[center][h1][color=B22222]The border between the kingdom of Vulpinia and the dominion of Epha[/color][/h1][/center] [color=B22222] “Are you sure you want to do this? Your sister will be pissed when she finds out that you once again acted on your own, Rowen.’’ [/color] Rowen, the elder brother of Raelin, looked up to the warrior who was speaking to him. Now matter how hard he tried he could not hide his irritation when someone mentioned his sister. Just the fact that their parents made her leader of the clan infuriated Rowen. Maybe even more than Ephans settling into their territory. [color=B22222] “Ofcourse I am sure about what to do. My sister isn’t here. She’s sipping some expensive wine far far away while we are sitting here in the melting snow observing some Ephan village. Don’t fucking mention her when she’s not relevant!” Rowen Loinsigh paused to regain his composure. He looked around to the other 12 warriors that were with him. They had been observing the village unnoticed for the last week and were ready to make their move. [color=B22222] “ Here’s the plan. Ten men left on the hunting trip two hours ago. They usually get back near dawn. So there should be 3 adult male humans of fighting age in the village. Two guard the entrance and seem to be beast-knights. No survivors. Cian, you lure the guards away to the pass near the cliffs. Once they are there we rain down boulders on them to throw them over the edge. Once the two guards have plummeted to their deaths, we storm the village, kill everyone we encounter and burn it down to the ground. No survivors.”[/color] Cian raised his thumb as a sign of approval, the smirk on his face betrayed that he liked the plan. Picking fights and annoying people was something this Vulpin was particularly good at. Trash talking was his forte. Darragh, the warrior who had spoken out before shook his head. Burning villages and killing women and children was a clear escalation of a border conflict over hunting grounds. [/color=B22222] “Rowen, I don’t like this plan of yours. Killing women and children, burning villages. Are we savages who kill the defenseless? How can this be right?” [/color] Angered Rowen grabbed his companion by his muzzle and showed his razor sharp teeth. [color=B22222]” Shut up. I’m done with your complaining. This is not about who is right! This is about who is left! How much people have starved in your village this winter because Ephans hunted our game? Four? Five? As long as these fuckers continue to hunt in our lands it will be Vulpin starving to death. There is not enough for both of us. So are you going to help your Vulpin brothers and sisters survive or are you a supporter of humans who procreate faster than bunnies and need to steal other people’s food to survive?” [/color] With the scolding complete all Vulpin warriors took their position. With a wave of his hand Rowen ordered his warriors to execute his plan. Cian casually walked around the corner of the pass and approached the guards till about 100 feet. Both Beast-knight weren’t really paying much attention to their surroundings and didn’t the Vulpin warrior coming around the corner. Slowly Cian grabbed an arrow from the quiver on his back and drew back his bow. As he released the string, the arrow shot out of the bow and curved through the sky. With a solid twang it landed right between the feet of one of the guards. [color=B22222]”Yo dominion losers, I know that it’s kinda cool for you naked monkeys to dress up like me but nothing beats a real fur pelt. Just pretending to be an awesome Vulpin doesn’t make you furfuraceous lobberworths worthy of standing in my shadow. Even combined you’re not even half the warrior I am. I really wanted to say ‘I did your wife’ but have you looked at your face? It screams virgin for life louder than a thunderstorm on the mountain peaks. Why don’t you wankers suck my cock? That way I’m doing you a favor so that you can die knowing that you’ve made it to 3th base!”[/color] The string of insults certainly hit its mark. Annoyed, the two Beast-Knights grabbed their longswords. [color=6578F0] “That were your last words, vermin!” Yelled one of the guards as he started to close the distance. [color=B22222]”Whoa, big sword you get there buddy. Compensating for something? Catch me if you can, slowpokes!” [/color] Jested Cian as he lured the two Beast-Knights away from the village and onto the small ledge overlooking the cliff. The ledge was only around half a meter wide and the canyon below was deep enough that no one would survive a fall. The melting snow was making the rock rather slippery but Cian had little trouble maintaining his balance due to his tail. The two Beast-Knights however struggled with the difficult terrain and slippery rocks in their heavy armor. [color=6578F0] “Great warrior my ass! All you vermin ever do is talk trash and run away. Quit wasting our time and go back to the hole in the ground that your rodent kind crawled out of.” [/color] Yelled one of the Beast-Knights. Before he could send out more insults the first rocks started to rain down. Quickly Cian pressed himself against the rocky wall of a small cave in while the two Beast-Knights frantically raised their shields above their heads to avoid the onslaught of boulders coming from above. It