You are not welcome at Castle Medden but are allowed to pass

When you reach Vismark your convoy is stopped by the guard on the main road. You are handed a letter that reads:

Your Majesty,

You disrespect My house and my friendship by allying yourself with my enemy and going as far as to marry one. Therefore you or your half-breed offspring are no longer welcome at Castle Medden, whilst I am Duke there. You may find leniency during the reign of my descendants but for now, you will find no such hospitality. However, since this is still technically your land I will let you travel through it. However, any of the Dragon-kin, except your wife, who wishes to migrate after you have given them rights and citizenship must find other routes around Vismark or risk being arrested.
Yours
Duke Oliver Meddin of Vismark

This was most unwelcome news and you must plan to rectify this falling out in the future but for now, you press on.

On the trip, you have been discussing how to organise the challenges. Butrexx tells you that traditionally a new leader will go around challenging the leader of each clutch individually and this is what she has done. Some clutches will bend to her whim and let you place your champion as a leader with only a ceremonial battle. Others will desire a full battle where there is a chance they will keep their rule and gain a title for it. This sort of campaign will take months and even years but will give you an integrated knowledge all your new land.

Sarah mentioned that you could hold a great tournament and the top 26 will be given land relative to their level, the rest will be dead or defeated and dishonoured and **** to return home. This would provide a great reward for the best fighters ensuring the strongest rule your most volatile and new lands. It will also be an opportunity to raise money. Tournaments are great ways to raise moral as well as both nobles and peasants can witness, have fun and gamble on the outcome. You also will be gambling that your Men will dominate the top scores, however, you are fine with a few Dragon-kin winning as this builds stability and equality. This would be a good way to get to know your subjects if not the land that you will still have to tour but more briefly. You could also invite nobles (and expect peasants) from the rest of Itheria and even other countries to watch. It would also give you the opportunity to break up the land as you see fit instead of using what the Clutches already own.

Which of your lovers do you side with?

Do you go with the long and traditional way that will guarantee more human Dukes but may see you away from the Capital for over a year?

Or, the big showy tournament with less certain odds of human Dukes but also more potential rewards.

Authors note: Your choice and its results may also affect your love life so choose wisely. Speaking of love life, the next chapter should contain some much-needed sex, I promise.