Ichindar answered, “Peace is a new thing to Tsuranuanni, but I trust we will learn quickly. My High Council is divided over my actions. I hope the fruits of trade and the prosperity gained by learning from one another will unify attitudes.”
“That is my wish also,” said Lyam. “To mark the truce, I have ordered a gift prepared for you.” He signaled, and a soldier trotted out from the Kingdom lines, leading a beautiful black war-horse behind. A black saddle set with gold was upon its back, and from the saddle horn hung a broadsword, with a jeweled scabbard and hilt.
Ichindar regarded the horse with a little skepticism, but was awed by the workmanship of the sword. He hefted the great blade and said, “You honor me, Prince Lyam.”
Ichindar turned to one of his escorts, who ordered a chest carried forward. Two slaves set it before the Emperor. It was carved ngaggi wood, finished to a deep and beautiful shine. Scrollwork surrounded bas-relief carvings of Tsurani animals and plants. Each had been cleverly stained in lighter and darker tones, in nearly lifelike detail. In itself it was a fine gift, but when the lid was thrown back, a pile of the finest cut stones, all larger than a man’s thumb, glistened in the sun.
The Emperor said, “I would have difficulty justifying reparation to the High Council, and my position with them is not the best at present, but a gift to mark the occasion they cannot fault. I hope this will repair some of the destruction my nation has caused.”
Lyam bowed slightly. “You are generous and I thank you. Will you join me for refreshments?” The Emperor nodded, and Lyam gave a command for a pavilion to be erected. A dozen soldiers galloped forward and dismounted Several carried poles and bolts of material. In short order a large, open-sided pavilion was erected. Chairs and a table were set up under the covering. Other soldiers brought wine and food and placed them upon the table.
Pug pulled out a large cushioned chair for the Emperor, as Arutha did for his brother. The two rulers sat, and Ichindar said, “This is quite a bit more comfortable than my throne. I must have a cushion made.”
Wine was poured, and Lyam and the Emperor toasted each other. Then a toast to peace was offered. Everyone present drank it.
Ichindar turned to Pug. “Great One, it seems that this meeting will prove more salubrious to those around than our last.”
Pug bowed. “I trust so, Your Imperial Majesty I hope I am forgiven my disruption of the Imperial Games.”
The Emperor frowned. “Disruption? It was closer to destruction.”
Pug translated for the others while Ichindar smiled ruefully in appreciation. “This Great One has done many innovative things in my Empire. I fear we will not see the end of his handiwork long after his name is forgotten. Still, that is a thing of the past. Let us concern ourselves with the future.”
The honored guests from both camps stood in the pavilion as the two monarchs began their discussion of the best way to establish relationships between the two worlds.
Tomas watched the pavilion Calin and Dolgan waited on either side. Behind them more than two thousand elves and dwarves stood ready. They had entered the valley through the North Pass, moving by the Kingdom forces that were gathered. They had circled around the clearing, gathering in the woods to the west, where they were accorded a clear view of the proceeding. Tomas said to both his comrades, “I see little to indicate trickery.”
A second dwarf, Harthom of Stone Mountain, walked over to them. “Aye, elfling. All looks peaceful enough, in spite of the sorcerer’s warning.”
Abruptly there was a heat shimmer across the field, as if their vision swam and flickered, then Tomas and the others could see Tsurani soldiers drawing weapons.
Tomas turned to those behind and said, “Be ready!”
A kingdom soldier rode up to the pavilion. The Tsurani lords looked at him with distrust, for so far the only soldiers who neared the pavilion were those serving refreshments.
“Your Highness!” he shouted. “Something strange is occurring.”
“What?” said Lyam, disturbed at the man’s excitement.
“From our position we can see figures moving through the woods to the west.”
Lyam rose and saw figures near the edge of the trees. After a moment, while Pug translated the exchange for the Emperor, Lyam said, “That would be the dwarves and elves.” He turned to Ichindar. “I sent word to the Elf Queen and the dwarven Warleaders of the peace. They must be now approaching.”
The Emperor came over to Lyam and studied the woods “Why are they remaining in the trees? Why do they stay hidden?”
Lyam turned to the horseman. “Ride and bid those in the trees join us.”