A Solution (3)

Erik was holding his breath as he waited for the older man to announce his decision, and the atmosphere in the hall became thick with anticipation.

Amos finally exhaled a sigh that seemed to break the tense atmosphere in the room after what seemed like an eternity had passed.

"However," Amos repeated, this time using a more subdued tone of voice. "I think we've reached a point where we must be willing to take some chances for the sake of the bigger picture. If you can truly assist us, as you have shown with the tree, then it would be not very smart of us not to accept your assistance. No, it would be foolish.

His gaze lingered on Erik, unwavering. "We accept your conditions. You will have all of your belongings returned to you, with the exception of your weapon, and from this point forward, you will be treated as a guest. In exchange, we anticipate full cooperation from you as well as transparency."