“There is a reason why the shifter group most successful in adopting Ikosian-style magic is also the group that cares the least for our traditional rights,” she said. “While the idea sounds simple in principle, in practice it amounts to opening a back door for the central government to influence the tribe. Members trained as mages have a tendency to make power plays and involve the mage guild, and through them the central government, in internal tribal disputes when they don’t get their way.”
“Ah.” Zorian nodded in understanding. “And the central government is all about abolishing autonomous groups like yours when given a chance.”
“Yes,” she said. “Plus, the tribal elders are very traditional and often react badly if the new mage shows too much outside influence upon return. It’s not u