didn’t take long for the first Beast-Knight to lose his balance and fall over the edge. As the second one tried to make his way back to the more wider plateau where his village was located he lost track of where Cian was. Noticing the lack of focus on him, the Vulpin warrior seized this opportunity and slammed himself in the back of the large warrior of the Ephan dominion. The force of the small Vulpin’s slam was enough to send the large man over the edge. [color=B22222] “ Don’t worry about the fall. It’s the landing that kills you” [/color] Shouted Cian with a grin as he watched the last Beast-Knight plummet to his death. With the Beast-Knights out of the way and the other men from the village not around, there was little that stood in the way of Rowen and his gang. With a wave of his hand the 13 Vulpin warriors stormed the small Ephan village and killed everyone who they could find. As the screams of the dying fade away, the black smoke of the burning village rises. Some would consider it a victory, others an act of barbarism. But everyone agreed that it was most likely the start of something bigger. As repercussions would surely happen when word of the attack would reach the High Sentinel of the Dominion of Epha. [center][h1][color=B22222]The Palm Beach Bath house[/color][/h1][/center] The Vulpin delegation had settled themselves into their temporary home for the upcoming festivities. Cael Drumain Wintertail watched as the servants unloaded all the baggage their diplomatic delegation had brought to the Arkronian capital. For most nations the amount of baggage was considered small, however the Vulpin generally travel light without excess baggage such as ceremonial clothing, extensive gifts and other trinkets. However for an Arkronian coronation ceremony, no diplomatic delegation could afford to look like a bunch of weary travelers. The prime servant’s attention quickly turned towards Chief Finlay, the leader of the king’s warband. The stoic warrior was once again instructing his warriors on the guard procedure, as he always did. For a moment their gazes crossed and the icy stare of the warchief pierced the mind of Cael. He knew the warchief didn’t agree with his methods but both vulpin had different jobs. Finlay ran the king’s warband and Cael practically ran the kingdom. The prime servant needed to do what needs to be done to keep his people safe. It didn’t take long before Callumn Dubhghaill Longear approached the prime servant. A bit nervous the young warrior spoke softly. [color=B22222] Uhm, sir Drumain. Chief Finlay said you requested an escort for tonight.” Cael gave his younger companion a friendly smile and noticed that he had picked him right. Barely enough winters seen to be called a man. Just the way he liked them. Callumn would surely do. [color=B22222]“Yes, that is right. I’m going into the city tonight. Arkronia is a dangerous place with perils lurking around every corner.”[/color] [color=B22222]”Is it really that bad? I thought the Arkronians are obsessed with order and safety?”[/color] spoke the young warrior as he tried his best to hide his surprise. [color=B22222]”Normally Arkronia is the safest place on Mycoria. But not during a coronation ceremony. All the vazals have sent delegations and not all the different people of our realm get along. Things could get messy if we’d run into Ephans or Yuravians. Some nations hardly forget and never forgive.”[/color] [color=B22222]”I see, not everyone has forgotten the betrayal that our king did. I’d better keep my eyes open.”[/color] Cael just smiled. Much to his own surprise the young Callumn was even more gullible than he thought. Everything the prime servant just had told him was mostly false. No nation in their right mind would pick a fight with representatives of another nation under the ever watchful eyes of the Arkronian nation. Not to mention that Cael had much different plans for the young warrior. With the ease of someone who frequented the great Arkronian capital on numerous occasions Cael and his young guardian navigated the mostly deserted streets in the evening before the coronation ceremony would start. The ghost of the Grey Death was clearly haunting the great Arkronian capital. The prime servant guided his companion through the wide lanes and orderly buildings until they reached the large, walled and beautiful complex known as the Palm Beach Bath house. Steam and smoke rises up from various chimneys and the sounds of talking and laughter could be heared from beyond the walls. [color=B22222]”What is this place?” [/color]Asked Callumn as he looked in wonder at the marvelous building and the smoking chimneys. [color=B22222]”A bathhouse.”