Page 60 of King's Reckoning
The Devils contingent entered led by Cole, who carried a thick portfolio of files. Since forming their alliances, his people had been instrumental in tracking corporate responses to the historical evidence release, ensuring that legal challenges were properly addressed.
"Multiple cases filed," he reported without preamble, spreading court documents across the conference table. "Historical claims being evaluated by federal judges, land commissions, tribal authorities—all proceeding with full authentication support."
"Blackwood's people are shifting strategy," King added, studying the documents. "Moving from outright denial to negotiated settlements in several key territories."
Rowan nodded, feeling the weight of responsibility settle onto her shoulders. The alliance wasn't just about maintaining peacebetween chapters anymore. They wanted justice, to finally have what was rightfully theirs recognized across the region.
"What about the expert witness network?" she asked. "Any intimidation attempts?"
"Everything's secure," Reed replied. His professional demeanor was perfect, but Rowan caught the warmth in his eyes when their gazes met. "Multiple chapters coordinating protection duties, ensuring academic experts can testify without fear of reprisal."
More leaders arrived as they talked—King's Chosen, Iron Fists, Satan's Riders, all gathering for this historic meeting. Rowan watched them interact, noting how old rivalries had been replaced by cautious cooperation.
"Quite a change," King commented quietly, joining her at the head of the table. "A month ago, these men would have been at each other's throats. Now they're sharing legal resources and coordinating witness protection."
"Amazing what standing together for a common purpose will do," Rowan replied. "Though having shared heritage helps too. Something bigger than territory disputes to recognize and protect."
The meeting began formally, each chapter reporting on their assigned responsibilities within the alliance. Rowan listened carefully, asking questions and coordinating resources where needed. This was what Elena had prepared herfor—not just understanding the historical evidence they protected, but leading people effectively.
"Legal support teams are established in all key jurisdictions," Cole reported. "Operating under legitimate law firm cover but coordinating with alliance resources. Anyone investigating will just see standard legal representation, not our coordinated approach."
"Good," Rowan replied. "Maintaining professional appearances is crucial as these cases proceed. Speaking of which, how are the brothers handling the transition from territorial rivalries to cooperation within the alliance?"
"Better than expected," Reed said. "Having a clear purpose, shared interests to protect... it's actually easier than maintaining old rivalries. The legal victories we're already seeing help too." His lip quirked slightly. "Though some still prefer the old territorial mindset. Old habits die hard."
Laughter rippled through the gathered leaders, easing some of the meeting's formality. Rowan felt pride warm her chest as she watched them interact—rivals becoming allies, old wounds healing as they worked together toward common goals.
"Next on the agenda," Rowan continued, drawing attention back to alliance business, "security upgrades for historical documentation centers. Barbara's team has completed the authentication protocols for the remaining historical records."
The professor pulled up detailed documentation on the main screen. "We've been implementing comprehensive verification chains for all historical evidence. The authentication methodology Elena developed ensures these records can withstand any legal challenge."
"Corporate response?" Cole asked, leaning forward to study the data.
"Shifting," Reed replied. He moved to the screen, highlighting specific case developments. "They're moving from outright denial to negotiated settlements in several territories. Blackwood's clients recognize they can't suppress this evidence anymore. Now they're working to minimize financial impact."
"Progress," Rowan said with quiet satisfaction. "Slow but meaningful. The truth is finally being acknowledged, even if they're still fighting over the implications."
"Which is why we need to maintain our coordinated approach across all jurisdictions," Barbara continued. She switched to new diagrams showing case distribution across various courts. "Consistent authentication methodologies, coordinated expert testimony, unified historical narrative across all venues."
Discussion broke out among the gathered leaders as they debated implementation details. Rowan watched them work together, noting how naturally they now coordinated between chapters.
King's voice cut through the conversation. "What about the community outreach programs? We've got legitimate historical preservation projects to support alongside legal challenges."
"Already established," Tiffany spoke up. She pulled up documentation showing community initiatives across multiple territories. "Historical education programs, cultural preservation projects, documentation centers open to the public—all providing legitimate community benefits while supporting our broader goals."
Rowan nodded approvingly. The community programs had become their public face—legitimate historical preservation efforts that provided cover for more sensitive operations while genuinely benefiting local communities. Just as Elena had always intended.
"Speaking of community impacts," Cole added, "my people identified another historical site with significant documentation. Records that correspond directly with claims currently being evaluated by the federal commission."
He spread photographs across the table showing an old church with what appeared to be a historical records room. The site looked well-preserved, its potential significance clear to everyone present.
"Location?" Rowan asked, studying the images.
"Just outside Devils territory. We've had preservation experts assess it, and thedocumentation appears authentic and significant to several pending cases."
"Authenticated?" Reed asked.
Cole nodded. "Preliminary verification complete. These records provide additional corroboration for claims already in process. They could help expedite settlements in several key territories."
