Lady Viktoria became one of Adrian's strongest supporters.
She used her influence with Traditionalist vampires to promote coalition values, framing cooperation as the strongest path forward. Many who'd opposed Adrian shifted their positions based on her endorsement.
"You made a smart move," Wei observed. "Turning an enemy into an ally."
"It was the right move morally too. She had valid concerns. Dismissing them would've created more problems."
Within months, the Traditionalist faction had largely dissolved, its members integrated into coalition leadership. Viktoria herself took a position coordinating vampire-specific issues within the broader coalition framework.
"You've changed," Viktoria told Adrian during a planning session. "When you first became Coordinator, you were uncertain, reactive. Now you're strategic, confident. You've grown into the role."
"I had good teachers," Adrian said, thinking of Marcus, of Kieran, of all who'd guided him.
"And good instincts. That matters more."