THE END OF THE SUMMIT

Master Grandir stood from his seat, gathering the attention of everyone in the hall. "Now that we have all voiced our concerns, it is time to finalize the terms of this expedition. Let us all agree to these five key points, so that we may prevent chaos and ensure the safety of our lands."

He began to read aloud the terms of the agreement:

1. Purpose of the Expedition: This mission is one of protection, not of profit. The goal is to prevent malice and any further dangers from the dungeon. Any knowledge gained from the expedition will be shared among all present nations and factions. The artifacts or treasures that can be safely extracted will serve as compensation to Aethyr, in recognition of his courage and service, and to provide him the necessary funds for his preparation and journey.

2. Ceasefire Agreement: During the course of the expedition, all nations will be notified, and no military engagements or acts of war will be allowed. The focus of all factions must remain on preventing the potential threat posed by the dungeon, ensuring peace and cooperation.

3. Safe Zone Cooperation: The responsibility of guarding the safe zone surrounding the dungeon falls on all nations and factions equally. Each faction must contribute forces and resources to ensure that no creatures or malignant forces escape into the wider world during the mountain fire cycle or any other potential surges from the dungeon.

4. Phalanx Payment and Support: The Phalanx, as the primary protective force for this endeavor, will be compensated equally by all nations involved. Their service is crucial to maintaining the safety of both the expedition and the surrounding regions. Any spoils or recovered items beyond Aethyr's share shall be divided among the nations as payment for the Phalanx's continued support.

5. Relics and Dangerous Artifacts: Any relics or items of immense power that are discovered must be turned over to a council consisting of representatives from all nations present. No single faction may claim ownership of such items. If deemed too dangerous, they will be destroyed or contained to prevent misuse. Should their use be justified, the council will decide how they are distributed or neutralized.

Master Grandir closed the agreement, looking around the room. "These terms must be followed by all, or risk unleashing a threat far greater than any of us can control. Do we have an accord?"

The rulers, one by one, nodded their assent. The fate of the expedition was now set, and the path ahead was clear.

AFTER THE SUMMIT

As the rulers and leaders began to leave the grand hall, the air slowly cooled, but for Eliziah, the former Queen, her heart was still racing. Gathering her courage, she walked toward her son, Aethyr, who was engrossed in a conversation with Master Sarphin about his preparations.

She hesitated, standing just a few feet away, gazing at him with a longing that threatened to undo her composure. The weight of all her years apart from him was heavy in her chest. She wanted to reach out, to embrace him, but instead, she held her ground, not letting her emotions betray her.

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Aethyr, sensing someone behind him, turned, bowing respectfully when he noticed her. "My lady," he greeted her formally, still unaware of the connection they shared. Sarphin, recognizing the moment, quickly excused himself, bowing to both and leaving them alone.

Eliziah stepped closer, her voice soft but filled with concern. "Aethyr, how are your wounds?" she asked, her eyes scanning him, looking for any sign of pain.

"They’re healing well," he said with a small grin. "I'm back to full strength. Besides, nothing makes a lady swoon like a cool scar, right?" he added with a playful tone.

Eliziah smiled warmly at his attempt to lighten the mood. "Yes, perhaps... but a scar only proves you’re alive to tell the tale. Just promise me one thing—stay safe. No girl will fall for a dead hero," she said, her voice taking on a more serious tone.

Aethyr nodded. "I’ll be careful, my lady."

Their tender moment was abruptly interrupted as Vargath, the imposing ruler of Stormhaven, approached with a dark smile. "Young lass," he sneered, "when this expedition is over, come to me. You’ll be welcome in my ranks—spoiled with gold, women... whatever your heart desires." His voice dripped with arrogance, the offer laced with sinister intent.

Before Aethyr could respond, Eliziah stepped forward, shielding him with her presence. Her eyes were cold and sharp as daggers as she stared Vargath down. "Keep your foul words to yourself, Vargath. This young man will bring hope and honor to this world—not violence and bloodshed like yours."

Vargath’s lip curled as he sized her up, his tone turning venomous. "Why so protective of the boy, Eliziah? He doesn’t need your shelter. Or... is there something more? You failed as a queen, unable to protect your own family, running like a coward when it all came crashing down." His gaze grew sharper as he added, "The loss of your bloodline, your offspring... it’s on your hands. A failure only you can bear."

Eliziah's heart tightened at his cruel words, but she remained calm on the surface, though the fire inside her urged her to retaliate. She stood her ground, not allowing herself to crumble in front of her son or this monster.

Suddenly, Merodach stepped up beside Vargath, his voice cold and alluring. "Aethyr, listen to me. I can offer you power beyond your wildest dreams. Enough to make this expedition nothing but child’s play. Join me, and everything you desire could be yours." His smile was cruel, his eyes glinting with malice.

Aethyr, ever respectful, bowed slightly but maintained his composure. "I appreciate the offer," he replied calmly, his expression unreadable.

Before Merodach could press further, Eliziah grabbed Aethyr’s arm firmly. "Don’t you dare consider such a thing, my boy—" she almost said my son but caught herself. "The masters here have taught you well. You don’t need him."

Aethyr smiled warmly at her, understanding what she meant. "Of course, my lady," he said, offering her reassurance.

Merodach’s eyes narrowed at Eliziah, filled with a burning hatred, but before the tension could escalate, Kodlak Whitemane entered the scene, his presence immediately calming the room. "Gentlemen, refreshments are available in the next chamber if you’d care to join us," he said, his voice carrying a subtle warning.

Vargath and Merodach exchanged glances with Kodlak, but neither dared push further under the elder’s watchful eye. With one last look at Aethyr and Eliziah, they left.

Eliziah took a deep breath, her heart still pounding. She had to leave to meet with other rulers, but now, with Kodlak by Aethyr's side, she could find a bit of peace, knowing that he was protected—for now.