As they came in sight of Teorainn, Breogan was pleased to see Ardgal and the others already waiting. The efficiency and practicality of Ardgal was always admirable.
The king and his gathering made for a far different picture to the Druaidíi. Brandubh and his people had scouted the Milesians as they had left Carthaga, and as expected they were not travelling lightly. Though Breogan would have preferred only the necessary personnel for the trip he had felt compelled to travel with his own retinue in tow. As they came to the outer perimeter the King raised his hand in signal to those not chosen for the negotiations to pull up and make camp. The six chosen to join him continued along. To his side was his chief advisor, directly behind them came the Earls, Harfrigh rode alongside Diarmuid O Meagher in heated discussion, behind them came Cillian Deirfuar and finally came Saoirse NíConnaill. She rode alone a little aside from the others and seemed oblivious to all of them.
As they left the main group Aachfheall made his way along the path to join with them while his two fellow Giants sat themselves a little ways down from their camp.
It had caused quite a stir when they had first come upon the Giants travelling on the Eastern Road. Notoriously inconspicuous after the conclusion of the Empire War they had retreated to their rocky base and had been rarely sighted by anyone since. Those veterans still kept in the Royal Guard had been familiar enough with the Giants at one point and were not overly fazed by their appearance. For most though the Giants had almost moved into the realm of legend, a ghost of the past that was a relic of bygone days. It had taken some time before they and the horses had regained some level of composure. He did not blame them. Breogan had seemed many fearsome sights in his life but none compared to a rampaging Giant smashing its way through a battlefield. It is a good thing that they are here, and even better that they are here on our side. Let the Milesians be reminded just what they will face.
After exchanging a quick, taut greeting those selected made their way to what remained of the Hall, there was no need for talk now, it could all wait till after. Breogan moved close to the centre of the room up alongside Ardgal. Brandubh and the Earls took up position just behind them. Michaél stood a little to the left where Aachfheall stooped beside him and the young Druaid Dagda made his on what was once a pillar now functioning perfectly as a seat for him to rest on. He appeared casual as if he was here for some banal stage performance rather than a potentially war causing discussion. To his left a little way stood Earl Ní Connaill.
No one spoke. They are saving their voices for when the real talk begins. Fortunately they didn’t have to wait long, not long after they had settled themselves the distinctive high pitched sound of the Milesians horns could be heard from the Eastern Wall. As the approaching group came into focus it was clear that these were no mere scouts. Dressed in full ornate battle gear the men which held the keys to the Milesian power in Aileann made their way leisurely towards them.
At their side stood the Brutari, the elite heavy unit of Milesia’s soldiers. That they were here showed the Milesians were serious, only twenty of their number resided in Aileann, the rest resided throughout the continent wherever they were needed most. The Brutari were a notorious arm of the Milesian army, one created by the illusive and ill famed Academy of Maegists on the isle of Shroud. Even Brandubh had been hard pressed to uncover any intel on their workings but what was clear was that by some perverse means the Milesian Maegists had long ago begun breeding Brutari in their ungodly experiments. A barbaric unnatural union of man and beast which produced the most feared of Milesia’s warriors. The process was an ongoing one with many reported variants of the Maegists creations but the ones brought to Aileann were in the main a branch of the Minotaur Brutari, though some Bearai beasts were also present. Each one present had the head and lower body of a powerful bull or bear with a swelled muscly torso and arms like that of a human, Breogan had felt first hand their ferocity in Battle and had seen himself what few of their numbers could do, he feared to think what an army of them could achieve. None of them made eye contact but each one maintained a look of icy disdain, as if they would sooner be wielding their spear, axes and mauls in anger than keeping them taut and guarded by their side.
Aside from them they had brought what looked like over 50 soldiers with them. As the bulk of their group halted and took up position the ten chosen by the Milesians became discernible. Of their contingent there could be no mistaking the hierarchy of positions, out in front came the three Generals charged with overseeing all Milesian activity in Aileann, Maximo, Hortensia and Tifar who were closely followed by 7 of their Brutari soldiers. Dismounting from their steeds they approached, Tifar strode confidently out in front almost weighed down by the sheer volume of gold and jewels adorned across his body.
