The Halls of the King

Spring 1110 SR* (*Saints Reckoning)

Farin Greybeard, Vard of Kragen-Tor, stroked his beard, staring at his visitors. He’d ruled for over a decade, but before that, he’d developed a loathing for Humans as the Guildmaster of the Warriors Guild. Now, the High Thane of Therengia stood before him with his entourage, which included not only Humans but Orcs and even a Dwarf. “You say you come here in peace, yet you’ve expanded your borders at an alarming rate. How long before you seek to annex my lands?”

“Appearances can be deceiving,” replied Athgar. “I shan’t deny that our borders have grown over the last few years, but none of that was our doing.”

“Then who is responsible?”

Belgast pushed himself to the forefront. “With all due respect, Majesty, I vouch for everything the High Thane claims.”

Farin’s gaze fell on the Dwarf. “Perhaps you’d care to explain how you arrived at your present position of power?”

“Most certainly. It started with the Church of the Saints, or rather, the Temple Knights of Saint Cunar, who initiated a crusade against the eastern lands. We weren’t called Therengia then, but the Humans there were the descendants of the Old Kingdom. We defeated their invasion, leading to the knights abandoning the City of Ebenstadt, leaving it under the influence of brigands, necessitating firm action on our part.”

“So you took it upon yourselves to conquer the city?”

“We did, Majesty. Thinking us weak, the Kingdom of Novarsk launched an invasion, but it, too, met with a similar fate, leading to their surrender.”

“And then you just absorbed Novarsk?”

“We intended to restore their monarchy, but it quickly became apparent they couldn’t be trusted, and thus, a governor was named to rule over the kingdom.”

“I see,” said Farin. “Yet, if I’m not mistaken, the expansion didn’t end there.”

“No,” replied Belgast. “It didn’t. Upon returning from the west, we came across a… well, there’s no quick way to explain this. The Kingdom of Carlingen was threatened with invasion, and we intervened on behalf of King Maksim, neutralizing the threat. Though we didn’t ask for it, Ostrova ceded us a portion of their eastern lands, which, I might add, were little more than wilderness. Thus, our borders now reach as far as King Maksim’s lands. I assure you, however, that none of this was planned; it just happened.”

“This sounds a little far-fetched to me. I’m tempted to tie you up between the Pillars of Truth and verify your story.”

Belgast grinned. “You’re more than welcome to do so, Your Majesty, but you know as well as I, it won’t change my story.”

Farin barked out a laugh. “It’s been years since you were at court, Lord Belgast, but I am not so old that I cannot admit when I have been outwitted. I will accept your explanation and listen to the proposal your High Thane wishes to discuss.”

“You are most gracious, Majesty,” said Athgar. “My intention in coming here is to secure a lasting peace with Kragen-Tor and assure you we bear no interest in claiming your lands. Quite the opposite, in fact. We are willing to take steps to ensure no one else tries to deprive you of them.”

“What are you proposing?”

“A treaty of mutual defence.”

“You are more likely to be attacked than us,” replied the vard.

“True, yet Belgast tells me you’ve had issues with both Zalista and Novarsk.”

“You are correct, but how can I trust you? According to Belgast, Novarsk is now part of your empire. Perhaps I’d be wiser to worry about Therengia on our border than Zalista?”

Kargen moved up to stand beside Athgar. “I am Kargen, Chieftain of the Red Hand. May I speak, Majesty?”

“You may.”

“Clearly, you distrust Humans, but would you take the word of another Elder Race? Therengia is not only a land of Humans, but also where Humans and Orcs live in peace and harmony. My tribe is but one of four now living under the banner of Therengia.”

“Don’t Orcs reside in the lands of Humans elsewhere on the Continent?”

“They do, Majesty, but Therengia is the only place where they participate in the ruling of the realm.”

“How do your people contribute?”

“The chieftain and shaman of each tribe sit on the ruling council of Therengia, with status equal to the Humans.”