[/color]. [color=B22222]”A bathhouse? Arkronians don’t wash themselves in rivers like us?” [/color] It was clear that this was Callumn Dubhghaill first trip to the kingdom of Arkron. Everything was new for the young Vulpin as this was his first introduction to the very different lifestyle of the Arkronian people. For just one moment Cael recognized himself in the young man as he had once many years ago looked in amazement at the wonders of the Arkronian capital. The prime servant quickly continued his way to the front entrance of the Palm Beach Bathhouse. Since this was a place that people enjoyed in their birthday-suit, the entrance actually consisted of two separate grand doors. One on the left for the male patrons and the one on the right for the female patrons. In Arkronian culture it was considered indelicate to be exposed when being around the other sex. Cael quickly made his way to the large counter where a host of servants were waiting for customers to approach and state what kind of service they wanted. [Color=B22222]”Alan Arkronis. I am a seeker of knowledge and willing to pay the gold price”[/color] Spoke Cael in fluent Arkron. For a moment the human servant gazed at the two Vulpin in front of him. The fox-like people from Vulpinia weren’t known for being rich however there were always exceptions, such as the owner of this bathhouse. [color=B22222]”What is the name of he who seeks out knowledge?”[/color] Asked the servant. [color=B22222]” Tell master Breathnach that Cael Drumain of clan Wintertail seeks him out”[/color] With a small nod the servant left his post only to return a few minutes later. He quickly guided the two Vulpin through a hallway that gave access to the many private bathing rooms this bathhouse offered.The Servant opened up the door on the farthest end of the hallway and let the guests in. Cael and Callumn found themselves in the dressing room. The room was exquisitely decorated with expensive wooden furniture and offered several cavins in the wall where the guests could stow their clothes away. The floor was tiled with an exquisite mosaic depicting a scene of bathing gods. The prime servant quickly started to undress himself, neatly folding up his robes and stowing them away just before he noticed that it took his younger companion a while before he followed his example. Maybe the young warrior was a bit shy or just flabbergasted about the sheer size and beauty of the city. It didn’t really matter as long as he proved to be good company. The servant opened the door and Cael stepped through the doorway, closely followed by a rather nervous Callumn. The eyes of the prime servant scanned the place, from the cabinet filled with exclusive drinks to the various couches on the side and the round bath in the middle. Not much had changed since his last visit to this place. Peatyr Breathnach quickly rose up from the bath and gave Cael a long hug. It was a common greeting between acquainted Vulpin to hug each other but everytime the prime servant received a hug from this man it sent shivers down his spine. Just the sensation of his touch brought back memories Cael preferred to keep stown away. [color=B22222]” Long time no see Cael. How was the journey to the glorious capital of the realm?”[/color] Spoke the owner of the bathhouse as if he was greeting an old friend. Yet both men knew that their relationship could not be classified as friendship. They were acquaintances through common grounds. A relationship that was beneficial enough for both to continue to see eye to eye for as long it would last. [color=B22222]”Yeah, it’s been a while since i’ve visited the Arkronians. If I had known that the place was suffering from a depression i had refused to go on the long and boring trip to Arkronia.”[/color] [color=B22222]”Who is your new friend?”[/color] Asked Peatyr as he checked out the young warrior with a curious gaze. [color=B22222]”Deya.”[/color] Which means payment in the Arkronian tongue awnsed Cael coldly. [color=B22222]”It seems that you’ve acquired the eye for the finer things in life my friend. For complete ownership I can share some of the information you desire.”[/color] Continued Peatyr in the Arkronian language. [color=B22222]”You don’t have information valuable enough to gain ownership over a member of the kings warband. You can get sixty minutes. In exchange you tell me everything you know about this plague and how it affects the Arkronian court.”[/color] Said Cael coldly. Peatyr just smiled. [color=B22222]”If that is all you wish to know, then we have a deal. There is a lot I can do in sixty minutes.”[/color] Peatyr switched back to the Vulpin language and gave his guest a friendly nod. [color=B22222]“Your Arkronian has once again improved, I’m sure you can handle yourself around the grey court. But the rumours you heard are true. There is a sickness rampaging through the country that only affects the Arkronian people. Other races seem to be immune to this sickness. One of the historians who works at the grand library told me that there are ancient accounts from their homeworld describing this sickness. There is no cure and most who get infected with this disease eventually die from it. The historian said that the accounts speak of an era of great decline that took over a hundred years to recover from.”[/color] The prime servant listened closely as the owner of palm beach spoke. So the situation is far worse than the Grey Men are willing to show us. The era of the Arkronians might end sooner than anyone could assume. [Color=B22222] “How bad is the situation? Does it affect the Arkronian government and military?