Curiosity

"Those old fools on the Council would never agree to something like what you're proposing..." contended Anise, lying across Will's lap with his right hand supporting the back of her head and his left caressing her abdomen, surprising her by how comfortable it felt.

"The Elder Keeper said something similar," revealed Will, shrugging as he asserted, "But if you attempt to circumvent the Council in its entirety, they will stonewall you at every step. Then there's the Witomir family...are your company and support organizations in a position to oppose them?"

"They may outnumber us, but the average strength of our warriors and the capabilities of our scholars are greater..." answered Anise, narrowing her eyes as she guided Will's hand to the clasp of her belt.