"Our people do not have such a rigid hierarchical command structure as the Imperial and Dominion militaries." Ri'vashi spoke up. "It is not uncommon for leaders among lycan clans to change, usually through challenges. Many clans are different in many ways, but a common culture between us all is the strongest rise to the top. As long as they trust in your skill and experience, they will be willing to follow you, regardless of your lack of lycanthropy. We also have several clans from different parts of Morrowind, and though this one has not yet worked too closely with them, Ri'vashi is confident that their warriors and mages already practice the Dunmer military customs you are familiar with. Fighting alongside them would not likely require much adjustment from either side."

Although Meesei was still not completely sure if Rossarm would be willing to fight alongside lycans, she did agree with Ri'vashi's reasoning on the matter. There would be much less resistance to Rossarm taking a leading role among one of their clans than in a "professional" military. "I do believe that it is an option worth considering. Fendros is my second, and commands considerable respect among our people, especially the Morrowind clans. Being his father would likely lend you some credibility from the start."

[hr]

"I...think so." Julan replied, though his tone was hardly convincing. He made an effort to force himself to stop concentrating on his tattoos, and turned entirely away from the stream so that he could not see his own reflection. "I guess there is a lot more out there outside the clans, but I do feel at home back...home. I've never wanted to leave or anything. I mean, really, I wish we could all spend more time there without you and mother being so busy."

Julan gradually started to seem more nervous as a select few of Janius' words got into his head. "You don't think anything...bad is going to happen to you or mother, do you? In the invasion?"