[/color] [color=B22222]”The situation is pretty bad but it gets mostly hidden from the public. All walks of life are affected. People die in the hundreds every day, thousands are sick. The Arkronians stay at home out of fear of the disease. Commerce is declining, many military units are unfit to be deployed and Amon-Mar IV has died of this disease. The crown prince is sick as well. His personal healer is a friend of mine. He told me that the healers are doing as much as they can to extend his life as much as they can. However there seems to be little doubt that Rakon-Da will die as well.”[/color] Cael Drumain was aware of the fact that Rakon-Da was the last in the current royal bloodline. If he dies, the Arkronian clergy would have to select a new bloodline. [color=B22222] “ Hmm, who has the best papers for being the next Arkronian king?” [/color] Asked the prime servant. [color=B22222] “Well, I’m pretty sure Ekram-Rhas of house Rhaskozikan will do a push for the throne. He’s a bit controversial within the court for his rather harsh stances but has some powerful friends who might just help him succeed in his attempt.”[/color] Cael closed his eyes to overthink the situation. The prospect of having Ekram-Rhas as the supreme lord of the realm wasn’t something he was looking forward to. That man did not hide his hate for the other races and was considered a warmonger. If he were to lead the Arkronian kingdom there would certainly be chaos and bloodshed. He would drag the nations of Mycoria into another bloody war and that was something the Vulpin weren’t ready for. [color=B22222]”Who are his opposition?”[/color] [color=B22222]”Who knows what might come from unexpected parties. Anyway, you should see the new gardens. I’ve had them remodeled in the last few weeks. They are exquisite.”[/color] Said Peatyr with a grin as a sign that he felt that he had shared enough with the Vulpin as his end of the bargain. The prime servant sighed. He had hoped to get some more information out of peatyr but it was clear he wasn’t willing to share more. Cael could not help to wonder what the man ment with ‘unexpected parties’. Was he referring to some other Arkronian noble houses? Or something different. Was that shady Vulpin implying that non-Arkronian parties could seize the Arkronian crown? Peatyr Breathnach walked to the cabinet and poured two glasses of wine. He let his hand g over a small bottle in the back of the cabinet. For a moment he considered adding some of the small bottles contents to the drink but for now resisted the urge. He had an hour to do as he pleased so no reason rush. The owner turned his attention to his other guest who was relaxing in the bath. With a friendly smile he offered the glass of wine to the young warrior. [color=B22222]” So, what is your story?”[/color] Callumn has not given the others in the room much attention. Just sitting in the hot water felt great for his worn out body. He had been carrying the king’s standard for the entire journey to the Arkron capital after all. The sudden question awakened him from his slumber. [color=B22222]”uhm.. My story? I’m not sure if that is an interesting one.”[/color] murmured Callumn. {color=B22222]”Not an interesting one? You’re at your age with the king’s warband. You’re not giving yourself enough credit son”[/color] Responded Peatyr. Of course the older Vulpin knew exactly why the young warrior was added to the warband. It was all Cael’s doing because the Vulpin generally lacked the coin to pay the huge sums of money he demanded in those days. [color=B22222]” Getting into the king’s warband wasn’t really my idea. I never really considered it because I'm not that gifted as a warrior to be honest. I’ve never beaten my older brother once in a mock fight”[/color] Spoke Callumn softly as he bowed his head. [color=B22222]” The other warriors in the warband don’t see me as a true member. Just as someone who got forced down their throat. They all have earned their stripes in combat. Some fought in the mountains against Ephan incursions and others in the civil war in Cantor. And me? Nothing. I am just the son of a friend from the king. Not wanted at home and not wanted where I am today.”[/color] Callumn believed that even his father viewed him as a failure. The young warrior would never forget the looks of disappointment when other warriors would have him eat dirt in training or when he returned from a hunting trip with little to show for. He was born in the shadow of his brother and would die in it as well. [color=B22222] “And yet you are here, in the lion's den as a member of the king's warband who has sworn an oath to protect his king. You might feel that you stand in the shadows of those who have accomplished more but your day will come when you have to live up to your oath and earn your stripes. Maybe even sooner than you think.”[/color] Callumn gazed in confusion at the older Vulpin at the other side of the bath. He wasn’t sure what he was talking about and why was he calling the safest city of the realm a lion’s den? So many questions and feelings raced through his mind and body that needed to be answered. [color=B22222]”What do you mean? With sooner than you think?”