Category: Change is the Only Option

The Residency, are they well, will they survive… “What got this started, these changes?” Pentast Morales asked. “Just because we have a new Poh does not mean we have to change all these things.” He had insisted on coming in to see Francos. “I can understand about the women. I recognized some of the women…

The lost are found… “I know there are some extra mats and coverings here in Ser Megal’s room.” The girls had been sent to gather more bedding for the many members of the family who were now staying at Casa Bethal rather than going home. Several families were in mourning, so rather than stay in…

A family shame, a fervent apology… “What is this nonsense that Emiliano that caused this?” Joachim was angry and challenged his nephew. “You call all of us together with this stupid claim? What evidence do you have?” “Is everyone here?” Ricky looked around the room to ensure that all the older males of the family…

Casualties, a search, a damning discovery… “Serept, I need to know, how many dead?” Francos was carried into his quarters at the Residence rather than the central hospital. The family believed it was safer. “Save your strength,” his uncle said. “We have not had a final count. We came close to losing you. Serept and…

A wedding like no other… “What are we to expect tomorrow, Megal?” Francos and Tony were having a quick midday meal break from discussions about what might be traded with Port. Francos had been surprised how badly some of the haciendas needed more food and other basic supplies. There was much that could be traded…

An ominous meeting… “You are certain we can disrupt this ceremony?” Emiliano Pesch did not trust Keeper Malfe, but he knew the man Malfe had hired by reputation. “You can do it without killing all of them? I do not want the death of the Poh on my soul. I do not care if he…

Wedding preparations… “Mama, do I have to wear this long robe? I can barely walk!” Sarita tried to walk across the room in the garment traditionally worn by Refugio women for weddings. “Even in Utopia, women wear skirts for special occasions.” Rita knew most Utopia women rarely wore anything except the one-piece coveralls reminiscent of…

A meeting is called and fails…     “The emergency meeting of the Council of Houses will come to order.” Francos was annoyed. Emiliano Pesch had invoked an ancient rule to call this meeting less than a full day after the announcement of the betrothal. Romerie Malfe had somehow regained his position with the family and…

Refugio, a wedding to plan, a dispute to settle…     Joachim Pesch had presented himself at the Residency by midmorning. “My family objects to this arrangement.” Emiliano had insisted he demand the family be included in the consultation for the marriage contract. Francos decided to include Rita in the meeting. Joachim was shaken that this…

An announcement is noticed…     “What is the news, mi mano?” Darion Smoot joined his brother Philipe at the first meal.     Philipe was engrossed in his reader. “What? Oh, you have not read it yet. The Overlord announced his son is betrothed to a woman of Pesch, but one that grew up in Utopia…