[center][b][i]A well placed knife for those whom armies cannot conquer.[/i][/b]
- [i]On the Tools Political[/i], by Athalus daz Velym, Dictator of Zar Dratha[/center]

[b][url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/posts/4576410]Previously...[/url][/b]

[b]Present Day, Kingsport, the High Queen's Solar....[/b]

She was standing by the window, watching the moon rise through drifting fog. She knew she was not alone, though there did not appear to be anyone else in the room. She knew she would never again be truly alone again, for she would never know when [i]he[/i] was present.

"You did well, Majesty," said a quiet voice, thick with the accents of the Ashlands, "Erlendr will serve you well as Regent."

The Queen did not respond, but her eyes closed. 

"Most unfortunate that the Blacktooth wastes his men attacking Sentinel. I had asked you to restrain the Stonecutters."

"I tried," said the High Queen, "These men do not listen to me."

"It would seem not," said the voice, "But I will ask you to try harder, the next time I make such a request. You remember our arrangement?"

"Arrangement?" asked the Queen, "Arrangement?! What kind of arrangement is this? I do as you say, as the Coward says, or you threaten murder!? You threaten my son!?"

"Just so," said the quiet voice.