***
Castlebourne.
Telmarath.
"I have sent envoys to Astolfo in the south and informed them Telmarath's forces will be marching there," Howard explained.
The Duke of Athalaris began to take concrete steps to quell the rebellion in the south, a region closer to Telmarath than the White Coast. King Otto had previously been unable to decide which side he would take in the dispute between the two Houses in Highvale.
Prince Edmund, however, was different. The future King of Athalaris could easily decide whom he would support in power. Astolfo was far more powerful than Southtown, especially in agriculture.
Duke Howard stood tall, facing the King's throne, which Prince Edmund was sitting on to emphasize his rule. Not only Howard and Edmund were in the throne hall, but other ministers were there as well, including Dieter.