[/color] [color=B22222]”Well, young one. This is the great Arkronian capital. A city built on the backs of countless Mycorians who were forced to give their life for the wealth of a people from far beyond the sea. Nobody really likes the Arkronians and the Arkronians certainly don’t particularly like the others. Not to mention that king Aidar is rather controversial. Especially the Ephan’s hate his guts. They have lost many men due to his betrayal during the 3rth revolution. The city is basically filled with people who consider each other enemies. And many would like to see king Aidar bleed.” [/color] The words of the Vulpin shocked the young warrior. Was he implying that his king is in danger? Was someone plotting to take his life? And why was he telling him this and not Cael? Wasn’t the prime servant not the right man to deal with this situation? Peatyr noticed that his young guest was at a loss of words for now so he continued to talk. [color=B22222]”I can see you have many questions. Well, knowing things and sharing that information with the right people is my job. It is true that king Aidar is in danger. I’ve learned that the Ephans have hired an assassin to take his life. Well, hired might be a bit much. There is this Arkronian noble, a very influential figure who has a certain peculiar taste for entertainment. He likes to kill members of the other races. He finds the act of rather arousing. He’s so influential that he will get away with murdering a vassal king. Unless of course he will be stopped before he can commit the act.” [/color] Peatyr paused to judge the young warrior’s reaction. If it wasn’t for the young man’s fur, the would certainly be pale right now. As it was probably the first time that someone told him that there would be an attempt on the life of his king. The big question was would he feel obligated to act on this information? [color=B22222]”Why are you telling me this?”[/color] Murmured the young warrior. [color=B22222]” Shouldn’t you share this information with Cael?”[/color] Peatyr closed his eyes and continued in a bit more dramatic tone. [color=B22222]”Cael turned a position of serving wine and food into a powerful political office in just a matter of a few years. That man is very ambitious but cannot further increase his political power from his current position. He has been stagnant for years now. In order to further advance in power he will need to become the next king of the Vulpin and king Aidar is not the kind of man who goes for an early retirement.”[/color] It was clear to Callumn that Peatyr was convinced that Cael would not do anything to stop this assasination attempt. The more the owner of the bathhouse spoke about it, the more the young warrior felt that it was up to him to prevent this disaster. [color=B22222]”What can I do? I should talk about it with Chief Finlay, right? He can do something about it.”[/color] spoke Callumn. [color=B22222]”No, unfortunately not. His hands are tied and the assasination will take place during the opening banquet. Chief Finlay would not be able to protect the king. The only way to make sure that king Aidar lives is to take the life of his assassin before he can commit his act.It needs to be done quickly and secretly. He is an influential noble. This is your chance to live up to your oath.” Callumn knew the man was right. This was his chance to prove that he would be more than just the guy that carried the flag, that he could be a great warrior and do what was necessary to protect his king. The young warrior finely felt that he had arrived at the crossroads of destiny. That he was standing before the choice between insignificance and relevance. And more importantly, that it was his choice to make. [color=B22222]“Tell me the details, I will do what needs to be done”[/color] Spoke the young warrior Peatyr Breathnach just smiled. He had found his gullible chum that was willing to do his bidding. [center][h1][color=B22222]Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities[/color][/h1][/center] King Aidar Fir Shadowfax was standing before the grand doors of the great hall with his companions. Patiently they awaited to be called in just like the rest of the crowd that had gathered to attend the opening banquet. Many had been invited to this ceremony passing such an invitation down was not something most people could afford. It didn’t take long before a servant approached the king and asked his group to follow him to their seats. As the old king and his group entered another servant announced their names. [color=B22222]”King Aidar Fir Shadowfax of Vulpinia, Prime Servant Cael Drumain Wintertail, Sovereign Raelin Loinsigh of clan Palebrush, Warchief Representing the kingdom of Vulpinia.” [color=B22222] Cael, the prime servant turned his head towards the young warrior who was carrying a large crate behind him. It contained 10 bottles of Vulpinian shining moon. A spirited drink made with grains and various psychoactive mushrooms that is distilled only once a month under the full moon. Only one bottle is produced every month and the drink is generally only consumed by the Vulpin shamans during religious ceremonies. They often say that drinking shiningmoon brings you closer to the spirits. Needless to say that Shiningmoon is an extremely rare item to possess. [color=B22222] Callumn, you can give the gifts to that Arkronian servant. They will handle it from here.” [/color] Spoke Cael as he wondered why the young warrior volunteered to carry the gifts for the new king. They hadn’t spoken much since their visit to the bathhouse but the prime servant assumed that it was because of what the owner had done to him. Cael just