“Most impressive,” said Vard Farin, “yet a mutual defence pact works to your advantage more than mine. We are but one city, whereas you rule over many more. And there’s your heritage, which sets the majority of the Petty Kingdoms against you. How do you propose we overcome these obstacles?”

“We would come to your aid if threatened,” replied Athgar, “and in return, we ask that you help those areas of our land within a reasonable distance of Kragen-Tor.”

“And what do you consider a reasonable distance?”

“Those details can be discussed later, providing you agree in principle.”

The vard sat back, stroking his beard once again. “I shall give this considerable thought, but before I decide, I must confer with my advisors.”

Athgar bowed slightly. “Of course, Majesty.”


Natalia stared into the bowl as the words of power issued from her lips. The water rippled, then the image of Svetlana appeared.

“Greetings,” said the Queen of Carlingen. “How are the negotiations in Kragen-Tor?”

“Progressing slowly. Belgast believes the vard will come round to our way of thinking but admits Dwarves take their time making decisions. How are things there?”

“We are doing well,” replied Svetlana. “We completed the casting circle in the Palace, and I’ve already used it to travel to Beorwic and back, as has Katrin, making it much easier for her to report on their progress in future. You’ll need to commit it to memory the next time you visit.”

“Speaking of Beorwic, how is that shaping up?”

“The Stone Crusher Orcs you arranged for have been most useful in clearing away hundreds of years' worth of forest growth, uncovering much of the ancient city. Unfortunately, there’s little left save for the foundations, but there’s enough rubble to meld into fresh stones.”

Natalia smiled. “The advantage of having masters of earth at hand. How goes the reconstruction?”

“Under Katrin’s supervision, they’ve begun work on new housing close to the stone pillars, and there’s no shortage of volunteers for just about every Therengian in Carlingen offered to help. We can’t pay them; we haven’t the funds, but in exchange for their assistance, they’ll get title to a plot of land.”

“And how fares the City of Carlingen?”

“It’s calmed down considerably. Temple Captain Cordelia sends her regards, by the way. She assumed temporary command of the town watch while we reorganized.”

“Town watch?”

“Yes, an amalgamation of the various groups who patrolled the city during the recent crisis. We’ve properly equipped them, and the Temple Knights are giving them some much-needed training in weapons.”

“You’ve certainly been busy,” said Natalia. “How are you doing?”

“Our finances are no longer an issue.”

“No. I mean, how are YOU doing? You look a little worn out.”

“I’m fine, all things considered.”

Even through the magic image, Natalia noticed her blush. “What is it you’re not telling me?”

Svetlana beamed. “I’m expecting.”

“Congratulations! That’s wonderful news. When did you discover this?”

“I’ve suspected it for some time, but the Royal Physician confirmed it last week. Any advice on what to expect?”

“Yes. Don’t be alarmed if you find yourself unable to cast. It’s only a temporary loss, so you needn’t worry.”

“And will my child be capable of using magic?”

“You’re from a long line of Stormwinds, so that’s possible. However, it’s not guaranteed, particularly as we know nothing about your husband’s history with magic.”

“I shall be glad for a child, magic or not. I was merely curious.”

“How does Maksim feel about it?”

“He’s ecstatic.”

“As he should be.” Natalia paused. “Perhaps I’ll visit you once we’re done here.”

“You’d be more than welcome. Shall I meet you in Beorwic?”

“No. I’ll meet with Katrin and have her bring us to Carlingen from there. I wouldn’t suggest using your magic for the next few months, especially the frozen arch spell. You might find yourself suddenly without the power to return.”

“I shall wait for you here, then. Any idea when to expect your arrival?”

“That depends on the stubbornness of Dwarves, but I doubt it’ll be for a few days, possibly even a week. I’ll contact you at the next prearranged time to make further arrangements.”

“Anything else you’d care to pass on?”

