By the time the council returned, the room had gone silent, with both groups darting looks across to each other. They took their seats, their faces tight and grim.
Mivra rose to address them. “In light of what we have discussed here today, the council has agreed to lift the moratorium on recruitment, under the following conditions. First, the council conducts the recruitment program, the details of which have yet to be decided upon. Second, those applying for such recruitment must agree to lend their support to council ventures, an example of which is the formation of this army. Third, those not agreeing to involve or affiliate themselves with the council are not eligible for such recruitment, and if they break council law, are subject to the full force of persecution.”
Tyrez kept his face stoic throughout her announcement. It was good news and not surprising that the council wanted to maintain a stranglehold on the process.
By the looks on a few of the alpha’s faces, they were not entirely pleased at the restrictions. But they could hardly expect the council to approve a free-for-all.
Tyrez gestured for attention, and Mivra indicated for him to proceed.
“I thank the council for their wisdom on this issue. I know this decision does not come easily and that there are complicated days ahead. But I must move on getting our army assembled.” He turned to the Dire side of the table and addressed Alex. “I need you to coordinate the packs. Tally those interested in taking the council’s deal. Make sure they understand the sacrifice they might be making—this Archmage is not an easy enemy to fight.”
Alex’s mouth straightened, but he nodded. “Rindek’s offer has lured many,” he pointed out. “But the price they pay is enslavement to his every wish. This offer should be much more palatable.”
Tyrez turned to Kade. “I will need to know how many Sabres can step up for this effort.”
Kade considered. “It would help to know the numbers moving against us.”
“We may be able to narrow that down.” Alex glanced at the other Dires.
Tyrez looked toward Jacques. “Perhaps Jacques can assist with that information.”
The Satyr gave a single, brisk nod.
Razir stood. “We have Seers looking for Rindek’s next move, but so far, none have been able to pinpoint a location.”
Mivra glanced down the table. “We will put it to our own Seers and try to get answers.” She cast her gaze around the chamber. “I cannot lie to you. This is a dangerous and difficult task we embark upon.”
“We must succeed in this venture.” Tyrez straightened, meeting her eyes. “The price for failure is far too high.”
36
It was a mixed group that stepped through the gate and into Cara’s garden.
“Well, another exciting day at the office,” Cody said with a grin. “I gotta tell ya, Sir Gecko, I didn’t think you had a hope in hell of changing the council’s mind. I’m impressed.”
“Never underestimate a Dragon, pussy cat,” Tyrez rumbled.
“Any reply to that isn’t suitable for a mixed audience,” Cody countered.
Neil snorted a laugh as Cody grinned and slung an arm over Kitani’s shoulders. She shook her head at him as they wandered off toward the exit gate and their vehicles.
“It was well done,” Kade agreed. “I’ll get you a list of Sabres ready and eager to sink their teeth into fur.”
“It was your speech that shook them loose.” Tyrez shook his head, sending long hair drifting around his shoulders. “They expect the Sabres to perform whatever duty is assigned. I think they were surprised that you have a brain and are not afraid to use it.”
Kade huffed a laugh. “I was only repeating what others have been saying for years. It was the context that swung the vote.” The big Sabre shook his head and followed in the wake of the others.
“I’m returning to the Gryphon realm with you,” Cara told Tyrez. “Bess and I are getting close to cracking Ash’s damned collar. I want to keep going on it.”
Tyrez glanced at Razir. “You will take this to father?”
“To Taran, first. Father still listens to him. Not so much to me.”
“He has to agree to this. Unless we find a way to protect our warriors from the parasite, the Dragons can only provide an auxiliary role in this fight. But it is a necessary one.”
Razir turned to leave, but Jacques called out.
“I have something for you to take back to Taran,” the Satyr said. He extracted a wrapped package from beneath the bench and removed the cloth to reveal a prosthetic arm.
