparent they had

become?

"Lady Fiona was just healed, King Nicholas continued. "I don't think her father is going to leave the kingdom

immediately. We have tto discuss these matters once Lady Fiona wakes up. His gaze shifted to the Queen,

who remained unusually silent. Then he smiled, though the expression didn't reach haveyes. "Tonight, there will

be an event, and | would like you all to attend. Especially for Lord Rosenthal"

"Your Majesty, | don't think there is a need for that," Lord Rosenthal said as he stepped into the tent. His voice

carried an edge, drawing the attention of everyone present "I only chere to ensure my daughter's recovery.

There is no need for such flair." "Lord Rosenthal, let's not forget that the poison Lady Fiona endured isn't

something an ordinary werewolf could survive," Queen Luna said, stepping forward. Her tone was steady, but her

hands were clasped tightly, betraying her uncase, "Please, let us honor your efforts. | beg of you"

The room fell silent, a tension thick enough to choke. All eyes turned to Thomas, waiting for his response. He

smiled faintly, a polite expression that did little to mask his growing irritation. "I apologize, but-"

"Lord Rosenthal Councilman Lacson interjected smoothly. "Your daughter healed hundreds of people. She is a

hero. If we do not show the shospitality to her father, the villagers-and even the kingdom-might think we

are still thinking about politics. Please, for the sake of the kingdom's peace."

Thomas Rosenthal stood at the entrance of the tent, his sharp gaze fixed on the assembled members as their

words sank in. The audacity of their feigned reverence and subtle manipulation only made her more irritated.

However, he was sane enough to keep his expression neutral. They spoke of "peace," of "hospitality," their words

woven with carefully hidden barbs meant to corner hinrinto compliance.

Peace! Thomas thought bitterly. These people wouldn't know peace if it struck them across their pompous faces.

Every syllable they uttered was a calculated move, designed to further their own interests under the guise of

diplomacy.

"Please, Lord Rosenthal Queen Luna's voice cut through the tension, her hands clasped in front of her as she

stepped closer. "This is not just matter of celebration. It is a symbol of unity-a reassurance to the kingdom that

even in times of strife, we ctogether to honor those who uphold our values."

Thomas's lips tightened. Unity! The very concept was laughable coming from this group. These council members

cared nothing for unity. They werewolves circling prey, each vying to carve out their share of the spoils. The

Rosenthal nwasn't a banner for peace-it was a tool, a weapon they sought to world for their own ends.

"Lord Rosenthal, Councilman Larson said. "Your abilities, and by extension your family's legacy, have been a

pillar of strength for the werewolf kingdom. To refuse such an honor might be misunderstood by the people. They

may see it as indifference to their struggles." The implication in Larson's words was clear, though masked behind

layers of politeness. Refuse, and you'll be seen as selfish. Thomas's jaw clenched imperceptibly. He despised how

they twisted the narrative to force his hand.

"Inderd Councilwoman Mariya Weeson chimed in, her posture regal and her gaze calculating. "Lady Fiona's

actions saved countless lives and your efforts today have ensured her survival. It is only fitting that we

acknowledge this publicly. Otherwise, it may saw discord among the villagers

nd"-slie paused, lening the weight of her words linger-"Even among the packs"

Discord! Thomas almost scoffed aloud. The councilwoman's concern for discord had nothing to do with the

villagers or packs. She was worried about losing control, alanit factions rising that might threaten her carefully

constructed alliances,

"Your Majesty." Thomas said, inclining his head toward King Nicholas, "I appreciate the sentiment, but my priority

is my daughter's recovery. | do not require recognition for doing my duty as her father." He wasn't done. He could

still stay next to Fiona while she recovers' He needed to know how Fiona was able to control her ability like that.

He needed to End out who trained led

The King frowned, his gaze flickering to the council members before settling on Thomas. "Lord Rosenthal," he

said. "This is not merely about recognition. It is about showing the people that we stand together in times of

hardship. The kingslom looks to its leaders for guidance and

reassurance

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Chapter 119

Thomas inwardly seethed at the King's deliberate choice of words, Guidance? Reassurance? They didn't care

about guiding anyone-they cared about appearances. About placating the masses just enough to maintain their

grip on power. And why do these people speak like this!! All pretense!

Another council member, a younger man with sharp eyes and a faint smirk, leaned forward slightly. "If I may,

Lord Rosenthal, declining such an invitation could be... misinterpreted. It might raise questions about the

Rosenthal family's commitment to the kingdom's well- being." Thomas's hand curled into a fist at his side, his

nails biting into his palm. Misinterpreted? Commitment! These men and women were masters of veiled threats,

their words cutting deeper than any blade. He had no choice but to tread carefully, lest he give them the

ammunition they sought

He forced a calm smile, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Councilman," he said. "| trust the people of this kingdom

understand the gravity of my daughter's condition. My focus remains on her recovery, as it should."

"And what better way to show the kingdom her progress," Mariya interjected smoothly. "Than by attending this

gathering in her honor? A celebration of her resilience, and of your efforts to save her.

Thomas's rage simmered beneath the surface. They were painting him into a corner. Refuse, and he would be

branded as ungrateful, and indifferent to the kingdom's needs. Agree, and he would be playing directly into their

hands, allowing them to use the Rosenthal nas a banner for their schemes.

They were pastung him toward a decision, each of their carefully crafted arguments nudging him closer to

compliance. This is the reason why he wanted to stay away from the palace! If this is a normal occasion, he

would have already walked out of this tent and out of this village. He thought about Lysander and smiled. "Your

Majesty." Thomas said finally, turning to the King "I will attend your gathering. For the sake of the kingdom's

peace. The words tasted bitter on his tongue, but he delivered them with practiced rase. A ripple of satisfaction

passed through the room. The council members exchanged subtle glances, their hidden agendas momentarily

aligned. And Thomas saw through it all, every false smile and approving nod. He had given them what they

wanted, but it was a hollow victory

"Excellent," King Nicholas said, his expression brightening. "Do not worry, my Lord. | am going to ensure that you

and your family will be comfortable during your stay." 1:20 PM