“Actually, yes,” said Natalia. “I recently heard from Galina that Reinwick and Andover are finally working together. They have big plans concerning their alliance, and both sent emissaries to Eidolon. Hopefully, we’ll soon see their alliance growing even stronger.”

“Do you think they’ll be successful?”

“I’m hoping so, but we’ve heard rumours of a Stormwind there, so it’ll be an uphill battle.”

“Any word on Halvaria?”

“No. Captain Grazynia said the Great Northern Sea has been relatively peaceful.” A shadow loomed over Natalia, and she looked up to see Athgar.

“Sorry to interrupt,” he said, “but we’ve been summoned back to the king’s presence.”

“He’s a vard,” called out Belgast. “You must remember that. You don’t want to upset him.”

“I stand corrected.”

“I’d best say goodbye,” said Natalia. “I’ll talk to you next week, as scheduled.” She waved her hand over the bowl and dismissed her spell, returning it to a simple water container.

“Everything all right?” asked Athgar.

“Svetlana is expecting a baby.”

“And is this a good thing?”

“Of course. Why would you think otherwise?”

“I worry the family might attempt to kidnap her child like they did with Oswyn.”

At the mention of her name, their daughter perked up. “Did you say Auntie Svetlana’s having a baby?”

Athgar raised an eyebrow. “Auntie Svetlana?”

“Well,” said Natalia, “she’s like a sister to me. What else would she call her?”

Oswyn strolled over, placing her hands on her hips. “You didn’t answer the question.”

“Now, now,” admonished Athgar. “Is that any way to speak to your mother?”

She stared at her feet. “No. Sorry.”

“Apology accepted,” said Natalia. “To answer your question, yes. Auntie Svetlana is expecting a baby.”

“Can we go visit her?”

“We must finish here first, so it’ll be a few days before we leave.”

Oswyn, never the type to stick around for explanations, ran off. “Agar! We’re going to see a baby!”

Natalia chuckled. “I haven’t the heart to tell her how long a pregnancy takes.”

“I’ll take care of it,” offered Skora. The old woman followed in Oswyn’s wake, showing remarkable speed for a person her age.

“We’d best get going,” said Athgar. “The vard won’t be happy to be kept waiting.”


Athgar and Natalia led the way, with Kargen and Shaluhk behind them. Belgast, an expert in Dwarf customs, followed along, ready to answer any questions that might arise.

The King’s Hall was the largest room in Kragen-Tor, with the Pillars of Truth anchoring one end and the vard’s throne at the other. Befitting a Lord of Stone, Farin’s throne sat on a raised platform, allowing him to look down on any seeking his judgement. While it worked well when those concerned were Dwarves, these taller Humans and Orcs left him with a more level gaze.

Athgar bowed deeply. “Majesty, we come at your bidding. Have you made a decision regarding our proposal?”

The Dwarven vard swept his gaze over his visitors. “I consulted with my advisors, discussing the matter at great length.”

“That doesn’t bode well,” muttered Belgast.

“While there is merit in your idea, other issues demand our attention at this precise time.”

Natalia straightened her back. “Might I ask what those issues are?”

“As you no doubt surmised, the bulk of our trade is with the Human Kingdom of Zalista, which lies to our north. We used to get along well with them, but their new king decided his treasury was low and imposed an additional tariff on our trade goods. We’ve discussed sending a delegate to his court to resolve the issue, but we’ve recently received reports His Majesty is casting a greedy eye south, to our mountain home.”

“Surely you don’t think he’ll attack?”

“Why attack when he can starve us out? He’s not after the city, just the gold filling our coffers.”

“What sort of exports do you refer to?”

“A variety of things,” replied Farin, “but mostly finished goods, particularly worked metal.”

“Does that include weapons?”

The vard nodded. “It does. Ironic that the very weapons we sold them could be used against us.”

“I’m sorry,” said Athgar. “I thought you said they wouldn’t attack?”

“And they won’t, but they can use their army to seal off the roads. Without trade, this city will starve.”

