Aengus arrived before him, his expression calm as he looked at the Tribe Chief
With a heavy heart, Gourmond loosened his clenched fists and lowered his gaze. "What... would surrender entail my lord?" Gourmond gave in, feeling utterly defeated.
"Surrender your lands, your resources, and your loyalty. In return, your tribe will live under our protection. You will be given power to join our cause. "
Gourmond hesitated, his pride and duty at war with the harsh reality of his situation. But as he looked around at his people—at their fear, at the hopelessness in their eyes—he knew the answer.
Swallowing his pride, he spoke the words that sealed his tribe's fate. "We surrender!"
----
