[i]"I nominate Erlendr of Clan Red Knot as regent."[/i]

Gunni saw the look of astonishment on his father’s face as Daigon butted into the proceedings. He’d been too young to understand politics at the time of the Isles’ unification, but he’d heard the stories of his father leading the charge that broke the Shattered Moon’s will to resist. He’d also heard of Jarl Daigon’s - [i]the Coward’s[/i] notoriety. Was the man really backing his former enemy?

Erlendr could scarcely believe what he’d just heard. It was Daigon’s defeat to the combined Red Knot-Stonecutter army that exiled him in the first place. Had his employ by the Drathans changed him? All these years and Daigon’s instinct told him not to harass his former opponent, but to support him, in a bid for regent, no less. Not to mention, how had he known of the moot in the first place? Varvudda certainly didn’t invite him, if their exchange was any indication. 

The Jarl of the Red Knot took a breath to regain his composure. [i]What are you playing at, Daigon?[/i] 

“Your arrival is most unexpected, Daigon,” Erlendr began, stepping forward. “Some might wonder how you knew of this moot in the first place.” He extended his hand to the Jarl of Sepulchrave.

“As you say, ‘old arguments died with Aigoth.’ I can only assume, by your nomination, this goes for our clans as well?” 

[i]Might as well play along for now,[/i] he thought to himself.

"Aye," said Daigon, clasping Erlendr's hand. "The past is dead. Let us be rid of its lingering shade. If we are to live as free men, we must fight together. The Southrons and their gods are coming. Send longboats south, see the gathering armada for yourselves."

"I accept this nomination," Erlendr declared to the assembly, "for the position of regent of the Broken Isles, until High King Aigoth II is of age - should it please Her Majesty." He looked to the queen, still silent. "If what Daigon says is true, we must reach a decision and act."