Page 22 of King’s Reckoning (Blind Jacks MC #5)

The first council meeting of the new alliance took place exactly one month after the confrontation at the hospital. Rowan studied the renovated command center that had once been the clubhouse's main chapel, taking in the sophisticated communications equipment and security systems Barbara had helped design. The space perfectly balanced modern needs with the MC's traditional aesthetics.

"Secure connections are established,"

Barbara reported, running final checks on their networks.

"All chapter representatives can participate remotely if needed, though most are here in person for the inaugural session."

"Good,"

Rowan replied, watching as leaders from multiple MCs filed into the room. The old church pews had been replaced with a conference setup that retained enough rough-edged charm to feel authentic.

"How's the authentication system holding up?"

"Flawlessly. Elena's systems programming was remarkably comprehensive. I've never seen anything this thorough."

Barbara's eyes gleamed with admiration.

"The methodology she developed has already become a model for other preservation projects."

Rowan smiled slightly, remembering how her mother had always worked far ahead of her time. Even now, months after her death, Elena's carefully laid groundwork was still supporting their efforts.

"Incoming,"

Reed murmured, appearing at Rowan's shoulder. His touch on her back was professional, but she felt the familiar warmth of his presence.

"Devils leadership just arrived with those legal documents you requested."

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 peace between 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 her for—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 the documentation 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."

A sense of purpose filled the room. The justice they sought was gaining momentum, with each new discovery strengthening their case for recognition of legitimate land claims.

"I want full authentication protocols implemented,"

Rowan directed.

"Multiple experts documenting chain of custody, comprehensive verification. When these records are presented in court, they need to be unassailable."

"Already in progress,"

Reed confirmed. His hand brushed her shoulder briefly—professional but reassuring.

The meeting continued, covering everything from community outreach to educational initiatives. Rowan coordinated it all with quiet confidence, drawing on both Elena's preparation and her own growing leadership experience.

"One last item,"

she said as they approached the end.

"Coordination between chapters for the heritage celebration next month. We need to show unity while respecting individual chapter traditions."

"Already outlined,"

King replied. He distributed documents showing proposed arrangements.

"Framework that honors each chapter's unique heritage while emphasizing our shared history and common purpose."

"Well thought out,"

Cole commented, reviewing the materials.

"Maintains individual chapter identity while creating a unified public presence."

More discussion followed as leaders worked out practical details. Rowan watched them problem-solve together, taking pride in how smoothly they now collaborated. The alliance was becoming something stronger than any individual chapter. Exactly as Elena had envisioned.

"Speaking of celebrations,"

Tiffany said innocently as the meeting wound down.

"how's the wedding planning coming along? Since we're talking about unifying traditions and all..."

Rowan groaned while several leaders poorly concealed their amusement. The wedding had become something of a symbol for the alliance—representatives from all chapters working together to plan a celebration instead of fighting over territory.

"Please tell me we're not discussing wedding arrangements during an official council meeting,"

she pleaded.

"Of course not,"

Tiffany replied with a grin.

"That's what the afternoon planning session is for. Which you are not missing this time, no matter how many 'urgent alliance matters' suddenly appear."

"Traitor,"

Rowan muttered to Reed as he failed to hide his smile.

"Sorry,"

he murmured.

"Even I'm not brave enough to cross Tiffany when she's in wedding planner mode."

The meeting continued, covering final details of legal strategy and community outreach. Rowan coordinated it all with quiet confidence, drawing on both Elena's careful preparation and her own growing leadership experience.

"One last item,"

she said as they wrapped up.

"Barbara's been analyzing the remaining historical records, looking for patterns that might help expedite the recognition process. Anything that strengthens our position in ongoing negotiations."

The professor displayed a comprehensive timeline on the main screen.

"Elena documented historical land use patterns that clearly establish continuous occupation and resource stewardship. These records provide powerful evidence for the claims currently under review."

Barbara's explanation carried the clear precision of an experienced professor, breaking down complex archaeological concepts into terms everyone could grasp. Her years in academia had equipped her with both the knowledge to understand these historical patterns and the ability to communicate their significance effectively. Across the room, Ace nodded in quiet approval, a hint of pride in his eyes as he watched her command the room with her expertise.

"She built an indisputable case,"

King said softly.

"Years of careful documentation, preservation of evidence that others wanted buried."

"Which is why we need to maintain both the alliance and our commitment to the truth,"

Rowan added firmly.

"Support the legal process while ensuring these records receive proper consideration. Protect the evidence while ensuring it reaches the right authorities."

Agreement rippled through the gathered leaders. They had all seen the power of united purpose, had worked together to ensure historical justice. Now they would continue that work until proper recognition was achieved.

The meeting ended with plans for regular council sessions and continued cooperation between chapters. As leaders filed out, Rowan felt Reed's hand slip into hers.

"Proud of you,"

he said quietly.

"You handled that perfectly. Found the balance between direction and collaboration."

"Learned from the best,"

Rowan replied, squeezing his fingers.

"Between Mom's preparation and watching you and Dad lead...I had good examples to follow."

Reed tugged her closer, his mask of professionalism dropping now that they were mostly alone.

"Speaking of learning,"

he murmured against her ear.

"When do I get to learn what's in those secret wedding plans?"

Rowan laughed, turning to face him properly.

"After the ceremony. Though I might be convinced to share a few details..."

She stretched up to kiss him, slow and sweet.

"Over dinner tonight?"

"Using wedding secrets to secure a date,"

Reed observed with a smile. "Clever."

"Is it working?"

His expression softened with genuine affection.

"Always works. You could suggest reviewing legal briefs in the garage and I'd still say yes."

"Because you love me?"

"Because I love you,"

he agreed, pulling her close.

"More than I thought possible."

Rowan melted into his embrace, soaking in his warmth and support. They had accomplished so much already.

And they would continue that work together, building something stronger than old rivalries or territorial disputes.

Creating a future worth protecting. Worth fighting for.

Worth living for.

"Rowan!"

Tiffany's voice cut through the moment.

"Stop canoodling with your fiancé and come approve these venue options!"

Reed laughed as Rowan groaned against his chest.

"Sounds like wedding planning waits for no one."

"Tell them I've been kidnapped by corporate lawyers,"

Rowan muttered.

"Or better yet, actually rescue me. Take me somewhere with no color schemes to approve or seating charts to arrange."

"Tempting."

His voice dropped lower, sending pleasant shivers down her spine.

"But then Tiffany would hunt us both down. And she's more determined than any corporate legal team."

"True."

Rowan sighed dramatically before straightening her shoulders.

"Seven o'clock?"

Reed's smile held promises that made her heart race.

"I'll bring the documentation for our honeymoon destination. Somewhere far from wedding planners and alliance meetings."

"My hero,"

Rowan said dryly, but her eyes sparkled as she headed off to face the wedding committee.

She had an alliance to lead, history to protect, and apparently urgent venue decisions to make. But she also had this—moments of joy sprinkled between responsibilities, quiet laughter amid serious work, and a future growing brighter with each passing day.

A future built on truth rather than secrets, on cooperation rather than conflict, on love that had grown from unexpected partnership into something deep and lasting.

Now if she could just convince Tiffany that a simple ceremony would be perfectly adequate...