work.”
“Well, we do have a couple of new recruits going into training a few days from now. Maybe we can see what they are capable of.”
Jake pondered on the thought for a moment and then made a final decision.
“We’ll stay here for the remainder of the month as was finalized at the last meeting,” Jake decided. “And we will invest in special scout teams. However, if the scouting program works and they find a certain area to be risky to camp around, we will leave the general area alone, regardless of what might be in the city.”
“I second,” Tyrese agreed.
“All those in favor of investing in a scouting program, notify by saying ‘Aye’”
“Aye,” everyone repeated in unison.
“The ‘ayes’ have it. We will begin investing in a scouting party. We will look for qualified soldiers and test them to make sure they will be able to scout unknown territories and evade from any threats if need be. This meeting is now adjourned. Dismissed.”
As the officials were leaving, Bryan walked up to Jake.
“Jake,” Bryan started. “Can we talk?”
“About what?” Jake asked.
Bryan pulled Jake away from some of the officials that were socializing.
“Some of the members of the committee are starting to wonder whether or not you are able to function properly as Marshal,” Bryan answered. “They’re wondering what is going on with you, with some of the propositions you’ve been making and some of the disagreements that had to be settled in here.”
“Well they end up getting settled,” Jake responded. “And we’re able to compromise. To benefit everyone in the settlement.”
“Yes, but with all that’s going on right now, some people are wondering if you are fit to lead for the time being.”
Jake looked past Bryan and saw Alan and Boris conversing with some of the other officials.
“If I’m not mistaken,” Jake assumed. “One of those pushing for my leave is the Senator.”
“Oh, you think?” Bryan answered.
“Well you and I both know why he wants me gone.”
“Oh yeah, but he’s not getting what he wants. If you leave, Tyrese will be taking your spot. If he’s not fit, then the spot is going to go to me.”
“True,” Jake agreed. “But with me gone, that’s just an extra step on his political ladder that he goes up.”
“Yeah, well with the way he’s going, he might have to relinquish that title of his and give it to the Representative. But don’t give him any reason to take you down with him. If something comes up that makes you think that he could do that, you come let me know, and I’ll help you take him down.”
“Thank you,” Jake responded. “I’ll be sure to do that.”
As Jake left the tent, he grabbed a small cup of the water that was set on the table for the officials. As he took a sip, he snuck a glance at Alan and Boris through the corner of his eye. They were whispering to each other, making sure nobody else was listening, unaware that Jake was eavesdropping on them.
Michael Bray, Albert Kivak