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"LET'S GET THIS OVER with," Jorun said. "Why are you here?" He sat on the Inquisitional throne on the dais in the great hall in Brimir's Keep. The white-flecked marble of the throne contrasted sharply with his purple robe. The high priests of the Inquisition's supreme council stood on either side of the dais, wearing their ceremonial white robes lined with purple. Guards lined the walls. Finn stood at the foot of the dais, with Elina and Kelsa on his sides, looking up at Jorun.
"I'm here to warn you about the Ochloroc," Finn said.
'They're a myth," one of the high priests said. "Creatures to scare children."
"In that case," Finn said, "that myth to scare children just sacked Sylvgard and Sleiptalen."
"We know all about Sylvgard," the dignitary said. "They were attacked without provocation by the Manhir just a few days ago."
"That's a lie," Finn said. "I was at Sleiptalen, and there were no Manhir there attacking the city. It's the Ochloroc."
"Who are you calling a liar?" The high priest took a step towards Finn.
Jorun raised his hand, stopping the high priest. "Tell me, why should we trust the word of a traitor over hundreds of years of Inquisitional knowledge?"
Finn bit back an angry retort. He took a deep breath. "You know I'm a man of honor. I give you my word that I speak true. I saw what I saw."
"You're a convicted criminal, known for your aggressive behavior." Jorun rubbed his nose. "Your word has no meaning."
"He speaks the truth." Kelsa stepped forward. "I was there, just a few days ago, when the Ochloroc attacked Sleiptalen."
A murmur rose as the high priests whispered to one another.
Jorun raised his hand again, silencing the high priests. "Even if it is true, why should we care?"
"I saw them in action," Finn said. "They have infernal machines that spit fire, and stone-and-clay golems that fight for them. They took Sleiptalen not in days, but in a matter of hours."
"Brimir is much better defended than Sleiptalen," Jorun snorted. "We can easily defeat them. I see no reason for concern."
That's because you're a blind fool with no military talent or experience, Finn thought. "We can't face them divided," he said. "They will overrun us city by city unless we work together."
"And who is responsible for this division?" Jorun asked. "There is a very simple solution to fix this divide."
"You can have Gilgin back," Finn said. "I don't want it." Kelsa stirred at his side. "The only thing I ask in return is that you let the Manhir live in peace."
"The terms of your surrender are non-negotiable," Jorun said. "The Manhir die. Though I am tempted to add your execution to the list."
"Bah, you're impossible." Finn made a dismissive gesture. "Stop being childish and look to the greater good! We need the Manhir in the coming struggle."
"We don't need your demons to fight for us," Jorun said. "The library in Uneltemus is filled with tales of their misdeeds. Don't you find it a bit too convenient that as soon as they show up, Sylvgard and Sleiptalen get invaded?"
"They are on our side," Finn said. "They always have been."
"That's heresy," Jorun said. "Spreading those lies alone is enough to earn you a death sentence."
"We will all die without their aid," Finn said, pleading with his hands.
"Those are the words of a heretic," Jorun said. "Careful what you say, or I might forget you're here under the flag of truce."
"We must be able to reach some understanding," Finn said. "What if they move across the land, away from Gilgin?"
"It is our duty to exterminate all demons we come across!" Jorun slapped his hand on the armrest of his throne. "It is clear now that you have gone over to their side."
"You're impossible!"
Jorun jumped up. "This meeting is over!" He pointed to the exit. "You are a traitor to your people! Next time you set foot in Brimir you will be arrested, flag of truce or no. And let it be known that any man, woman, or child who arrests you will be rewarded with a title and lands."
Finn shook his head. What a stubborn ass. He turned around and walked out, head held high. When he was almost at the door, Kelsa caught up to him and grabbed his arm. "Let me talk to him. Maybe I can talk some sense into him."
"I doubt it," Finn said, "but feel free to give it a try."
"Go ahead," Kelsa said. "He might be more flexible when there aren't so many people around. I'll catch up."
Finn nodded and Kelsa walked back. Finn looked after her. She had a seductive sway in her step. He headed out of the great hall, Elina in tow. A drizzle fell as they waited in the courtyard for Kelsa to appear.
"Do you think she'll get him to come round?" Elina asked.
"If anyone can do it, she can." Finn thought of Kelsa's swaying hips. "She can be very persuasive."
Elina shook her head. "Men," she snorted in disgust.
Kelsa appeared a moment later, a solemn look on her face. Finn looked at her questioningly, and Kelsa shook her head.
"Damn that stubborn bastard," Finn said. "I guess we're on our own, then."