knew all too well what the tastes of that man are and how it affects someone. The young warrior seemed to handle it very well. The servant took the Vulpin delegation to their seats. Much to their surprise, the Vulpin were sharing the table with the Dominion of Epha, the Saa’kaaleed and assumebly the remaining seats seemed to be reserved for the delegation of Yuravia. As the Vulpin delegation took their seats, they could feel the gazes of the high Paladins from the Dominion pierce them as they followed every move the fox-like people made. With as much elegance the elderly king of the Vulpin could muster himself and sat himself down in the chair that was reserved for him before giving a friendly greeting to the Ephan delegation in front of him. [color=B22222] “ Greetings, by the looks of it high Sentinel Augustus himself does not grace us with his presence today. I hope he’s in the best of health.” [/color] Inquired the old Vulpin king. [/color=6578F0] “ As if the traitor king cares so spare me those faked pleasantries! Thanks to you many good men died on the battlefield and we’re still living under the yoke of the Arkronians”[/color] Grumphed High Paladin Charles McArthur who was clearly displeased that he had to share a table with those wretched creatures. 50 years ago it was the Vulpin who betrayed the rebellion and switched sides to the crown. They lured the Dominion’s army into an ambush and many beast knights died. Something the dominion has not forgiven nor is able to forget. This event alone has severely strained the relations between both the Kingdom of Vulpinia and the Dominion of Epha. In recent years border clashes have become more common. [color=B22222]”Look who’s talking. For centuries you have invaded lands that do not belong to you. If you lot just stay put in your frozen homes there would not be a problem. Just keep your popsicle brigade where they belong. Otherwise you might lose some more of your precious men.” [/color] Jested Realin Loinsigh, sovereign of Clan palebrush who ruled the border region between the kingdom of Vulpinia and had to deal with the Ephans on various occasions. [color=6578F0] “Big treats coming from mountain dwelling vermin. But we all know they are as empty as a Vulpin’s promise. Everyone knows that if your puny little ragtag gang of oversized rodents ever step foot on the frozen plains you’d get crushed.” [/color] Spoke High Paladin Nylah Harlenton agitated as she joined in the verbal exchange of unpleasantries. [Color=B22222]”And why should we do that? The northern plains are your land, the mountains are ours. It is not us who’s violating the territorial integrity of another nation. [/çolor] Spoke Realin Loinsigh with a smile. She enjoyed this kind of conversation and she was more or less right. It was that just both nations claimed some of the same territories in the mountain ranges. Before any of the Ephans could respond, the old Vulpin king spoke up once more. [color=B22222]“I must remind you all that we are here to celebrate the coronation of the next Arkronian king. I suggest we enjoy their wine and food in peace for the coming days. We would make poor guests if we’d spend our time here arguing about such trivial matters. It is better to set our differences aside for the coming days then invoke the wrath of an insulted host.” [/color] The Rea-Abi of the Saa’kaaleed turned his head and joined the conversation [color=46C177] “To debate like hounds in the desert fighting of the last scrap of meat will certainly agitate our hosts. I must compliment king Aidar on his level of wisdom. It has certainly grown over the past 50 years.”[/color] Cael Drumain, the prime servant of the king, had kept himself mostly absent of the small verbal scuffle on their table. It didn’t serve his interest to get into the petty arguments about a border issue that would not be resolved at this table anyway. The fact was that he was more concerned by the fact that the Arkronians had placed their delegation on the same table as the Ephan’s. They were certainly aware of the fact of the animosity between the two nations. Had the Vulpin fallen out of favor or did this situation serve as a warning. The ceremonies had not yet officially started but it already proved to become an interesting evening. Cael turned his head towards his king and started to whisper in his ear. [color=B22222]“Peatyr is convinced that the crown prince is gravely ill. He might not live very long. By the information i’ve gathered, the kingdom of Arkron might be at the start of a steep decline. We might not be able to rely on the deterrence from the Arkronians when it comes to the Ephan border question. I think it is wise to use these festivities to strengthen our relations with the Rheatian Republic and the kingdom of Cor. Otherwise we might run the risk of standing alone when the current order fails.”[/color] King Aider turned to his servant and looked a bit annoyed at him. Did Cael really think that he had failed to notice? The old Vulpin was still aware enough of the situation in the Arkronian capital. The wind of change is blowing and would soon swep everything in its path away. [color=B22222]”I agree with your judgement. For too long we’ve isolated ourselves and neglected our foreign relationships. You should engage in a conversation with the Avans and Ruline tonight. Maybe we can find some mutual ground for cooperation.”