Chapter 29: Strategy Amidst Tension
The Everia family's large tent once again became the center of the strategy. Eric sat at the head of the table, surrounded by the Seventh Elder, the Fifth Elder, and several army captains. The torchlight cast a faint glow on a large map in the center of the table, displaying the borders and locations of Ferelden's forces.
"Aldebrand's condition remains unclear," the Seventh Elder said, looking at Eric with a stern expression. "Our scouts are still following the Ferelden envoys, but there is no word yet on whether they have met up or not."
Eric stared at the map in silence. A plan began to form in his head, but the situation was too complicated to make a quick decision. He pointed to the neutral territory between Everia and Ferelden. "We must seize the moment. If Marquis Aldebrand accepts their envoy, it will be a disaster. But if he refuses, we still have a chance to stop Ferelden without a major conflict."
The Fifth Elder nodded. "Then what's the next step? We can't just wait."
Eric looked at everyone in the room. "I will go to Marquis Aldebrand myself. If Ferelden sends an envoy, then so should we."
The Seventh Elder protested, "It's too dangerous. If they trap you there, we'll not only lose the heir but also the entire strategy."
Eric smiled faintly. "It is precisely because I am the heir that I must do it. Marquis Aldebrand will not take my arrival lightly. Besides, I will not be going alone. I will bring a small team, including some elders, to ensure safety."
The Fifth Elder finally spoke. "If you believe this is the best way, I will support you. But remember, Aldebrand is notoriously cunning. Don't let them take advantage of you."
Eric nodded, then turned his gaze to one of the captains. "Gather your most trusted men. We will depart before dawn."
---
Ferelden Camp
On the other hand, Marquis Ferelden sat leisurely in his main tent, accompanied by his chief advisor. Their casual chat was interrupted when a soldier hurriedly entered.
"Marquis, our scouts have reported something," the soldier said, slightly out of breath. "There is movement from the Everia family's forces. A small group has left their camp."
Ferelden smiled coldly. "Small group? Do you know who is leading it?"
"We don't know for sure yet, but initial reports are that they were headed towards the Aldebrand area."
Ferelden's expression turned serious. He looked at his advisor. "So they are trying to take diplomatic steps too. That Everia kid is smarter than I thought."
His advisor nodded. "What will we do? If they succeed in influencing Aldebrand, our position will be shaken."
Ferelden was silent for a moment, then smiled coldly. "Send scouts to keep an eye on them. Don't attack, but make sure they know we're watching their every move."
---
Journey to Aldebrand
On the way to Marquis Aldebrand's territory, Eric led his group of ten people, including the Seventh Elder. They moved carefully through the dense forest, choosing paths less traveled to avoid enemy attention.
"Are you sure this is the right decision?" the Seventh Elder asked as they stopped to rest. "Ferelden must have predicted our move. They might have a plan to trap you here."
Eric stared at the forest in front of him with eyes full of conviction. "I know the risks. But if we don't try, we'll lose our chance to stop this war before it starts."
The Seventh Elder sighed. "I hope your faith pays off."
As they continued their journey, Eric continued to think about how he would deal with Aldebrand. He knew that the Marquis was not an easy man to convince, especially with Ferelden probably making a big offer. But he also knew that the power and honor of the Everia family was something that could not be ignored.
In the distance, the sound of horse hooves approached. Eric raised his hand, signaling for his group to stop. They all took their horses, preparing for possible danger.
"Who is that?" one of the guards whispered.
The shadows of several horsemen appeared among the trees. However, as they approached, one of them raised a white flag.
"A messenger from Marquis Aldebrand," said the man on the horse in a loud voice.
Eric stepped forward, looking directly at them. "What message do you bring?"
The man looked at Eric intently before answering. "Marquis Aldebrand has been awaiting your arrival. But he has also received an envoy from Ferelden. If you wish to speak with him, you must be prepared to face an unfavorable situation."
Eric smiled faintly, though his mind was alert. "Then we shouldn't keep him waiting."
---
Eric and his entourage continued to follow Aldebrand's messenger. Their journey continued through a narrow path surrounded by cliffs on one side and dense forest on the other. Tension was in the air, but Eric remained calm. He knew that at this moment, his every move was being watched closely.
