Over the next few days, you spent much of you time consulting with your war council. Riders were sent to the twelve clans with a message for each of them to send an Ambassador to Polis to discuss Azgeda. As predicted Ice Nation declined to attend, The Queen sending a message back, 'The inevitable can not be stopped.' This collective of Ambassadors was to be the start of the Coalition of Clans.
We gathered in the throne room. Tensions were high, many of the clans had not seen eye to eye for years. My Grand Chief stood by my side. The tension was broken as the double doors to the throne room swung open. You entered the room followed by your generals and Titus, never making eye contact with any of those present. We all knelt out of respect as you seated yourself upon your throne. Titus and your generals flanked you. The authority in your glare never once showing weakness. Titus spoke, "Please rise."
Everyone stood upright, awaiting your words, "Clan Ambassadors, I have asked you to attend Polis on this day to discuss the issue of war. Azgeda plans to march on your capital, against your Commander. This is an act of treason. I ask for unity in this matter, a joining of clans. I ask you to march with me to stop Queen Nia's advances."
Each of the Ambassadors looked at each other, waiting for someone to speak. Boudalankru were first to voice their opinion, "We hear you harbour a murder. Azgeda are within their rights to demand justice!"
My Chief interjected in my defence, "We all know Nia uses this as an excuse, don't take us for fools, Rockline!"
Boudalankru snapped back, "A Plains Rider defending a Plains Rider! Your opinion is not valid here." This was getting us nowhere fast. Titus called for silence and the room fell quiet. He looked over at you as you made your stand, "War was Azgedas agenda long before Nia decided to use transparent excuses to support her actions. I have no time for bickering. If you support your Commander remain in this room. Those who don't are free to leave, we will meet again on the battlefield!"
Silence filled the room. Not a single person moved. Eyes glanced back and forth in anticipation for the first response to the ultimatum their Commander had given them.
As anticipated it was the Ambassador for Boudalankru who walked out first. They are geographically closest to Azgeda and would always support them. Ousekjonkru were next. Once again their geography to Rockline and the trade agreements these two clans shared played a factor in their decision to walk away. Sangedakru followed. They had been at odds with Trikru for many years and much like Azgeda hated the notion of a Commander born of The Woods Clan. The last to leave was Delfikru, who were bitter one of their own was not seated upon The Throne of Polis.
All moves by the clans were based on politics, trade and geography. It seemed not much had changed since the bombs had fallen. People still cried out for war and death. Those who stayed were Trikru, Ingranronakru, Yujledakru, Podakru, Floukru, Louwoda Kliron kru and Trishanakru. All of the clans had made their choice. The foundations for your coalition had been set. The remaining Ambassadors looked to you for guidance. You stood from your throne and spoke, never once wavering. Your voice full of strength, your eyes full of determination, "I thank you all for your support. This is an historical day for our clans. I ask you to return to your lands, gather your armies. We march on Azgeda within the week!"
You turned to me and gave the faintest of nods. Even though this newfound unity of our people was overshadowed by the imminent conflict, I was so proud to hold you in my heart. My Heda, my visionary Commander.
