PLAN B. We destroy the enemy(xavier/rowan)

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

Being in Altin somehow made her feel insecure, she wasnt in her territory, but everything was for a good reason. She was with Rowan, son of the king from Lydel, she was very close to the King, she was his personal guard, but since the poor King´s health became worse, well she had to move on. She discovered some important things while she was in Xaranth. There was this legion trying to make a move against Lydel, majorly against the King, which consumed the big heart and love from Scarlett to the King. She was determinated to destroy them, not for nothing she was the second in command of the lords of Valor.

She waited with a silver-green cloak that covered from head to toe, she was in her white horse. She knew Rowan would arrive anytime soon. She sent him a letter days before, so if he was interested he would be there soon enough. She wanted to send a letter to the King of Altin too, but she was afraid, she couldnt trust anyone but Rowan. Perhaps King Calixte had a bond with this Legion, she will define that as soon as she could talk to him. She was wearing her hair in a pony tail, about her clothes, she was wearing her sword, and her tiny armor, which was made of pure metal, it was actually pretty shiny.

it was hard and somehow uncomfortable to see a lady in that kind of "suit", people looked at her like if she were an alien or a dog with 3 legs, that pissed her off, she just tried to ignore them. The cloak was helping her to cover her armor so you could only see her face. Once Rowan arrive, she would contact him and with that, she would feel free to use her helmet. She just hoped he wouldnt take too long.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

He didn't have much time. He needed to get Haligan ready and saddled, and then get out of here. If his father discovered what he was up to then there would be no escape for the young Prince. Rowan needed to do this for his father. He needed to figure out a way to keep Lydel safe, as well as his father. He couldn't lose him any faster than he already was. Because of that, Rowan was sneaking out to the best of his ability. He had convinced the King to rest without making the man too suspicious of his actions. Rowan was always bothering the King to rest anyway, so he probably thought it was just routine. His son had just been surprised that he had actually relented. It worried Rowan. It meant that his father wasn't feeling well at all, and he didn't know what to think about that. Right now though, he needed to focus on the task at hand. He needed to keep Lydel in his thoughts, as well as his father.

Rowan was dressed simply. He had a pair of black breeches on, his black boots tied up to his knees. Over the boots he wore the armor guards that covered his shins, and he also wore armor over his thighs, that tied around his waist. It was his light armor, so he could travel fast and quick. He was an amazing rider and fighter, and was known for his skills on the battle field. He could fight, which was the point. But, he completed his dress with a black long sleeved shirt and tunic, and over that he wore the black armor etched with two silver rearing stallions. The heavier armor piece had silver etching mixed with the onyx, and it was a favorite of the Prince's. He was recognized because of it. He finished the ensemble with his black hooded cloak and was soon hurrying out the door, his two swords strapped to his back as they usually were. Daggers fell at his hips and on the outside of his knees. His bow was strung over a shoulder as well, and the quiver would be tied to Haligan's saddle. The two were ready in case anything bad was to happen.

He reached his already saddled horse quickly and mounted up. The black friesian stallion reared slightly in his excitement. Haligan was a war horse at heart, and it was obvious that he was born for this. Rowan would have taken his lighter mare Skylark, but she wasn't trained well enough for the task at hand. She would have been quicker, but Haligan was quick enough. Rowan steadied the massive stallion and pulled his hood up. The pair looked menacing because of their dark ebony colors, but Rowan wasn't thinking of that now. He urged Haligan forward, and the stallion jumped into a gallop. His strong legs carried them quickly over the grounds, never slowing and never faltering. They made good time to Altin, and he went straight to the keep. Rowan felt out of place because he was no longer in Lydel, but he would have to accept it. They had a mission at hand. Seeing the gray mare up ahead with her emerald clad rider, Rowan slowed Haligan and removed his hood so that Scarlett could and would recognize him.

"Are you ready?"

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

She looked for him, she was starting to get impatient, she wasnt very tolerant with people, but she needed to stay focus, he was the prince yes, of that there was no doubt, but she was getting nervous as the minutes rolled and sun was trying to hide in the ocean. She looked around and saw nothing, but then she heard that voice, it wasnt the voice who made her recognize him, it was his scent, his smell, the prince had something in his person that made him always smell good. And there was no doubt that Scarlett loved that scent, though she could only look at him as a brother, they were always in the same circle, since kids. But the difference was that he was a Prince and soon a king, while she was just the daughter of the King´s Knight. She turned her face to see him, she smiled, though that smile disappeared soon, because she realized they were in a critic moment, and it was not time for laugh and being happy, they were at war.

