month's medical leave and their ship is unable to
be repaired for about the same time because of safety reasons. North
will not be able to leave, therefore, until at least two months after
his sickleave concludes. Could the rest of the conditions of the treaty
be fulfilled immediately upon its signing?"
111 "We will have to consult with our Superiors," the Councilman
answered, "but I think it only fair considering the honor you have
shown our people!"
112 "Thank you!" acknowledged Morn, "I will advise you of General
North's decision as soon as I have it!"
113 "Don't worry how late that might be," the Peepian requested, "I
will not sleep until I know." And with that they departed.
114 That evening Morn had a cheerful dinner with North, while the
children were busy playing pockets and the women discussing women's
things. Morn and North went for a walk along the rooftop just below
North's quarters. The grain field there had just been cut and it
smelled sweet and good.
115 "I love the way your people make use of every foot of land!" North
remarked. "I love looking out my window and watching the grain mature.
I am more at peace here than anyplace I have ever been. I think I
consider Hades my home even more than Haven. What is it your people
say? 'Your home is where your heart lies'? Now, my old friend, enough
of my daydreaming. You have something on your mind. What is it?"
116 "The Peepians have agreed," began Morn, "to a treaty. Our plans to
help them win and hold the two systems nearest them can soon be put
into effect, but there's a condition. They want the best General we
have to go with the Fleet we're sending, and to train them to fight The
Goddens on their own terms."
117 "That's no problem," laughed North, "we'll send Gray Mountain."
118 "They won't accept Gray Mountain," Morn insisted,