"When it comes to our own people, the rules are entirely different."
Douglas's gaze swept over each of them, and on their bewildered faces, he saw a flicker of flame beginning to kindle.
"I no longer consider only how to minimize risk."
"What I must consider is how to maximize gains."
He spoke each word distinctly, his voice carrying unquestionable authority.
"Your future, your dignity, your right to survive on this land-all of these have become my responsibility."
"So I will no longer let you hide forever in the gutters like hunted rats."
His voice rose, carrying a force that stirred their hearts.
"I will have you stand openly on your own territory like lions and tear apart every enemy who dares set foot here."
"You have entrusted your fate to me, so naturally, I must fight to secure the best possible future for you."
Douglas looked around at them, a mocking curve lifting the corner of his mouth, directed at the unseen enemies outside the cave.
"As for the Church and the Ministry of Magic? Let them watch."
"The more they see, the less they will dare act rashly."
"From the moment you chose to follow me, the rules on this chessboard became mine to make."
The entire cave fell utterly silent.
Only the crackling of the campfire remained.
Aldo was silent, the clouds of confusion already gone from his weathered face.
In their place was a kind of complete understanding born of profound shock.
Slowly, he bowed deeply, not out of courtesy, but in submission from the depths of his soul.
"We... understand."
The last trace of doubt vanished from the eyes of the werewolves around them.
Their awe and gratitude were ignited in that moment, transformed into almost fanatical reverence and absolute trust.
They finally understood that