The Seventh Elder approached Eric, speaking in a low voice. "Are you sure this isn't a trap? If Aldebrand has accepted Ferelden's offer, we may be walking straight into the enemy's lair."
Eric replied without looking up. "If this is a trap, then I wonder how they plan to catch me. And if Aldebrand hasn't taken sides yet, we should use every opportunity to make sure he's on our side or at least stays neutral."
After several hours of travel, they arrived at an open valley. A large fortress stood in the middle, surrounded by green fields and small villages. In the distance, the flag of the Aldebrand family flew atop the tallest tower.
The messenger stopped and turned to Eric. "Marquis Aldebrand awaits you in the great hall. However, I must warn you—the Ferelden envoy is there as well."
Eric nodded, showing no surprise. "Then take me there."
---
Hall of the Marquis Aldebrand
The large room was filled with ornaments that reflected the wealth and splendor of the Aldebrand family. On a throne decorated with gold carvings, Marquis Aldebrand sat majestically, wearing a deep blue robe that showed his status. To his right, a man dressed in luxurious attire stood with a confident expression—an envoy from Ferelden.
When Eric entered the hall, all eyes were on him. Marquis Aldebrand narrowed his eyes as if assessing the young figure who had just arrived.
"Eric Valentinus Everia," Marquis Aldebrand said in a voice full of authority. "I have heard much about you. A young man who leads a large family in turbulent times. Tell me, what brings you here?"
Eric stepped forward, bowing lightly in respect. "Thank you for having me, Marquis Aldebrand. I have come to discuss the future of our realm and the growing threats around us."
Before Eric could continue, the Ferelden envoy interrupted him. "Marquis Aldebrand, with all due respect, isn't this a waste of time? Ferelden has offered a clear and mutually beneficial alliance. Meanwhile, the Everia family only brings the threat of unnecessary conflict."
Eric glared at the messenger, but he restrained himself. Instead, he turned to Marquis Aldebrand. "Marquis, I have not come to make empty promises or threats. I have come to show you that standing on Ferelden's side will bring more harm than good."
Marquis Aldebrand smiled faintly. "Interesting. Explain what you mean."
Eric took a deep breath, then continued calmly. "Ferelden may seem like a powerful ally, but their goal was never about true alliance. They want to dominate, and anyone who works with them will soon realize that they are merely pawns in a larger game."
The Ferelden envoy retorted sharply. "Words without proof. Ferelden has shown our commitment by sending troops to protect this region from external threats."
Eric smiled coldly. "Commitment? Or expansion? Marquis Aldebrand, ask yourself—how many of the territories that Ferelden 'protected' ended up losing their freedom?"
Those words made Marquis Aldebrand fall silent. He looked at Eric more seriously now, as if trying to read his true intentions.
"Then what do you offer, Eric Everia?" Marquis Aldebrand asked finally.
Eric replied in a firm voice. "I offer you a choice. The choice to remain sovereign, to not get caught up in Ferelden's war, and to protect your people without having to give up the honor of the Aldebrand family. Together, we can stop Ferelden's ambitions before they become a greater threat."
---
The hall was silent. Everyone was waiting for Marquis Aldebrand's reaction. He looked at Eric, then at the Ferelden envoy, before finally standing up from his throne.
"You both have made some interesting arguments," he said slowly. "But I will not make a hasty decision. I need time to consider all this."
The Ferelden envoy looked displeased, but he bowed his head in respect. Eric did the same, though his mind continued to work. He knew that Aldebrand's decision could change the course of this conflict.
Marquis Aldebrand continued, "I will give you my answer tomorrow morning. For now, you are my guests. I hope you enjoy your time in this castle."
Eric bowed once more before turning and leaving the hall. He knew that their time was limited, and there was still much to be done before the decision was announced.
---
The Ferelden envoy returned to his room with a sour expression. He sent a secret message to Marquis Ferelden, reporting the situation at Aldebrand Fortress. Meanwhile, Eric discussed with the Seventh Elder, trying to think of a way to ensure that Marquis Aldebrand would side with them.