"More than ever" she stated with a sly smile as she grabbed her helmet and put it upon her head. Now she was ready, now she couldnt be identified as a woman, she didnt knew what the rules were in Altin, if they would admit a Female Knight, for what she knew and what she saw, she was the only one in the four kingdoms. She jumped out of her white horse and left the cloak there. She turned her face to see Rowan. "We need to talk to Calixte, thank god you received my letter, I was somewhat afraid of doing it in my own, I dont know if Calixte has a side, but we need to know if he knows something about this Legion, if he doesnt, his life could be in danger too." she whispered trough the helmet to Rowan as she kept walking to the doors of the castle.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan had tried his best to get here as fast as he could. It was hard escaping his father's ever watchful gaze. He would have to let her understand that if his father had seen him, or caught him, he would have never showed up. That was something that they couldn't risk. Not when this meeting was so important. This meeting could mean the difference between having a chance to win the war, or losing completely. Rowan would not disappoint and fail Lydel that easily. He didn't want to do that at all, but war was war. If one side was better and more prepared, there was no chance. And the other side was definitely more cold hearted. The young prince sighed softly to himself as the thoughts ran through his mind. He needed to sort this all through when they got back home. He would have Scarlett go to his office with him and they could go through everything together.

Reaching her side, he saw her familiar smile. Being in her presence made him feel calm and at ease. He knew that she wasn't like other women.She could protect herself and hold her own in most situations, and he was grateful for that. They had known one another since they were both young, and Rowan felt like she was more like a sister to him than anything else. One never knew what would happen in the future, but Rowan loved her like family for now. In his mind, it would always be that way, but fate sometimes had a different outlook on life. Hearing her words, Rowan looked towards her and met her own sly smile with his own. They were a pair together, that was for certain. Rowan trusted her with his life, and he knew she felt the same way. He wasn't the kind of Prince to stand back and let others do his work. He'd be there working next to everyone, especially Scarlett.

"Then let's get this done."

He said somberly and then dismounted Haligan. Tying the stallion out of harm's way, he made sure that his gear was all set and ready before stepping forward. He wouldn't go anywhere without the double set of swords on his back. He was deadly with the weapons, even though many thought the swords were for sure. They were hardly that, for Rowan wielded them like they were extensions of his arms. Needless to say, he could protect himself. Looking to Scarlett again, he walked with her as they approached the castle.

"We need to know where everyone stands on this Scarlett. It'll be the difference between winning and losing, and I cannot allow my father to see Lydel fall."

He said quietly, looking at the person he considered to be his greatest friend. This had to work. They needed this alliance to survive.

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

That was what she was waiting for, determination in his words, Lydel couldnt fall, Scarlett would make everything to restore the peace in Lydel, and if that meant to kill Barsh and his sons, then so it would be. As they were walking together to the castle, she noticed everyone looking at them, at least the guards could recognize them, even with the helmet, but it was Rowan´s armor that made the difference, it was unique, besides of light and shinny. They shouldnt be spotted at Altin, because that could make Barsh stand up and go for an attack to Lydel, with out the son in the Kingdom, the King was weak. They needed to hurry up.

"He wont see that, Lydel is everything for him, I dont know if this Legion is associated with Barsh, and thats what im afraid of" she said suddenly needing some air.
Once they were at the door, they were received, the rumors that Prince Rowan was in Altin ran fast, because the King of Altin was already there, at least Scarlett saw him at the end of the hall. Such a pretty interesting castle, since the portraits to the decoration, it wasnt as frozen as the Drasnia one.
She coughed, she didnt know if Rowan was going to say something, but as soon as she felt the King coming to them she knelt in a respect symbol. She had her helmet so it was probably that the king would think Scarlett as a guy, so she took away her helmet, also in symbol of respect. Her pretty pale face appeared, and she heard some whispers from the guards, even the maids. She tried no to pay attention to them, it was something usual now for her. She didnt know how to start, what if all this was a treat? She started to hyperventilate. she looked at Rowan, she was hoping that he could start the conversation, after all he was the prince, and she was just another knight.

