Chapter 45: The Turning Tide

The room fell silent as the gravity of their words settled in. Then, one by one, council members began to rise. An older Abyssian man who had been a staunch opponent of the alliance spoke first, his voice trembling. "I have seen the changes in my children. They play with those they once viewed as enemies. I have felt the warmth of friendship where there was once only suspicion. Perhaps… perhaps there is hope in this unity."

His admission sparked a wave of responses, as more council members stood up to share their own experiences of reconciliation and newfound friendships. The atmosphere transformed from one of division to one of solidarity, and it became clear that the seeds of doubt and fear were being replaced by a burgeoning sense of community.

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