"My Dear friends, it is customary for both sides to enter the agreed upon meeting place simultaneously, could it be that you have forgotten? I thought you Natives were most passionate when it came to such matters."
He smiled broadly as he made his way into the hall's ruins.
Before any of the others could respond it was young Dagda who gave back an equally wide smile and stepped forward. “We are indeed most passionate about such matters my dearest friend, however it is for our traditions, our customs that we reserve our passion. The customs of the continent hold little weight here, or could it be that you have forgotten that this is not Milesia?”
The smile never left Tifar’s face but his eyes narrowed in on Dagda, “Ah yes my mistake young Druaidíi, Dagda isn’t it? I am most glad to meet you in person.”
He paused and his eyes narrowed further, “I have heard much about you.”
Ardgal spoke before Dagda could get his reply. “And we you General, you’ve won many a famous victory in your previous vocations.”
Tifar gave a slight bow, “Oh but you are too kind Ardgal, I know you too have won many a battle for your...kind.”
Ardgal returned the bow “I and my kind have seen many a battle yes. Though usually we see it from the front.”
Maximo moved quickly to intervene, stepping forward aside Tifar, “It is our honour to be here, and we are glad that you agreed to meet with us to explain away any issues you may have. What happened at Dúnrath was a terrible mishap that we feel most embarrassed by. And yet our biggest regret is that we could not punish ourselves those that attempted such despicable actions. We can only apologize and hope that this does not negatively impact the relationship both sides have worked so hard to forge these past sixteen years.”
Breogan followed Maximo’s gaze as made a point of looking directly to first Ardgal and then to Aachfheall before he continued,
“I am also particularly glad that both you Ardgal for Na Druaidíi and you Aachfheall for the Giants have also agreed to meet, it is our hope that we see more of you in these coming times. Though we are brought here by displeasing events, it does not mean that we cannot mark this a new chapter in the book of Milesia and Aileann.”
In that order no doubt. Brandubh moved forward from behind him.
“Indeed for us too Generals, we are happy to have this opportunity to speak with you Milesians. And if I may presume to speak in a frank and open fashion…” he paused and looked inquiringly to the Milesians.
“But of course, as friends should speak.” This time it was Hortensia who spoke, they seemed to share the burden to the exact amount these Milesians.
Brandubh nodded appreciatively, “Then I must admit I am both confused and intrigued. Is not the Milesian army the envy of the world? Loyal to a fault, completely obedient and supremely trained?”
Hortensia laughed tamely, “You flatter us Brandubh.”
Brandubh did not laugh, “Well yes, perhaps I do. For I find it most strange that a whole patrol of your men Generals could have armed themselves, rode over the border to Dúnrath and launched an assasinaton attempt on the leader of Na Druaidíi, all without any of your commanders realising.”
General Maximo raised his hands in mediation. “Believe us, none were more angry nor ashamed than we that our Men were found to have been involved, it is a point of great embarrassment for us, of that I can assure you.”
Breogan shook his head at the words, “And tell me Generals, this insubordination, this supposed act of aggression, can you guarantee it will not happen again, how can we in good faith now trust you and your ability to control your men, when it seems they so easily and brazenly went against your orders.”
The Generals seemed taken aback by the abruptness but to their credit recovered themselves quickly, Hortensia was the first to gather himself. “King Breogan we have given you our Word, the Word of Milesia itself, mightiest of all Empires, home of civilisation itself, the pinnacle of human endeavour. Do you truly mean to insult us so by doubting us?”
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
General Tifar made a point to clear his throat so all focus fell upon him.
“Let us be clear, Allies, Milesia does not so readily and easily agree to such situations as the one at present on this here Isle, yet be aware that the goodwill and friendship we represent and extend is not an unlimited fountain, there will at some point be a drought and changes will have to occur.”
Ardgal laughed gently. “Finally, now we are getting somewhere, these changes you mention General, what such changes do you speak of then?”
Tifar gave a cursory glance to his companions and seeing no resistance continued. “We are of course committed to our continued alliance and joint prospering, that is not in question. However, if certain events occurred or transpired, if that were to happen and we were left with no other favourable options we would of course have to annex your lands until such a time as you would become...become more accommodating to our principles and ideals.”
For a moment no one spoke the thinly veiled threat left to hang in the air.