[XAVIER CALIXTE]

King Xavier Calixte of Altin was in the audience chamber hearing suits and pleas from his subjects. He enjoyed this aspect of kingship, because he interacted not with the smooth, polished, obnoxious courtiers, but with the real people, the people he ruled. He sat upright in his throne, with a gleam of pride in his eyes. Although ordinarily a humble man, Xavier felt a certain pride in the fact that people were coming to him, him, Xavier Calixte, to beg him to hear their suit.

But suddenly whispers went through the hall, and a courtier hurried up to him and began whispering in his ear. His eyes focused on the back of the hall, where two figures were approaching from. One was instantly recognizable as Prince Rowan of Lydel. Xavier had met him once, several years ago, when he had visited Lydel as Prince, accompanying his since deceased father. The other was a knight clad completely in shimmering armor, with a helmet covering his face.

Xavier rose from his throne, his elegant cloak cascading about him, and walked towards the approaching duo. He was clad in a simple purple tunic and dark brown breeches. His boots, made of soft leather, made hardly a sound as he moved. The knight accompanying Prince Rowan knelt as he approached, and removed the helmet. Xavier stopped short in shock: the knight was a woman! Her pretty face was stunning, especially in contrast with her bright armor. Bestowing a slightly bemused but gracious smile upon her, Xavier turned his attention to the Prince, first.

With a happy smile, he greeted the Prince, saying, "It is a pleasure to see you, Prince Rowan. It has been nigh three years since we last met in Lydel, is that not so? What brings you here to Altin so suddenly?"
He extended his hand, to clasp the Prince's in a welcoming grasp.

Then, turning to the woman beside the Prince, he spoke again, with the same smile on his face: "Greetings to you as well, milady. I am astounded to see you in such warlike garb - I did not know that the women of Lydel were as valorous as the men! Still, it appears I have much to learn of Lydel."

Since Xavier was still learning the complex art of statecraft, he could not conceal his wonder at the arrival of the Prince. He had heard nothing from Lydel regarding a visit of state, but the seriousness on the faces of his visitors did not betoken good news.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan's eyes found Scarlett's immediately after he had spoken his words. No one would understand better than she would. Rowan was desperate. He did not want his father to suffer through the failure of his son. Rowan could not let Lydel fall because it would mean the ultimate failure on his part. His father would never forgive him, and Rowan would not blame him. His eyes stayed locked upon Scarlett's for a moment before he reached and took hold of her arm. Squeezing slightly, he knew she might not feel it through her armor and chain mail, and that was fine. But his touch would show her how much this meant to him. He never touched because that was not how he was brought up. Sighing, he shook his head after a moment and walked forward. He made sure he held his head high and set his face with an unreadable expression. No one could know that something was troubling him.

He knew that the news of his arrival would spread like wildfire through Altin. That meant that they had less time than normal. Biting his lower lip, he lowered his gaze for only a moment as they waited to be brought inside the castle. As they were finally allowed entry after he identified himself, he stepped in after Scarlett, letting her pass first. He might be royalty, but she was a woman, knight or not. She would always have precedence over him in his eyes, whether or not she agreed with that. He walked beside her now, showing that he believed them to be of equal status. He would never make her walk behind him. That was not his way. Scarlett had proved herself time and time again, and she was family in his book. She was important to Rowan, and he would be devastated if he ever lost her. Not wanting to think like that now, he stepped forward into the King's receiving chambers. Scarlett hit her knees in a bow immediately and removed her helmet. Rowan offered a bow out of respect, feeling Scarlett's uneasiness beside him.

"It's alright Scar."

It was a whispered tone, and he used the nickname he saved for her. He touched her shoulder as he spoke, giving her support while she hyperventilated. He knew she was nervous, but he was impressed with her behavior nonetheless. She was a strong young woman, and Rowan cared deeply for her. He wanted her to know that he was here for her, and he wasn't going to abandon her in this situation. Lydel was just as important to the both of them. The fact that she had set this up gave proof to her loyalty and her bravery. Rowan would be forever grateful. Taking a deep breath, he exhaled softly and then looked to the King as he came forward. He met the man's hand shake with strength behind his own, listening quietly to the man's words. He nodded softly with a forced smile. He just didn't have the want to even smile any longer.

"Tis so, King Xavier. The pleasure's mine; how are you? As for what brings us here, it is that of a private matter. May we discuss it where it will not be overheard, Milord?"

He questioned seriously and then waited for his response. It was then that both of their attentions turned towards Scarlett. It was Rowan's duty in this moment to introduce Scarlett. He spoke clearly, giving only the basic introduction so that Scarlett could also introduce herself. But the pride came through in his face as he spoke up.

