Chapter 3

"We are in no condition to fight Ix or any of the other countries from across the deserts," Councilman Ta'rek, of the Vinkus, shook his head. The Council had started to discuss what the spy meant and what was to be done about the uninvited visitor.

"I would beg to differ. We are stronger than we ever have been. The Wizard's sympathizers have been driven from our ranks and every country in Oz now has Gale Force barracks to add to their own armies. Not only that, we have two very powerful witches," Captain Khalil spoke up. He'd been promoted to the leader of the Gale Force after his work to capture the Wizard and help to shape the new army.

"While there is no one who could best Princess Elphaba or Ruler Glinda, we have to look at what we have. The Princess is due to give birth any time now and is not going to be able to fight, should we need her. It leaves the Vinkus vulnerable and they will protect themselves at all costs before anyone else," Councilman Lake argued.

"I resent the implication Councilman. We all know that the Vinkus could have stayed put after defeating Morrible. Yet they not only rounded up support from their neighbors but also marched into the Emerald City. Without them, we would not have a free Oz," Glinda gave the Quadling a look.

"I resent it as well," Ta'rek gave a similar look to his cohort.

"Duly noted. Now, I think the best thing to do would be to find out what your father has gleaned from the captured man," Vice Ruler Ozma spoke up and looked directly at the blonde.

"I have sent Falcon Alp to reach my father. Until we hear back, we should try to not speculate. What I want is possible battle options and possible diplomatic options worked up. Until the purpose of the man's visit is discovered we must remain vigilant in case he is not the only one. Mopsi Pipt, you've been fairly quiet. Anything you'd like to share?" Glinda asked.

"Our last encounter with Ix was many many years ago. Before anyone here was born and perhaps before their parents were born. So we should do research on what the encounter was like. It may be a reach but it can't hurt," Mopsi smiled slightly. He'd gladly taken the position as Councilman when it was offered and the Munchkin Head Council had luckily found a replacement.

"Excellent idea. All right, anyone else have anything they want to add?" The blonde wanted to know.

"I would assume that we are keeping this under wraps for as long as possible?" Councilwoman Ama of Gillikin asked.

"Yes. We don't need to incite panic if it isn't necessary," Glinda nodded. There was a knock on the door and Khalil got up to answer it. They all focused their attention on the door, assuming that it was a message from Lord Arduenna. Within a few moments, Khalil left the door and headed for his seat.

"Well what it is?" Councilman Cengel from the Emerald City asked. He'd been quiet the whole meeting so far.

"Nothing regarding the spy. Just word from the Vinkus. They intend to make a public announcement in three days' time and that they wish for Councilman Ta'rek to return home as soon as he can," the Captain explained.

"Did the King say why?" Ta'rek was confused.

"No. Just that they needed to see you. I would imagine if it was urgent, they would have not bothered to send for you and just said what they needed," Khalil shrugged.

"I hope Elphie is all right," Glinda said.

"I'm sure the Princess is fine. Usually the only reason I get recalled is because the King values my opinion on something that cannot be discussed publicly. Usually just internal matters or matters he may feel the Council needs to know about," he reassured them.

"All right well everyone get to work. We will talk tomorrow about what ideas you have," Glinda stood and the Council stood with her before the blonde turned and left the room, bound for her office.

To Be Continued…