“If I might be so bold,” offered Natalia, “those items you spoke of would be most welcome in Therengia.”

“Would they, now? What tariff would you impose on us?”

“None.”

“None?”

“We require goods,” she continued, “and in exchange, we offer you the opportunity to purchase goods from us. If my information is accurate, you import large quantities of food, particularly grain. Is this true?”

“It is.”

“Then we only ask that, in return for accepting your goods, you pay a reasonable price for ours.”

“Which would be?”

“In that, I must defer to our Minister of Finance.”

“Who is?”

“Belgast Ridgehand, with whom I believe you have a history.”

Belgast sputtered, “M-me? Minister of Finance? Since when?”

“Since now,” said Natalia, “assuming the High Thane is in agreement?”

Athgar quickly nodded.

“I accept the position,” replied Belgast, “but perhaps next time you intend to spring something like that on me, you might give some advanced warning.”

The vard cleared his throat, garnering everyone’s attention. “That is most agreeable. Am I to understand you require weapons and armour as well?”

Belgast stepped closer. “We do, Majesty, particularly armour, which would need to be Human-sized as we don’t have a substantial Dwarven population.”

“And do your Orcs wear armour?”

“Not currently, but it’s worth considering in the future. Presently, our best warriors are clad only in mail.”

The vard snorted. “Mail? That’s rather archaic. Most of the Continent employs plate armour, at least for their knights, if not their footmen.”

“We employ no knights, Majesty. Merely a Thane Guard, although admittedly, that is now comprised of four companies.”

“And your archers?”

“Our Therengian archers use bows, but they pale in comparison to the warbows of the Orcs.”

Farin rubbed his hands together. “Well, that’s something we can help you with.” He rose from his throne, which caught his guards by surprise. Those on either side made to advance, but he halted them with a raised hand. He approached Athgar, standing before him in a pose much like what Oswyn had used earlier.

He thrust out his meaty hand. “We have an agreement, at least in principle. I shall work out the details with Belgast.”

Athgar cemented the deal. “I look forward to our two realms working closer, Majesty.”

“Enough of this Majesty nonsense. We are equals, you and I. Let’s dispense with the formalities and use our given names.”

“Of course.”

Farin turned to face Natalia and bowed. “You honour us with your presence, Lady Stormwind. I am well-aware of your family’s history regarding the mages of Karslev, but you may rest assured, we shall not hold it against you.”

“Did you know they are working with Halvaria?” said Natalia.

The vard shrugged his shoulders. “It doesn’t surprise me. There is far too much conflict amongst the Petty Kingdoms for it to be a coincidence. I’ve always suspected someone was behind it. Now you’ve put a face to it. Interestingly enough, I received a letter from Ruzhina just before you arrived.”

“Might I ask its nature?”

“They wished to send an emissary to my court. I refused them, but I expect they’ll try again.”

“If you want to stop them from asking again, tell them of our agreement.”

“Won’t that upset them?”

“Doubtless it will,” replied Natalia, “but their influence has weakened, and they are no longer the power they used to be.”

“I’m curious,” said Athgar. “How are you so well-informed about the politics of the Petty Kingdoms?”

Farin smiled. “One of my closest friends is the Guildmaster of the Smiths Guild, whose members travel the length and breadth of the Continent. As they go about their business, they hear things which they pass on to me.”

“Anything we should know about?”

“Nothing I can think of, but I shall be sure to let you know if I hear of any plans to attack Therengia.”

“Thank you. That is most generous.”

“Not at all. It’s the least I can do, considering our new trade agreement. Since it will take a few weeks to work out the details with Belgast, will the rest of you return home?”

“Natalia and I are travelling to Carlingen to visit a good friend of ours who is expecting her first child.”

“We are returning home,” replied Kargen. “There are tribe matters that need attending to. Will you take Oswyn with you to Carlingen?”

“I doubt she’d accept anything else.”

“Would you consider taking Agar with you?”

“It would be our pleasure.”