Page 105 of Alien Warlord's Fury
"A council," Lazrin suggested. "With representatives from each clan".
"And the humans," I added, meeting Claire's gaze. "They bring valuable perspective."
Some Aerie elders shifted uncomfortably. "The humans lack our history," one muttered. I felt Claire's anger spike, but she remained silent.
"With respect, Elder Tavik," I said, "it was a human, Claire, who stabilized the Nexus. Her connection proved stronger than any Nyxari in generations. The Aerie teachings speak of balance. We face a great threat. We must find new paths forward".
Lazrin nodded slowly. "Nirako speaks wisdom. We propose a joint council for Nexus monitoring, with representatives from all clans and selected humans".
Ravik crossed his arms. "The Canyon will participate, but reserves the right to withhold certain knowledge".
"As do the Aerie," I agreed, glancing at Elder Tavik, who gave a reluctant nod.
"Then we have the beginning of an agreement," Lazrin said. "Now, reports from the western territories."
Ravik stepped fully into the circle. "Our scout teams returned this morning. Hammond is dead. Consumed by the Nexus backlash. His compound is unstable, the corrupted access point collapsed. Some followers were killed; others scattered. We have captured seventeen".
"What of the captives?" Elder Tavik asked.
"Integrate them," Claire spoke suddenly. All eyes turned to her. "Most were manipulated. They have useful skills".
My Aerie kin showed disapproval. I stepped forward. "Claire speaks from human experience, but even the broken branch may sprout new growth".
Ravik shook his head. "The Canyon cannot accept them".
"The Eastern Settlement has outposts where they could contribute while proving trustworthiness," Lazrin offered.
After brief discussion, Lazrin raised his hand. "The council proposes: Joint patrols capture remaining loyalists. Willing captives work in monitored outposts toward integration. Resistors face exile". Murmurs of agreement followed.
"Now to the Nexus," Lazrin continued.
"The Aerie will share records of ancient sites in our territory," Elder Tavik offered. Ravik reluctantly agreed for the Canyon.
"We propose a specialized team," Lazrin said, "drawn from all clans and including humans connected to the Nexus".
"Who leads?" Ravik asked cautiously.
Lazrin looked directly at Claire. "We propose Claire as primary Nexus guardian, alongside Jen, Rivera, and Kavan. Each clan appoints specialists".
I felt Claire's surprise, then determination.
"An outsider?" Elder Tavik frowned.
"Not an outsider," I said firmly. "Claire bears the ancient markings of a Nexus guardian. She stabilized the system. The Aerie follows the path revealed".
Elder Tavik studied me, then inclined his head. "We accept, provided Aerie knowledge is respected".
"The Canyon accepts," Ravik said. "Our specialist will be Zara".
"Decided," Lazrin concluded. "The Nexus team is established. We meet again in seven days".
As the council adjourned, smaller groups formed. I joined Claire, Jen, and Rivera discussing the monitoring system.
"The council recognized your role," I said quietly.
"Thanks to your support," she replied, our bond carrying her gratitude.
"The mountain reveals the path to those who learn to see," I smiled slightly. "You helped many see".
