Page 4 of The White Dragon's Dilemma

Marban’s eyebrows rose.Even though this council had been talked of privately at the highest levels, it had yet to be formally announced by anyone, let alone Valerius.

“This council will not be for show.It will advise, argue and present options.It will be listened to.It will make change,” Valerius stated.There was more frantic scribbling by the reporters.This was news.The people of the Below looked skeptical and he couldn’t blame them.“But I don’t expect you to believe me.In fact, I want you to doubt until it's proven to you.”

“Actions speak louder than words,” Marban agreed with that classic avuncular smile of his.

And who says old Dragons can’t learn new tricks?Caden beamed at him.

I would have been the first to say that not so long ago,Valerius admitted.

“We have to hear all the changes that are wanted.The different futures we can have.All voices will be heard,” Valerius continued grandly.But then his voice dropped and his gaze ignited with fire.“But those who choose to use violence against innocents to try and change the world, need to know that they will not succeed.” There was a pause as Valerius encompassed all present as he explained, “Because we will not let you.”

The crowd erupted into applause and roars of agreement. Valerius waited for it to die down so he could be heard again.

“There are more people who want to help than hurt.There are more people who want discussion and not violence.”After each statement, the crowd again yelled their approval. Valerius stuck a hand out, a finger pointed towards the cameras as he spoke to those who would use violence for their fight.“There are more of us than there are of you.And we will not let you change us!”

The roar was deafening as he finished his speech. His arms lifted to his sides like wings.The crowd began to chant his name over and over again.He had never seen the people look so enamored with him. He could have led them to do anything at that moment.

I have goosebumps, Valerius! Whoa!That was amazing.The people are behind you!Caden enthused.

Marban leaned in and said, “I thought you weren’t a speaker, King Valerius.Why have you been hiding your light under a basket?”

“Because you have to follow up such words with actions that are just as spectacular,” Valerius admitted as the crowd’s applause washed over him.

When you speak, you’re making a solemn promise to the people, aren’t you? Caden realized.

Yes, every word I say must be delivered upon.

And that was why it did not excite him to make a rousing speech.It did not make him feel lifted up from the ground as if on wings.There was none of the heady feeling of power from moving hearts and minds.All there was--all there ever was for him--was the heavy responsibility to those who cheered and clapped.

“You will do it.”Marban clasped his hands in front of him like the monk he pretended to be, letting the sleeves fall over them.“Because you must do it.And I have never seen you fail at something that must be done.”

Valerius frowned as he thought of his brother lying dead on the ground.“There is more information on the bombers, Marban, that we have discovered.We need to discuss.Come to Reach after you get your people settled here.”

Marban nodded.“I figured as much.I will be there.”

Marban bowed, which had yet another ripple of surprise and joy from the crowd. If Valerius’ greatest critic bowed to him at this moment then something truly remarkable was happening.

Uh, oh, reporters, Valerius, Caden warned just before the surge of media came towards them.Lots of them and they look like rabid dogs on a scent.

And this is another reason I do not make speeches.Valerius sighed.Because the press treats them only as propaganda.

Which they most times were.Valerius was glad of the press’ skepticism.But not now.Not yet.After people had calmed.But there would be no waiting.They had to get their stories.The questions came fast and furious as the reporters thrust out their microphones to him like swords.

“Do you know who is behind these bombings?”

“Is it one group or many?”

“The individuals you carried out of here were wearing Faith robes.Is there some connection between the Faith and these bombings?”

“You mentioned those who feel left behind in this world, are you referring to those in Humans First?”

“What would you say to Jasper Hawes’ contention that humans are second-class citizens?”

“Is this council going to have any members from Humans First upon it?”

“I am already hearing that Jasper Hawes is interested in this council!What say you, King Valerius?”

“I’m hearing Jasper Hawes is calling the council a sham and will have no part in it! What are your thoughts, King Valerius?

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