As King Alexander and his entourage entered the Great Gar’Gallock’s market stall, its uniqueness struck them. Unlike the other stalls in the market, there were no goods or services for sale. Instead, there was a large, ornate table with strange symbols etched into its surface. A tall, thin figure with a long beard and piercing eyes stood behind the table, regarding them with a keen interest. He was sitting on pillows with a gleeful smile on his face. Surrounding him were various oddities and curiosities, including strange artifacts, rare books, and exotic spices. The man’s eyes twinkled with excitement as he greeted the king and his companions, welcoming them to his humble abode.
“Good tidings, esteemed lords,” the man greeted them with a broad smile. “I, the Great Gar’Gallock, stand before you, ready to offer my esteemed services as a grand advisor. For a modest sum of 10 gold coins, I shall give you the most exquisite counsel to be found across all realms.”
Alexander’s eyebrow arched inquisitively. “Pray tell, what manner of counsel doth thou possess, worthy of our consideration?”
Gar’Gallock chuckled and said, “Any counsel thou dost seek, my lord, shall be granted unto thee,” the spoke with an air of confidence. “Be it matters of warfare, diplomacy, or even affairs of the heart, my wisdom shall be at thy disposal.”
Bloud narrowed his eyes suspiciously. “How can we be assured of thy trustworthiness? Pray enlighten us on thy qualifications and expertise to dispense counsel.”
Gar’Gallock sat up straighter, puffing out his chest. “Fear not, for my wisdom spans wide and my experience runs deep. I have imparted my counsel to illustrious leaders of yore, and they have all deemed it invaluable.”
King Alexander approached him, placing a stack of 10 golden coins on his table.
The Great Gar-Gallock nodded, “Ah, my noble lords, pursuing peace, while admirable, is a notion that eludes our grasp, is it not?” pondered the Great Gar’Gallock with a sagely gaze. “Indeed, war is a less desirable path, for it brings forth destruction and suffering. However, in this tumultuous world, peace is but an ephemeral dream. Instead, let us strive for a harmonious balance, where conflict is met with wisdom and resolution. Seek not conquest for its own sake, but establish alliances, foster diplomacy, and wield your might judiciously. By embracing the art of negotiation and understanding, we can navigate the treacherous waters of power and bring forth a semblance of order amidst the chaos. Thus, let us forge a legacy not through the clamor of war, but through the elegance of enlightened governance.”
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“I humbly apologize for the interruption, esteemed sir. While your words hold wisdom, our pressing concern lies with Elmar,” Haemon said with deference. “We seek thy sagacious insight on how to vanquish him and his formidable army. Any information or strategy thou can provide would be of utmost value to our cause.”
The Great Gar-Gallock emitted a hearty chuckle, his eyes glinting mischievously. “Ermel, the Kingslayer, ah, he be encircled by a modest battalion of Elite Guards and Rebel Lords,” he imparted. “Yet, if thou art in search of additional forces to bolster thy retinue, I suggest thou venture into the depths of the Slums District. There, amidst the dregs of society, thou shalt find a band of scoundrels willing to pledge their allegiance for a meager sum.”
Pikener stepped forward, his eyes narrowed. “We require more than mere troops,” asserted the king’s general. “A comprehensive plan of attack is imperative to ensure our success. Pray enlighten us with your strategic insight and tactical acumen, that we may overcome Ermel and emerge victorious.”
The Great Gar-Gallock nods, stroking his chin. “The finest counsel I can offer, esteemed ruler, is that in pursuing victory, a plethora of tools lay at thy disposal,” expounded the Great Gar’Gallock, “Harness the diverse arsenal available to thee, employing strategies, alliances, and resources. Blend the might of your armies with the finesse of diplomacy, bolstered by the shrewdness of espionage. Use the power of innovation, as advancements in warfare and technology can tip the scales in your favor. With a masterful balance of these instruments, thou shalt become an unstoppable force, capable of overcoming any adversary that dares stand in your path.”
The troupe just looked at each other like this was a waste of time.
Gar’Gallock nodded understandingly as he slid the coins off the table and into a large pouch. “If you need advice again, I’ll be here.”
Alexander smiled politely and took his leave.