“I can’t have people like that within our community.  They are a threat to all of us.  If you are willing to contribute to the community, follow the laws, and help make mankind stronger to face the coming challenges, you are welcome.  If not, you will be barred from the safety and benefits of our holdings.   I know that sounds harsh, but this isn’t a game.  This is about survival.  The System has taken from us most of what made us the apex species on this world.  Our numbers, and our technology.   We cannot afford to be anything other than a united force if we’re going to continue to survive.  And I don’t plan to just survive.  I want us to THRIVE!  I want us to be able to grow our own food, raise our own herds.  I want us to become master crafters in every trade imaginable, and create items both useful and valuable.  Earth is ours, and I’m not ready to give it up!”

There were cheers from most of the group, fists thrust in the air.

“My thought is that all of you, once you have taken your oaths, would run Cheyenne.  Live in the stronghold, and grow crops, raise cattle or sheep or goats or whatever.  We have chickens and rabbits at the Warren so far.” His sheepish grin as he said this earned him some laughs. “Go out and forage for items you can use or valuable items to sell.  Right now Earth is a novelty, and we are the only ones with access to Earth’s goods.  They’re selling for thousands of klax on the open market.  Once the aliens arrive, the market will be flooded.  So let’s take advantage while we can.  And most importantly, find more survivors.  People are now the most valuable resource on Earth, at least to us.   And I will expect every single one of you to learn at least one craft - and get good at it!  The land we will have at our disposal has plenty of room for farming, lakes and streams for fishing, mines, and quarries, everything we’ll need.  But we need bodies to do all that work.  And to defend ourselves when needed.”

He sat back in his chair to let them think.  Helen caught his eye, giving him a smile and a thumbs-up.  Dean clapped him on the back, then stood up.

“Alright, folks.  Feel free to talk amongst yourselves.  We’ll take a vote in an hour.  For my two cents, Sarah and I will be joining Baron Allistor…” He grinned as Allistor rolled his eyes. “And moving into the Stronghold.  I’m tired of worrying about real monsters spawning under my bed.  And I can’t remember the last time I had a hot shower.”   Sarah stood and moved next to him, taking his hand in a show of support.