"Seven months ago, the world changed," Nyrielle said, surprising the gathered guests as she remained standing rather than taking her seat at the high table. "Seven months ago, our enemies, the Lothians, cemented an alliance with a marriage, securing the support of a powerful human family on the eastern shores."
"The Lothian's new allies hold considerable influence and wealth in the Kingdom of Gaal," Nyrielle explained, slowly revealing a scheme that could spell doom for the people of the Vale. "But their influence in the Kingdom of Gaal pales in comparison to their ability to send their fleets of ships across the seas, returning with holds filled with soldiers from the humans' old kingdoms, all eager to fight in a new Holy War."
At the front table, Kaisen reached for Helga's hand and held it tightly, as if to reassure her that they were still safe behind the walls of the Vale of Mists even as he trembled at the idea of an invading army from across the sea.