"This is Lady Knight Craven. She's the protector of my father, and myself. We trust her with our lives, Milord."

He finished honestly and then stepped back so that Scarlett could speak. He knew that she could now rise, and waited for something else to occur. He wanted to get through this conversation rather quickly so he could return to Lydel. His father was surrounded and protected by knights, but that didn't matter. Rowan wouldn't be alright until he was with his father. he wouldn't stop being restless until he saw his father. He needed to hurry home.

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

As she knelt Rowan whispered something to her, she just smiled, it wasnt fair, Rowan and his Dad, the King Stanforth were good people, with a noble heart, and what was happening to them wasnt fair, this things should only happen to bastards like Barsh and his clone. She growled at the simple thought. The she glanced discretely to Rowan, did he knew how she was feeling? It seemed so. Rowan sometimes was so gentle, like the way he let her pass first, being him the one should pass first. He was the royalty not her. He liked to call her Scar, and sometimes she felt good with it, and sometimes they were so close, that she didnt knew how to react. She felt something for him, as a brother or at least thats what she believed, maybe her mind was playing sick and wicked games in her head. What ever was the thing, she was a Knight and he was a Prince, a really charming Prince, but well, back to business.

She looked at the king, he looked so... young. But kind and somewhat graceful. She hoped he werent using a mask. He would need to make some points before she could almost trust him, this was a very delicate subject. "It is a pleasure to see you, Prince Rowan. It has been nigh three years since we last met in Lydel, is that not so? What brings you here to Altin so suddenly?"
"Tis so, King Xavier. The pleasure's mine; how are you? As for what brings us here, it is that of a private matter. May we discuss it where it will not be overheard, Milord?" she nodded while she was still on knee´s. She sighed and then heard the King talking to her, she raised her eyes, deep blue eyes, into his, her sight was respectful and over all suspicious. "Greetings to you as well, milady. I am astounded to see you in such warlike garb - I did not know that the women of Lydel were as valorous as the men! Still, it appears I have much to learn of Lydel."
"This is Lady Knight Craven. She's the protector of my father, and myself. We trust her with our lives, Milord."
she stood up and smiled, no one could know if it was a smile of happiness or a fake smile, but there it was, she had to pretend, because honestly she didnt liked to smile or laugh while someone she loved was being attacked, or was suffering or in this case, in severe danger. For what the King said, they didnt had woman in high positions, she felt unique once again, like a rare bug. But then the prince Rowan spoke as a gentleman of her. She looked at him with the corner of her eye and a sincere smile crossed her red lips. She looked at the Prince and nodded in a thankful symbol. Then her eyes set on the King of Altin. Her voice was from hurry, but still polite and respectful. "Lydel is a great Kingdom that unfortunately has been treaten with this war." she looked at Rowan, and then to the King "King we are here to talk about some private information, we need to discuss it as soon as possible, because your life as the life of our King might be in several danger." she looked a little desperate and in a rush. The Time was running out of their hands.

[XAVIER CALIXTE]

"Tis so, King Xavier. The pleasure's mine; how are you? As for what brings us here, it is that of a private matter. May we discuss it where it will not be overheard, Milord?"

Prince Rowan returned the handshake with firmness, and his greeting was polite enough, but it was evident that he was in a hurry. Xavier saw this clearly, and skipped some of the formalities that usually accompanied moments such as this.

"This is Lady Knight Craven. She's the protector of my father, and myself. We trust her with our lives, Milord."
Xavier smiled at the lady knight again: "Then I shall as well."

The lady spoke, a somewhat hurried, but respectful speech - she warned of danger to Xavier's own person, and to the kingdom itself.

Xavier's face took on a worried look, and he hurriedly ushered his two guests into a side room. He shut the door, and showed them to two seats. He stood. As he waited for them to seat themselves, he began pacing back and forth across the front of the room.

Suddenly he stopped, and turning to the two, he asked: "What news has caused you to come to Altin without warning? It must be terrible."

He suddenly had a thought, and he turned to Prince Rowan, asking in a worried tone: "Your royal father is well, yes?"
He hoped that King Stanforth was still alive, for the king of Lydel was wise and gentle as few others. Xavier's eyes grew thoughtful, as he waited for an answer.
it was in times like these that he missed his dear father, only three months dead.

