Revelations

Despite his reassurances to Evie, Kael is worried as he enters the palace. Never before had he spoken to Lord Greyheart in such a manner, and he doesn’t know what to expect. For that matter, Kael isn’t even sure what this call is for. It could be something completely unrelated. After all, if he were to face a punishment for his words, it’s unlikely such things would be handled in the throne room.

Kael is further confused when he steps into the room, only to find that all the other champions are already there, seemingly just as confused as he is. Lord Greyheart is there as well, sitting on his throne with his chin resting in his palm as he looks into the middle distance, clearly deep in thought. Even Bernal, stood beside the throne, looks a bit dazed and bewildered, unusual for the long-serving champion.

When Kael joins the group, he’s greeted with silent nods, very different from the usual joviality that the champions share. Though it’s obvious that none of them know yet what’s happening, the attitude of Lord Greyheart shows that this is hardly a celebratory meeting.

They wait patiently while Lord Greyheart deals with his thoughts, though Orin in particular is obviously restless. It’s not long after Kael arrives, however, that Lord Greyheart stirs from his reverie, straightening up in his throne. He looks at the gathered champions and nods, though his face remains emotionless.

“I thank you all for your prompt arrival, and I apologize for interrupting your mornings, but some things have come to light that I must share with you.”

His gaze wanders over the group once again, and Kael is surprised to see a hint of sadness in his eyes as he continues. “Ever since our victory…YOUR victory over Karlia, Foresthearth has found itself lauded among our other neighbors. What began as offers of alliance have suddenly changed tone into offers of allegiance.”

He leans back in his throne. “I can’t say for certain what has prompted the sudden shift, though I suspect that Karlia has not given up on their thoughts of conquest. Whatever the reason, I have found myself considering what amounts to a rise from a simple city state to a full fledged kingdom.”

Orin, ever impatient with long orations, interrupts. “This seems like wonderful news, my lord!”

Ria shakes her head. “There’s more to this, or you would be making this announcement to the people, not to us.”

Lord Greyheart smiles for the first time. “Perceptive as always, Ria. Yes, there is more to this. To start with, however, I see no downside to accepting the offers of fealty. Those seeking leadership are much like us, and all will be enhanced by the merger.”

Koa nods. “Your leadership will be for the good of all, lord.”

Lord Greyheart sighs, looking at Kael for a moment, a slightly pained expression on his face. “I hope so, though there are those that suffer under my rule even now. Changes may need to be made. But that is for the future. And again, not the reason I’ve gathered you here.”

He folds his hands in his lap, his serious, emotionless mien returning. “There’s not a pleasant way to put this, so I’m just going to say it.”

Lord Greyheart hesitates for a moment before speaking again.

“I’m dying.”

A stunned silence fills the throne room. Even Bernal has a shocked expression, clearly caught unawares. Before anyone can respond, Lord Greyheart continues.

“Not today, not this week, likely not even this month, but my time is limited. I only found out myself a short time ago, and I kept it a secret, until now.”

Kael steps forward. “My lord…what? How? What’s happening?”

Lord Greyheart sighs, running his fingers through his hair. “It’s some kind of curse, or a magical malady. I cannot say for certain, but I suspect Karlian hands at work there.”

Bernal finally speaks, his voice husky with emotion. “There has to be something we can do!”

Lord Greyheart shakes his head. “I’ve conferred with medics and mages. Whatever it is, it is firmly entrenched within me. Any attempt to remove it at this point would simply kill me faster.”

He lifts a hand to forestall further discussion. “I do not wish to discuss this further. I have much to do in the time I have left. I will not allow this to destroy what has only just begun. If this new nation fails, I suspect that Karlia will rise in the chaos that follows, and I cannot allow that.”

Lord Greyheart takes a deep breath. “This afternoon, I will address the people. I want all of you there with me. In addition, I ask that you bring your companions. There is much to say, and much to do, and some of it will affect them as well.”

The champions glance at each other, more confused than ever, but Lord Greyheart continues. “It will all make sense, I promise. Foresthearth will grow to become a kingdom, and I need my champions to support me. Do I have your support?”

Despite everything, the group snaps to attention at the question, speaking in unison without hesitation. “Yes, my lord.”

Lord Greyheart smiles, leaning back once again. “I thank you, my champions. Without you, I would not be where I am now. Go then, prepare yourselves and your companions. I ask that you return with them in four hours time.”

He chuckles. “And dress well. Everyone will be watching.”

With that, they are dismissed. There are so many questions, but Lord Greyheart made it clear that there is no answers forthcoming just yet. The champions leave the throne room, save for Bernal, and go their separate ways, each pondering what the future will bring.