The Ascended being had given similar instructions.
Prepare. Unite. Face what's coming together rather than separately.
"What would this alliance look like practically?" Wendelina asked.
"What would you ask of the Covens?"
"Coordination of defensive efforts," Beatrice said promptly.
"Particularly in the north. Intelligence sharing. Combined operations against demon incursions. Perhaps most importantly—a commitment to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than force."
"And in return?"
"Imperial resources. Military support where needed. Political backing for Coven operations. And..."
Beatrice hesitated slightly, "personal commitment from both Baelyna and myself to honor Coven autonomy. This isn't about imperial control. It's about partnership between equals."
Wendelina studied them both.
The offer seemed genuine. But decades of political maneuvering made her cautious of anything that seemed too good.
"I'll need to consult with my council," she said carefully.
