All That Is Evil Is Not Dark/Chapter 31

"You?" the Drakel Enforcer stated in shock, his face torn between rage and horror.

Another of the contingent stepped forward even as the enforcer opened his mouth.

"You are lying," the enforcer began, but the caster shook his head. "Enough... I shall deal with this myself. Take your position."

The enforcer frowned but complied without comment.

"So Draynor son of Vanyen is dead?" the caster asked.

"The late king is dead," Tralin confirmed. "We have lately assumed the throne, now speak..."

The Drakel raised his hands placatingly.

"T'palo," he said, "your majesty, we do not seek hostility. We hold your land in an iron grasp; you know well you stand little chance of simply taking it back from us. We have come in peace to discuss with the throne of Deren an offer of great importance. We will pay the throne of Deren rent for the land we have seized for as long as we maintain it..."

"Rent upon what is stolen from its rightful possessors? How noble," Darin commented. Tralin raised his hand to silence the headstrong commander.

"And..." Tralin asked, knowing there was more to this.

"In exchange, we shall maintain ownership of the land unopposed for as long as we desire. We shall more then compensate the losses of those who suffer. We will allow free conduct through our environs, though we cannot allow unescorted travel within the region..."

"A very bold offer, but we are unimpressed. Our citizens are out of their homes. If the enemy returns, they are without recourse or defense."

The caster raised his hands again in the placating gesture.

"Your concerns were expected and in good faith we offer that refuge will be granted in K'eld Ner."

Tralin and Darin looked dumbfounded while Cerin, who did not understand the Drakel tongue, merely look shocked.

"You are offering us sanctuary in the Walled City of Ner?" Tralin asked.

"Indeed no," the caster responded. "What good faith would that show. We will allow you to openly take possession of property within the K'eld and have free travel to, from, and within it..."