[SILISIA CROFTON]

Mist rose up from the breath of the hunting party. The Queen of Drasnia lead the party into the courtyard, her young stallion still prancing with exhilaration. Her occasional hunting trips were to create a sense of comradery within the court even though the act of hunting for sport was considered barbaric by the queen. In dark times, it was always good to keep true to close advisors. What met her in the courtyard was her war stallion saddled in his armour and ready with her oldest councillor clutching a letter gravely in his hand. A stable hand took the reins of the coloured young stallion upon which the queen was mounted. Sighing, she slipped from the saddle as graciously as she could and removed her leather riding gloves.
“Your majesty,” the old man said respectfully giving a small bow. “News from Altin – You have been cordially to a state visit. I do believe they are to broach the subject of the war.”
A grim line touched his face, and Sil frowned in turn.
“Gather my most trusted advisors. I will go prepare myself,” she said curtly. She gently took the letter from the old man’s outstretched hand and moved out of the courtyard.

Getting ready was a brief process, as most of her things had been set out for her. Her last action was to buckle her late husband’s sword to her waist. She threw the hood of her cape over her head as she moved deliberately through the main entrance, to the awaiting party. The large chestnut stallion that awaited her pawned the ground and the horses moved restlessly under the tense guard. The old councillor looked out upon the group gravely, holding his staff tightly in his withered hands. Silisia glanced at him as the courtyard bowed respectfully.
“Do what is best for you people,” he said solemnly. She swung up lightly into the stallion’s saddle and took her place in the middle of the guard. Light glanced off the silver of the stallion’s armour as he tossed his head. Hooves pounded angrily against the stone floor of the city. The guard galloped out into the white frozen landscape of Drasnia. The sky shone grey above their heads and in the distance the silent threat of more snow threatened the freezing land.

While the distance was long, the Drasnian Company moved quickly, stopping only at night to rest the horses. Altin glimmered on the horizon, and their journey from the frozen land was almost complete. Upon the next day the clatter of hooves entered the city of Drummond. While it was still winter, the temperature had risen considerably from the below freezing of Drasnia to what its natives considered a reasonable temperature. Dropping her hood, she regarded the castle before her with a stern frown. Some stable hands ran out to receive their horses but the king of Altin was nowhere to be seen. The sentries were to alert him of her presence a good half an hour ago. Sighing in dissatisfaction she slid gracefully from her war stallion who breathed a sigh of great relief. Rare affection lit up her eyes as she crooned softly to the large stallion who placed his head in her arms. With the sound of feet against stone the stallion looked around warily before nibbling affectionately on his owner’s cloak. As the stable hand moved to collect him, the queen gave him a sharp look.
“Look after him well,” she said curtly, handing her reins to the boy. The large chestnut gave the boy a calculatedly look before attempting to nip his hand.

Moving swiftly with her closest guards she made her way through up to the palace, bristling with irritation. A few servants hurriedly showed her to where the king was residing. Once inside, the queen turned her icy eyes upon the contents of the room. The soft grey of her cloak, and armour whispered of the ice lands that lay in the farthest reaches of the world. After the long travel her appearance softened the glittering distance in her eyes. While still carrying the air of aloofness, soft curls that had escaped from her bun framed her face created a sense of homeliness. Her guards flanked her protectively. With a casual wave she commanded them to stand at the side of the hall.
“The courtesy of your halls has somewhat lessened of late,” she said icily, “King of Altin.”
She held her summons out with an air of disappointment. Her eyes danced over the other two occupants of the room. One she recognised to be the prince of Lydel. It did not surprise her to see the King’s son there as from what she was aware, the King was still gravely ill. She had heard rumours of the lady knight that accompanied their family although she preferred to not concern herself with such news; or any news. The days for rationality had long since passed and now her only duty was to protect her kingdom.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan turned to glance at Scarlett as she spoke in respect to the King of Altin. He nodded his head after she finished, almost as if to ensure that what she spoke was true. He doubted that the King would think she was lying, but it didn't matter now. Rowan just wanted to be sure that Xavier understood how grave this problem truly was. He also wanted this meeting to be thorough, but short and to the point. He could not leave his father in the kingdom alone for too long. If anyone found out that information, it could mean an easy attack on Lydel, and Rowan would never forgive himself. It would mean he had abandoned not only his father, but his people and his kingdom as well. Taking a deep breath, the young prince exhaled softly, looking at the young King of Altin. He didn't want to think about being thrown in the young man's position. Rowan knew the military like the back of his hand, but when it came to ruling, he wasn't sure he was experienced enough.