[/color] [center][h1][color=89E9F7]Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities - Confederacy of Skekari[/color][/h1][/center] [color=89E9F7] “Look at them, just mingling with the other leaders as if they are the true representatives of the Skekari people.”[/color] Spoke Lehm Jeteya, the Cynn of the Confederacy of Skekari towards his fellow countrymen at the table. The animosity between the rivaling Skekari nations was well known. Their rivalry was that bitter that they always had joined opposite sides of rebellions throughout their history. [color=89E9F7] “Yes, if it wasn’t for the Arkronians we could end the triarchs and unify the country under the tribal system. However there are a lot of rumors regarding plague and such. Perhaps the times are changing and an opportunity might arise in the near future to reshape our people’s destiny.” [/color] Spoke on of the Skekari clansmen that accompanied the Cynn to the Arkronian capital. [color=89E9F7] “Perhaps, who is going to keep the Triarchs safe when the Arkronians no longer are capable of doing that? However our current military power is not sufficient to overthrow the Triarchs. We should seek allies and supporters from beyond our lands ” [/color] Spoke the Cynn softly. [color=89E9F7] “I agree. Maybe the Yuravians are interested in an alliance. We’ve fought on the same side during the last rebellion. If the power of the Arkronians is declining, they might be interested in trying to break free from vassalage again. If we want the Skakari to revert back to the old ways, vassalage to the throne is something we should get rid of too.” [/color] Whispered the clansman. The Cynn knew his companion was right. With Yuravian support it would become possible to end the rule of the triarchs and create a unified Skekari nation to fight alongside the rebels against the throne. [color=89E9F7] “Send to word to the Yuravian confederacy.”[/color] [hider=A message to Yuravia] Greetings Chief Leokadra of the great Yuravian confederation, Rumors of a great plague and weakening Arkronian government must have reached your court as well. We strongly believe that the times are changing and the power of the Arkronians will decline in the near future. Strong opportunities to break free of unfair bonds might soon present themselves for our glorious nations. Opportunities to shape a future for our nations without servitude to a distant monarch. In the lights of change I seek your aid in shaping a new future. Not only for the Skekari people but for Mycoria as a whole. A future that contains a unified Skekari nation in a realm that is free of Arkronian rule. The Confederacy of Skakari seeks Yuravian aid in overthrowing the Triarchs, mere puppets of the Arkronians and unifying the people under the tribal leadership. As a unified Skekari nation, we will support any rebellion against the Arkronian crown. Let me know if the Yuravians are willing to join in an alliance with the Confederacy of Skekari in order to pursue a realm free of Arkronian rule. Yours sincerely, Lehm Jetera Cynn of the Skekari [/hider] [@Yam I Am] [@Blandina] [center][h1][color=B854C7]Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities - An offer to the king of Avans[/color][/h1][/center] All parties have their strange guests of whom might wonder why they were invited in the first place. The opening banquet of the coronation festivities for crown prince Rakon-Da was no different. When the political and business elite of the realm would congregate, shady characters would see opportunities to conduct business and would wiggle their way into the place that would normally be reserved for high society only. Peatyr Bretnach, owner of the Palm Beach Bathhouse was such a man. The concept of a locked door seemed not to apply to him. The dirty secrets he had on many of the attendants of this evening festivities were more than enough to get himself a nice spot on a table with wealthy Arkronian merchants. However he was not interested in what they had to offer. The wealth of the individual merchants paled in comparison of what the Arkronian crown could muster. The coffers of the crown have been the closed thing to a bottomless pit for many years. The Vulpin merchant casually mingled with the crowd until he had found himself in the area where the vassals were located. He could see the delegation of Vulpinia exchanging pleasantries with the representatives of the Dominion of Epha. As he looked around his eyes found what he was looking for, King William of Cor. Casually Peatyr Bretnach approached the monarch of the kingdom of Cor. [color=B854C7] “The throne of Arkron, twenty five steps into the air the throne towers above all. A seat most unfitting to someone who’s dying of disease, don’t you agree? Many say the stairs were made so that the monarch can look down on his subjects but I rather see it as a symbol. That the ascension to power is a long and difficult climb. It isn’t hard to tell who are going to try the climb but only one can make it to the top. Lets just hope that it will be someone with mild favorite fews for us non-Arkronians. But I fear the worst.