[center][b][h1]The Rise of the Second Kingdom of Osteria[/h1][/b][/center]

[center][b][h2]The Rise of the Snake [/h2][/b][/center]

As Duke Conrad sat in the grand hall with the other nobles of the land he couldn’t help but reminisce of when he was here mere months earlier. Serving the King as one of his advisors, though he had no ill will against Lord Marek, the old man never changed with the times. He and Marek often argued about the course of action the king should take, James often trying to do what was best for the realm and prosperity whereas Merek attempted to remain conservative to the old ways. In the end James lost too many times and was forced to leave, now there are rumors about what James truly did to be removed but James preferred it that way when no one knew the whole truth but himself. 

Eventually James came to the present as Lord Merek gave his announcement 
"[i]It is a great calling that now rests on your shoulders, Lords--and Lady[/i]," he said, looking to Duchess Anfel Allard, the renowned half-elf who had long kept relations with the stoic princes of Celihodon at a high. "[i]King Timault has fallen to Ash, but Osteria will rise anew. And it's new monarch sits in this very room. Who among you are qualified? Who among you would stand and give counsel as to why you wish yourself--or another--upon the throne?[/i]"

He stood for a long moment. "[i]Speak now. Speak.. freely. For every moment Osteria goes without a ruler, it's people will suffer[/i].

James waited but a mere moment glancing over the crowd before standing up. Though not the tallest of those in attendance he stood up as if had this divine right over him. “[i]Lord Merek, Baron Sforza and other lords and ladies of the realm. I Duke James Conrad, would like to nominate myself for ruler of this great land of Osteria. I served on King Timault on his council shortly before his death. My family as well were the first Dukes of the kingdom and are now the oldest lords of the land. To the people, I promise a swift vengeance against the orcs before a long reign of stability and prosperity while our old King was loved. I can attest to the fact he cared more on external affairs rather than the well being of our internal strife[/i]” James gave a humble bow before the crowd before sitting himself down.