Ardgal was the first to break the silence, “And tell me General, this potential annexation you speak of, does it believe that we the Druaidíi, Giants and Partholóns would merely allow it to happen?”
General Tifar snorted derisively. “Your acceptance or denial would matter little. You could resist for a time for sure, would it be easy for us no, but we all know that it ends in only one way, in the only way it always ends, with Milesia. What will be left of you, is up to you. Whatever you do may delay the inevitable, but it is inevitable, of that there is no doubt.”
A barely perceivable look passed between Maximo and Hortensia, Tifar has gone too far, he reveals their true feelings.
Breogan shifted to the side as Aachfheall stood up from the back exposing his full size and presence, his booming voice reverberated around the room “You speak of inevitability Little General, the only thing inevitable is Death, if Milesia brings War to our Lands then we will destroy everything you know and love leaving you with nought but smoking ruins of despair for to rule over here in Aileann.”
The Generals took a slight cautionary step back at his unexpected words. They did not believe he spoke the common tongue. Their caution was understandable and probably not a bad idea given that Aachfheall could crush their heads within a single one of his vast fists.
Hortensia was the first to regain his composure, “Look at us squabbling over what ifs and could be’s. All hypotheticals that will not need occur. There is no reason for us to come to war, to violence. Aileann need not see itself destroyed and ravaged. Has not our mutual agreements and cooperation increased your trade and your income tenfold?”
Earl Saoirse made no move but the other two, O’Neill and O’Hara nodded silently at his words Breogan could not help but notice.
“And as that trade and income has increased so too has your presence and influence, so much so that I begin to question the validity and value of our friendship. For every coin we make Milesia makes two.”
Maximo smiled “Come now king Breogan do not feign offense, you do not truly expect us not to take compensation for our investment, our time, our resources and our trade routes do you? Even those Gods you worship are surely not so giving?”
“Compensation is one thing, treating Aileann as of your vassals quite another. You do not own these lands.”
Ardgal continued on the King’s thoughts, “Of late you Milesians have presumed much and taken more than the conditions clearly set out in the Treaty of 206. It seems to be that you want to push the boundaries until it is about to break, to test our resolve and power, our alliances and our people. Tell me Generals, to those above you, to those truly in power, do they believe Aileann would meekly submit to its rule, another jewel to add to its already laden crown. Do they believe they can do so without pain, without sacrifice? If so then you should advise them to the truth. Any gain you make will be hard fought, and land you win will be spoiled, any city you take will be ruined. For no true Aileanner would forego their traditions, their culture, their beliefs for an empire such as yours.”
Tifar face twisted in anger, “So what are you proposing? Do you mean to say that you want war, if you want to die and suffer as proud People of Aileann then so be it, let it be on your heads.”
Hortensia exhaled deeply, “We have come here today in good faith but it seems you are more stubborn and reckless than we wanted to believe, we thought that perhaps you would hear the wisdom of our words and work with us and with the Empire, not against.”
“Work for the Empire general, let us not pretend, there is no with when it comes to your Empire." Dagda gritted his teeth as he spoke. “We know how this goes Generals, we know more than you know or could ever hope to know. This same ruse, this strategy of passive integration. Both Asrga and Taipur made the mistake and bought into your lies and deceit. They realised too late and their eventual resistance suffered for it. You wish to continue to spread your roots all over Aileann, day by day, week after week, month after month, year after year until we are all subjects and loyal servants of the Milesian Empire. We say no. For better or worse we will not bow to your force.”
Now it was Brandubh's turn to exhale deeply, “Our consent and goodwill to you Milesians and your trading routes seem to have been a misjudgement. The Treaty of 206 was no end but a mere delay to your plans of invasion. Of that it is now clear.”
King Breogan placed his hand on Brandubh's shoulder and he took a step back to allow his King forward, “Our course of action is now evident and it is a course we should have taken when last we met in battle, then we allowed you your safe haven, we will not make the mistake again. This time there will be no treaty, no surrender and no reprieve, when you are driven back it will not be to Carthaga but to Milesia itself.”
Tifar, Maximo and Hortensia shared a quick look between each other. Tifar seemed pleased and didn’t bother trying to hide it. The other two at least had the decency to wear a look of resignation and yet even they did not seem overly aghast by this turn of events. Perhaps they had expected this response, maybe even planned for it. Whatever the reason they did not appear overly demoralised.