"Ferelden certainly won't give up so easily," Eric said, stroking his chin. "They have many ways to manipulate the situation to their advantage. We must be more careful in dealing with them."
The Seventh Elder nodded, his face remaining calm. "We know they are trying to infiltrate every alliance and turn it to their advantage. But Aldebrand is not one to be easily swayed, despite the money and power behind their offers."
Eric took a deep breath. "I know. But I need to find out more about Aldebrand's relationship with Ferelden. If we can find their weakness, we can force Aldebrand to choose the right side."
"This isn't just about political offers or military power," the Seventh Elder continued. "Aldebrand values the honor and integrity of his family. If we can show that we have more values that align with his principles, we can gain his trust."
Eric looked at the Seventh Elder seriously. "So, what should we do? I don't want to waste any more time with this game. We need to move quickly."
The Seventh Elder smiled faintly. "There are ways to prove that we are more worthy of being their allies than Ferelden. One way is to show how important the legendary sword Everia is. If Aldebrand knew that we were looking for the Sword of Everia, perhaps he would be honored and interested in joining us."
Eric nodded, his eyes shining. "Yes, if he understands the great legacy we carry, it could have a greater impact. The Everia Sword is not just a weapon, but a priceless symbol of power and honor. If Aldebrand realizes that, he might reconsider the alliance with Ferelden."
The Seventh Elder approached and whispered. "However, we must be careful. Ferelden will also know about your quest. They will not let you get the sword without a fight."
Eric knew full well that danger lurked at every step he took. However, if he could make the right move here, it could change the entire course of this conflict. "I will meet with Aldebrand tonight, to reveal everything we know about the Sword of Everia. If he sees its historical value, I am sure we can win his heart."
---
Night at Fort Aldebrand
As night fell, Eric prepared to meet with Marquis Aldebrand. The room in the castle was cold, but Eric could feel the heat of the tension. The decision he made tonight could determine many things, and he could not take this meeting lightly.
The Seventh Elder approached Eric before the meeting. "Remember, don't rush. Aldebrand values patience and wisdom. If you show ambition right away, he may see us as nothing more than a threat."
Eric nodded, and the two of them walked toward the meeting room.
Marquis Aldebrand was already waiting there, looking more relaxed than before. It seemed he had weighed everything carefully. "Eric, I expect you to bring something more than empty words tonight."
Eric nodded and opened the conversation calmly. "Marquis Aldebrand, I did not come to make empty promises. I came to show you why allying with Ferelden is not a wise choice."
Aldebrand stared at him sharply. "You are braver than I thought, Eric. But why is Ferelden not a wise choice in your opinion?"
In a deep voice, Eric began to explain. "Ferelden will not care about the legacy of the Aldebrand family, about the honor you have guarded for so many years. They will exploit you until you are no longer useful. However, we, the Everia family, are more than mere ambitions for power. We respect history, family, and the principles that have kept the balance of this world for centuries."
Aldebrand nodded slightly, and Eric continued, "As proof of our commitment to a better future, I would like to tell you about the Sword of Everia. This sword is not just a weapon. It is a symbol of the power and honor of the Everia family that has been passed down since our founder. If you wish to see how we can benefit each other, then let me take you to find it together."
Aldebrand's reaction was not immediately apparent. He pondered for a moment, then asked, "Why now? Why not earlier?"
Eric replied with conviction. "Because right now, we need allies who truly understand the true value of our family—and that can only be demonstrated through actions, not words."
Marquis Aldebrand was silent, then stood up. "I will consider your offer, Eric. Tomorrow, I will give you my answer."
---
When Eric returned to his room, he felt tension throughout his body. Every second felt like hours. At the same time, he knew that everything he did tonight was a big decision. Now, the only thing he could do was wait for Aldebrand's answer.
The Seventh Elder approached and said calmly, "You have played this game well. But remember, even though we may get the answers we want, Ferelden will not sit idly by."
Eric stared out the window, staring at the dim moon in the sky. "I know. This is just the beginning."
What's Ferelden's next move?
End of chapter