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you all know, I believe wholeheartedly in the teachings of the elders. Although this is naught but a rumor, I do believe it should be investigated. However, I agree with the King that it is time to implement our plan for peace. Someone should investigate the rumor, but not Evercloud. He is needed here.”
    “Thank you, Whiteclaw,” followed Forestmoon. “I, too, believe in the teachings of the elders and I fear this rumor of the Ancient’s return. If, in fact, one or all of the Ancients have returned, we need to know as soon as possible. Those who hope to have amiable relations with them should not ignore beings so strong. I agree with Whiteclaw.”
    Redriver came next.
    “I agree with the King. We cannot throw our resources into the ring with rumors. If our imminent future lies in this plan for peace with the humans, then we must put all our efforts toward that goal.” Redriver shrugged. “What do we have to gain by tracking down an Ancient, anyway?”
    “Unfortunately,” began Oaktongue, “I don’t agree with any of you. Who are we to use this boy as some political pawn? We are doing fine without the aid of humans and we have been.” Eveneye grimaced. “What is the rush in this plan for peace? Let the boy go find the Ancient. If it were I who had lost a part of my history, I would wish to regain it.”
    Now it was Firerock’s turn.
    “I like none of these options. This plan for peace has still given me no reason to endorse it. I do not trust men, they are vile.” Now Evercloud knew why his father had warned him. “Let us not forget, they tried to kill one of their own. A bear would do no such thing. Also, the boy should not be allowed to look for the Ancient. Why would we wish to see humans have more power, to hunt us further? Let us, instead, continue our lives and forget about these dreams.”
    Lastly, the turn came to Evercloud. Firerock’s words had stung him, but he kept his promise to his father and did not let his emotions get the better of him. Instead, he focused his energy into making his position known.
    “What authority do I have? How can I be an ambassador of peace? Who will listen to me? In my own kingdom, I am viewed as an outsider. You just heard testimony of the distrust for humans. What have I done to change those feelings? Nothing. And what of the world of man? What authority do I hold over them? I am no king of men, no champion of the people. They will not listen to me. I must find the Ancient and regain the powers men once held. Only then, will I command authority. I will use these powers justly, so that this kingdom will trust my actions. And with these powers, the world of man will take my words seriously. With authority, the plan for peace will work. I must go and find the Ancient.”
    No one had considered the fact that humans may not listen to Evercloud. The realization came as a shock to them. Oaktongue was the first to respond.
    “I agree wit h Evercloud. With the power of the Ancients, there is no chance that the plan for peace could fail. Besides, it is what he wishes to do. We should not stand in his way.”
    “I will agree with Evercloud as well. He brings up a very valid point,” added Redriver.
    Evercloud beamed. Had he done it? Had he convinced them?
    “The boy may have changed Redriver’s mind, but not mine. I keep my original position.” Firerock pounded his paw upon the table.
    “I’ll stand with Evercloud,” s aid Forestmoon. “His words make sense.”
    That was four of the seven. That was a majority. Evercloud knew this was not a majority rule decision, but he could not help but be hopeful. Whiteclaw now took his opportunity to speak.
    “I understand that this is a difficult decision for everyone, and I understand that there are many factors that weigh on each decision. It would seem to me that the largest factor involved in this discussion is whether Evercloud should be focused on the plan for peace or with finding the Ancient. I understand that both