>>6287556
You finally came upon a great archway, which led into a central hall, where at present the elves were holding a council of war, though apparently the meeting was about to be adjourned.
''Namárië'' Someone said. It was a word that was reverberated back a few times, probably a way of saying farewell.
Haldanáro had a light shade of hair, unlike Artuileno, and seemed ever a tad bit younger. Elves don't age, but it was something in his disposition, like he was more daring, warlike, and gregarious. While the other elves dispersed, he remained alone, awaiting you. He had already seen fit to wear his armour to this meeting, as had you, actually. Still, he seemed friendly enough, literally receiving you with open arms.
He shook your hand with boyish enthusiasm. And then spoke. ''It's good of you to come here, kinfriend; we had heard of the grave tidings Artuileno had sent us. But I do have an issue with it.''
He dimmed his smile. ''Had Artuileno not attempted to intervene, we wouldn't have to deal with this.'' He grimly noted.
''I am not Artuileno.'' You retorted.
''No, but you are the instigator of this conflict, though I suppose blaming you for Karl's course of action would be misplaced.''
''The truth of the matter is that it doesn't matter anymore; what does matter is what you will do in the coming years. The military situation is as follows: we control the north and forests, the Svengalians have been driven to their southern strongholds, and the open plains are the frontline. I have been trying to unite the other elflords, but they're reluctant to go on the offensive.''
''Let us join forces then; I can bring the numbers you lack to bear, and thus outmanoeuvre them.'' You said.
"You say that, but I have other concerns as well, prime amongst them being trading our previous liege lord for a new one, you. That would all be well and good, but the fact that Karl tried to expel us makes it so that in the interest of my people, I must demand guarantees.'' The prince told you.
"What kind of guarantees?"
''Autonomy, the right to remain on our hereditary lands, the inviolability of our rights, and protection against any and all future attempts at deportation or other forms of unjust persecution.''
You opened your mouth to speak.
>You ask too much.
>Out of the question, I will go after them myself.
>You drive a hard but fair bargain; I accept.
>Write-in.