After a brief pause it was General Maximo who spoke next, “Very well then, let it not be said that Milesia did not try in vain to change the course of war, but rather advised against it. Go, gather your forces and be ready. Many have stood in our way, many even have enjoyed some successes against us, you included. But they all succumb in the end, Aileann will be no different. You may have survived before but you will not survive this. Milesia's patience has run out and so too it would seem has your time.”
Maximo turned quickly and was already on his way back to their camp, Tifar smiled roughly and made to follow, last was Hortensia who gave a quick bow without expression before he too began the walk back.
As Breogan stood arms folded he watched as alongside him Ardgal turned and motioned back whispering the words just loud enough for his kin Dagda and Michaél, “A taste of what is to come", as one they nodded their understanding and together they began mouthing the words Breogan had heard many times in his youth during the Battles of the Empire Wars.
“Taranis.”
Their combined will was substantial. Almost immediately the skies darkened and a huge gale force wind erupted all about them. The Hall's ruins and very foundations began to shake and great tremors cracked and snapped around the ankles of the Generals and their Brutari as they made their way out. The force of it built and grew until it seemed the very ground itself verged on the brink of collapse.
Then just as their force reached a crescendo it stopped, Ardgal lowered his hands and as suddenly as it had begun it ended. The Generals, frozen in their positions were not so quick to regain their composure this time. Ardgal raised his voice so that even those back at the camps would hear.
“A warning. Though after your cowardly attempt it is more than you deserve. Remember Generals we are no Asgra, we are no Taipur, We are Aileann. You have your history and we have ours. A new history will be written in the coming times ahead. We shall see who is left to write it.”
Tifar was first back to his feet calling for the Brutari to gather around him as he did so. Before he could make any foolish move however he was refrained by the arm of Hortensia and together with Maximo they hurried back to their waiting camp.
Breogan heaved, “And so it begins.”
Brandubh appeared at his side, “It was always likely to happen, we and the Milesians could not continue with this charade. Whatever the terms there can only be one true power in Aileann. Us or them, no one else.”
Though no one interrupted him, Breogan saw a look of curiosity pass between Ardgal and Michaél as Brandubh spoke. He could not tell whether positive or negative.
“As before our success lies in your hands and we now know how we must proceed together. As one we can, and will rid ourselves of the Milesians but it will not be without trial. We must remain steadfast to any poisoned offers of Milesian peace or shared rule.”
“Indeed,” Breogan agreed, “with the knowledge we now hold our decision to prepare the forces seems ever more wise. Aachfheall and Ardgal, gather what forces you can muster and rally to Ardfhearg. As one we will strike into Carthaga taking any fortresses that lie in our path, this is our land and we will take the fight to them. This meeting has allowed us time to prepare, they will believe us many weeks away from mounting a serious attack, any reinforcements they call will not reach them in time.”
Aachfheall grunted his approval, '”Speed will be our greatest weapon in this fight, let us not delay, the details, the specific strategies they can be decided on the march. I bid you farewell and will see you in three days time with all the might that remains to us.”
Without waiting for any further talk or conversation he gathered himself and stooped once more under the entrance to begin the walk back to Oileain Cloiche.
“Aachfheall as usual has the right of it,” claimed Ardgal, “and we will follow in his footsteps and return at once to Belvoir. Until then, King, Earls.”
Without further ado they made their way back out all cept for the young Druaid who bowed to them. Though in truth he only directed it to Earl NíConnaill, for a moment Breogan thought he saw a look flash across her face but when he looked again she too was already marching back to the camp herself. A strange one that Dagda. Surely he does not think to entice her.
After making their way back to the camp they found the others eagerly awaiting their arrival. Before they could get a word in Breogan shot them a look to inform them that they must wait. Time was on their side for now it seemed but they had precious little to waste. The Milesians seemed neither aghast nor unprepared for war.
He didn’t utter a command himself but mounted and readied himself for the road ahead. Behind him Brandubh waved the others to match him. The talk was done, now came the planning, now came the war and now came a new test for his throne. Wordlessly he set the pace, the rest could follow on. He had led them to success against Milesia before, he would do so now once more.