[b]"That is enough."[/b]  Lord Grimm said curtly, causing the two elves to nod and put their helmets back on.  Everyone was trying to sort out what they just saw in their own way.  Even after seeing, some were still questioning the validity of the elves identities, not that it matter to Grimm if they believed or not.

[i]"To think such rare specimens still existed, marvelous!  I commend you Lord Grimm on a job well done.  Please, let us quickly get into negotiations, I am anxious to reach a beneficial arrangement."[/i]  A very wealthy looking individual from the Onyx Empire spoke up, eagar to begin.

[i]"Indeed Lord Grimm, I am sure we can come to a better arrangement than the empire."[/i]  A merchant from the White Rock Confederacy countered.

[b]"I will be happy to go into deeper negotiations with you both but before that let me make myself quite clear."[/b]  Lord Grimm settled back down on his throne and gazed at the people assembled before him.  [b]"I allowed you here for a very specific reason.  Both sides came here in order to gain access to my domain so that they could launch a campaign against the other.  Your hatred for each other has caught my estate in the crossfire which is not a threat to take lightly."[/b]

Both sides shut up at this rather fitting assessment of the situation, there also seemed to be a bit of menace in Lord Grimm's voice and considering where they were, neither side wanted to anger him.

[b]"Thankfully for you both, I'll give you a chance to prove that you can be an asset rather than an annoyance.  As I hinted at in my invitations, there is something you can do for me and I intend to use this opportunity.  Daughters, introduce yourselves to our guests."[/b]  Lord Grimm beckoned to his daughters, who gracefully strode up in front and next to their father.  They glanced at each other and Esmerelda gave a slight nod, signifying that she would happily go second in introductions.  With a brilliant smile, Primrosa stepped forward for all to see, her bright golden hair and graceful figure was quite easy on the eyes and from her straight posture it was simple to see she was like a warrior princess.

[b]"Greetings members from afar, my name is Primrosa, first born of Lord Grimm and rightful heir to his estate.  I hope that you will choose to help me take my rightful place as the next Lord Grimm.  Thank you for your cooperation."[/b]  With a curtsy to end her short speech, she stepped back to allow Esmerelda to step forward next.

Esmerelda gave off quite a different impression from her sister and even appeared a little flustered to be up front, but with a deep breath she was able to start.  [b]"Welcome members of the Confederacy and the Empire.  My name is Esmerelda, twin sister to Primrosa.  I know that these negotiations will be difficult and I apologize for the trouble we cause you.  I know we appear selfish but I pray you will find it in your hearts to forgive us.  Whichever side decides to back me I will be most grateful for you support."[/b]  She gave a curtsy as well, which showed off her well-endowed figure a bit, and then stepped back to join her sister.

[b]"As you can see these are my two lovely daughters and I need to decide an heir.  Support between the two is roughly split in my court so, to decide which of you is worthy to enter a pact with, you will decide which shall be my heir.  You will fight a proxy war between your two nations on these very grounds and the victor will be allowed negotiations with me, as well as decide the next Lord Grimm."[/b]  Before anyone could ask any questions, Lord Grimm raised his hand for silence.  [b]"Before you ask, if either side refuses or gives up, I will automatically expel you from my land and enter negotiations with the other side.  I am sure neither side wishes for that."[/b]

Both sides thought about what was being proposed.  Essentially they were being asked to risk their lives to settle an internal dispute in Castle Grimm.  While few liked the idea of being used in such a fashion, the chance to finally have the first meaningful battle with the other side was getting their blood boiling.  [b]"If you agree to side with one of my daughters and start this proxy war I will explain the terms and rules of this engagement.[/b]