[/color] [center][h1][color=008000]Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities [/color][/h1][/center] Rakon-Da was leaning on the balcony of his room close to the grand hall. His grey skin was pale and his eyes looked tired. It was clear that the crown prince wasn’t feeling well. As he stared over the courtyard he could hear the healers being busy inside preparing his medicine for tonight. However his mind wasn’t really busy with the healers. He was just staring at the tree that grows next to the balcony, reminiscing about how he used to climb the tree as a young child. The melancholy thoughts about days that were gone and would never come back were rudely interrupted by the voice of Drokon-Al, the elderly steward of the kingdom of Arkron. [color=008000] “My liege, it is almost time. The guests have arrived and are seated. Please take your medicine. It will give you some of your strength back for the coming hour. Just remember to return to your room after the second course for a new shot.” [/color] Drokon-Al simply nodded and walked back in. For a moment he stared at the table where all kinds of pots, leafs and other equipment was placed that was required to make his medicine. The potion the healers were brewing wouldn’t do anything to slow down the disease. No, it would simply give the crown prince a sudden rush of energy to help him through the festivities. As he drank down the fluid from the bottle he could feel his energy return to him, his legs felt more stable and some of the color on his skin returned. One of the healers quickly spoke. [color=008000]“We’ve placed the bottles on the table. One bottle for every two hours. What is here should be enough to get you through the dinner. We’ll excuse ourselves now. May the gods hold you in favor for eternity my liege.” [/color] With all the guests seated, the Arkronian government officials took their places followed by the six kardinals. Drokon-Al commanded the room to silence. When the last voice had died the old steward rose from his seat. [color=008000]“All rise for Rakon-Da, crown prince of Arkron.”[/color] With solid steps the crown prince walked towards his seat at the base of the stairs. He looked around and just wondered how many of his guests were aware of how gravely ill he was. Probably more than anyone would admit. But thanks to the medicine he looked better than he actually felt. Rather than sitting down the crown prince remained standing, standing as firmly as possible in front of the many people that he would share the banquet with tonight. As for this night, he had prepared a speech. [color=008000] “Alan Arkronis.” This is a day of something more than just a national consecration. And I am certain that on this day my fellow Mycorian expect that on my coronation as monarch of Arkron, supreme ruler of the realm, I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our realm impels. It is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing the conditions in the Kingdom of Arkron today. Our great nation will endure, as it has endured and will help the realm of Mycoria to endure. So first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is chaos itself. Nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror caused by disease and the ambition to take advantage of those who are struggling. Only in the darkest of times, the people turn to their darkests of thoughts. Once we turn away from the light, only chaos and violence remains. In such a spirit on my part and on yours we face common difficulties. They concern more than only the kingdom of Arkron. These difficulties concern the very foundation of the peace and stability that has blessed the realm for the past 50 year. And yet our distress comes from no failure of substance as we are stricken by a plague. A plague that some might see as a blessing or even a justification to turn away from the light that has been guiding the realm on the path of peace and stability. However be not mistaken, those who threaten the order, the foundation on which the realm as whole thrives will be met with vigor and endurance. However order, peace and stability does not just come from the threats of violence and retribution. It comes from extending your hands for mutual beneficial cooperation. So tonight we do not dine as overlords and vassals but as fellow Mycorians. [/color] The speech of the crown prince came as a shock to many within the Arkronian government. As it was both openly admitting that the kingdom faced great difficulties and that the times were changing. Rakon-Da seemed to recognize more than many hardliners that these changing times required the kingdom to redefine her relations in order to preserve the order that had brought prosperity to its people. It was clear that this historic speech was both extending their hands in friendship while still remaining committed to defending the order. At least for most Rakon-Da seemed to be less of a hardliner than his father. With the speech over, Rakon-Da sat down on his chair. For a moment the entirety of the grand hall remained silent, as the words spoken by the future king had to sink in. Then the first Arkronians rose hesitantly from their seats, clapped three times and spoke the traditional Arkronian greeting as a sign that they at least somewhat approved the message. The banquet could finally start.