59 The Old Peepian rose, and, from somewhere
where they had been viewing the proceedings, North's other two wives
appeared and supported the old man as he made his way to his quarters.
Silently the Councilmen, in great sadness, gathered around North,
hoping for some direction, some guidance.
60 "As I will be spending much time in the field," announced North, "I
think it better you choose someone else. I am not Peepian. It is not my
place to sit upon a Peepian throne."
61 Spearonias came forward. "Are any of us any more Peepian?" he said.
"You know as well as any of us here, Peepi as an independent entity,
ceased to exist long ago. We are becoming part of a greater society, of
a greater way. We are being drawn in as a sponge draws in water. But
none of us object to that drawing in. We know fully well where our
Destiny lies.
62 You are one of The Fathers Of The Republic which we are now a part
of. Why should it not be that one of that Republic should sit on our
throne? You and your gracious Lord are already beloved by our people.
Very few, VERY FEW would object to you taking that place that is yours
by Law. For our Law so reads 'When no male heir to an estate lives, the
husband of the eldest daughter of that estate shall be heir unto it.
For he is the father of those who will be heir of those goods. You are
The Father Of Kings, therefore, you MUST be King, and none can say that
you are not worthy."
63 North didn't want this....he didn't want this at all, but something
made him look up towards the doors of The Great Hall. He saw Morn
standing there, like a shining light in the doorway, illuminating the
darkness behind. Morn gave a quiet nod, and North knew the matter was
settled. "Though I am unworthy," he announced, "I will respect your
wishes. Now, if you will excuse me, I must council with Lord Morn
before he leaves."