"I propose a vote," said Orion.
The master of ceremonies registered it.
"I propose that none of the recognitions described be transferred until an independent verification of five to ten years of tamer Patinder's nature has been completed by a panel designated by this session." A pause, and then the next demand, even more unreasonable, delivered in the same measured tone. "And I propose that during that verification process, the tamer demonstrate to all of us each year his capacity to represent his own interests without the intermediation of those who have managed his education until now, before receiving anything!"
His eyes moved to Julius with something that wasn't hostility… it was considerably more calculated than hostility.
"And if the young man is as capable as everyone claims, he can speak for himself, right? Let him do so!"
Almost everyone in the hall looked at Ren at the same time.
Ren's head was still down.
He didn't speak.
