章 137: allies or enemies
Work on the future kingdom advanced steadily. Ember Circle forces, allied clans, and common folk labored shoulder-to-shoulder, erecting frameworks of buildings, digging irrigation channels, and marking boundaries for training yards and marketplaces. The energy was vibrant—optimism fueled every hammer's strike and every spade of turned earth.
As structures rose, scouts and travelers brought news of distant lands. Lyrus knew the world wouldn't stand still while they built. Rumors said several kingdoms eyed the valley: some with curiosity, others with greed, and a few with cautious goodwill.
One such land was Ravenholm, a mountainous realm famed for its austere knights and strict codes of honor. Ravenholm's messengers had inquired about the Ember Circle after the Serpent threat ended, wanting to know if this new settlement would be friend or foe. Their knights respected strength and moral virtue. If approached diplomatically, Ravenholm could become a valuable ally—an exchange of trade and mutual defense. Yet, they valued tradition fiercely; if they perceived weakness or trickery, alliances would fail.
To the southeast lay the Kingdom of Marivelle, a prosperous trade nation controlling key rivers. Marivelle's merchants whispered interest in opening new routes to the Ember settlement, imagining profits in rare herbs, crafted goods, and Ember-forged steel. But Marivelle's rulers were said to be shrewd negotiators—failing to meet their terms might sour relations. Still, their interest suggested the possibility of peaceful coexistence and wealth.
Further off, drifting along desert plains, the Vaskir Khanate thrived on nomadic raids and unpredictable pacts. They watched every rising power with predatory eyes. If the Ember settlement appeared too soft, Vaskir raiders might test its defenses. Conversely, if Ember forces demonstrated their strength convincingly, the Khanate might either respect their new neighbor or steer clear entirely.
And rumors hinted at a secretive island realm known as Aurehan, said to have mystics who valued knowledge and diplomatic ties over war. Aurehan's envoys traveled rarely, but their silence didn't mean disinterest. Lyrus considered reaching out carefully—knowledgeable allies could aid cultural and scholarly growth of the new kingdom.
As evening settled, Lyrus paced near the half-built sanctuary. The world beyond offered potential allies and looming threats. He would guide the Circle with careful diplomacy, ensuring no repeat of the Serpents' dark games.
For now, he kept these kingdoms in mind as he considered what to name his rising domain. It must be a name that rang with dignity and strength, welcoming honest friendship and deterring ill intent.
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