Amalek returned to Eastwood and told the others of his experience at the conclave.
"I went to see Damrina again, afterwards," said Amalek’s avatar. "She says half the trads are ready to support me, while the other half want to wait and see. The reactionaries are behind me, but are also wary of betting on a dark horse. The imps, of course, are a lost cause. All will oppose us."
"I don’t think we need them," said Zebulun.
"The imps?" asked Amalek. "With the trads and rats on our side, we’ll have them outnumbered, but the imps have a great deal more gold on their side."
"I don’t mean them," said Zebulun. "I don’t think we need any of them. I don’t think we need to engage in politics any more than war."
Amalek stared down at him. "If not war, and not politics… then what is your plan for dethroning the dragon king?"
Zebulun looked at Amalek with mirth. "I had a dream."
"Ah," said Amalek. "Another dream of Ur? I met Ur myself, and have yet to be visited in a dream. What did he say this time?"
"To go to the capital on the eve of the new year," said Zebulun. "He promised a miracle."
"Well, then," said Amalek, "you don’t much need my talents."
"I may need your power," said Zebulun.
"I am happy to accompany you," said Amalek. "I would love to see what kind of miracle Ur comes up with to defeat a horde of dragons and their armies. Do you think he will consume them with fire and brimstone from the skies?"
"Hope not," said Zebulun.
Amalek grinned.
Zebulun looked skyward. "Star folk? I hope you can help me with something."
Michael and Gabriel appeared, followed by Bluebonnet and Quetzal.
"Yes, Zebulun Koh?" asked Bluebonnet.
"I need your help to deliver a message far and wide."