Standing quietly for a moment, he tried to relax. This needed to be done. He couldn't be rushing the King of Altin into something like this. They needed to make sure that they explained everything and anything, and he couldn't come across as rude. Rowan wouldn't want to have a bad standing with this King. It would be nice to have a friend like him, and even better to have an ally in this time of need. Lydel was not strong enough to face Xaranth alone. His father was dying, and the people could only feel their grief over the illness of their King. War would shatter them if they were alone in that struggle. Rowan soon let those thoughts be however, and looked over as the King became worried and thoughtful. He ushered them to the side room, and Rowan was grateful when the door shut.

He looked to the young King, wishing that it wasn't a mistake to trust him. It couldn't be. They were at war. Rowan would trust him. He did trust him. He looked across at Scarlett for a moment, and then spoke up, wanting to see how much King Xavier knew first before they started explaining. He didn't want to waste any time.

"Do you know of the Tainted Legion and their plans?"

He spoke up, watching Xavier's face. The Tainted Legion was probably heard of here first, for they were directly involved with Xaranth. But Rowan needed to be sure. As the man questioned about his father, Rowan's face fell for a moment. His bond with his father was extremely strong. He had only had him while growing up for the past years, and the two had become extremely close. Rowan not only viewed him as his father, but also as his greatest friend. It was obvious to anyone to see how much the two cared for one another.

"He is not as well as I wish him to be, King Xavier. But his health is only part of the reason as to why we are here. I thank you for your concern, however. It is appreciated."

He finished with a polite nod of his head. He knew that out of all people, Xavier would understand what he was going through the most. The poor King had just lost his father three months before, and he knew how hard it must be for him. He studied the strong King for a moment, feeling as if he was inspired by the young man's ability to cope. He respected him for that, and he didn't think many people would understand where that respect came from. They wouldn't until they went through something like the two had experienced, and were experiencing. Rowan stood quietly for a moment, until his attention was turned to the door as the Queen of Drasnia came in. He felt like the mood and the temperature had dropped with her icy behavior. Hearing her sharp words to the King, Rowan kept his mouth shut, but his respect dropped. She acted as if she owned the world. He said nothing and did nothing, but stood beside Scarlett, not sure if he could or would finish the conversation at hand. He hardly knew this Queen, and he didn't know if he could trust her.

[XAVIER CALIXTE]

"Do you know of the Tainted Legion and their plans?"

Xavier's face darkened. Of course he did. The Legion was closely allied to Xaranth, and his spies had sent back many reports about the brutality and fierceness of the Legion. His eyes flashed slightly - they were responsible for the slaughter of the citizens of Paldershire. Men, women, and children. There were no survivors.

He nodded slightly to answer the question, saying: "Everyone knows of them. They took the city of Paldershire, and slaughtered all inhabitants. My troops fled before them. They have slain my subjects in cold blood without a declaration of war." His tone was harsh, angry, but sad. "Yes, I have heard of them. What of it?"

Yes, his politeness was wearing thin - he felt himself completely responsible for the loss of Paldershire. It burned him that his subjects had been cruelly slain while he sat warm and safe in his castle, arguing with his military advisors. Nothing is being done, while my people die.

But Prince Rowan replied to his query about King Stanforth, and Xavier immediately regained his composure, nodding sadly in sympathy. He knew the feeling of helplessness as loved ones slowly lost the battle with death.

Suddenly there was a cacophony of noises, and the door opened to reveal Queen Silisia of Drasnia. Xavier stared in surprise for a half-second, then recovered himself. He himself had invited the Queen to Altin for a visit, in order to discuss the war. How fortuitous that she had arrived at this moment. Now a real war council could take place - Rowan had news that it would be good for the Queen to hear as well, no doubt.

Her harsh greeting was aloof, but Xavier tried not to be thrown off by it - she had been traveling for long, no doubt, and was clearly not glad to have been summoned. But he bowed politely, and said apologetically, "I must apologize for the lack of a proper welcome, but I was detained in discussion with Prince Rowan here." He gestured to the Prince, then continued. "In truth, our discussion will benefit from your presence, Milady, for we are discussing Xaranth and the Tainted Legion, both of which affect Drasnia too. Please take a seat, your Majesty."

He nodded to Prince Rowan, motioning him to continue with his news.

Is there anything new in what he will say here?