The afternoon sun cast long shadows across Meltdown's main plaza as Mr. Leighton led his two students away from the City Lord's residence. His expression was grim, the weight of leadership heavy on his shoulders.
'Another alliance offer wrapped in honeyed words,' Leighton thought, his mind replaying the meeting. 'But Glaine's eyes hold the ambition of a man who sees people as pawns. Julian was right to warn us. Getting entangled in faction wars would only lead these children to an early grave. Our duty is survival, not conquest.'
He had politely but firmly declined Glaine's proposal, citing their need to remain neutral and focus on rebuilding their own community. The City Lord had accepted it with a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"Alright, let's prepare to return home," Leighton announced, his voice pulling his students from their thoughts.
