Chapter 159: Understanding
The council hall was quiet, save for the soft scratching of quills and the distant hum of life beyond the gates. Kael and King Thalren stood at the center, surrounded by the council and the Hollow's most trusted leaders. Sunlight filtered through the tall windows, casting elongated shadows across the polished floor.
Thalren leaned slightly forward, his amber eyes piercing. "You wield considerable influence over your people, Lord Kael. They follow you not merely out of respect, but out of fear, loyalty, and hope. I must ask—how do you intend to maintain that balance?"
Kael folded his arms, his dark eyes unwavering. "Balance is not something I maintain with threats or empty gestures. It is built through trust, and through action. My people know that I lead from the front, that I fight with them and protect them without hesitation. They also know that betrayal or inaction has consequences."
A murmur ran through the council, some nodding, some frowning. Fenrik and Thalos exchanged a glance, both wary but attentive.
Thalren's tone softened slightly, almost contemplative. "And yet, every ruler faces choices where lives are weighed against ambitions. You speak of protecting your people—yet what if your decisions bring the outside world down upon them? Even now, I wonder if your recent actions have attracted attention far beyond these lands."
Kael's gaze hardened. "I am aware. That is why I prepare, and why I do not strike without cause. The Hollow is no longer a place that can be ignored. I will defend it, and I will make those who threaten it pay the cost."
Thalren studied Kael for a long moment, weighing each word. "It is clear that you possess both strength and cunning. But consider this—strength alone does not prevent wars. Diplomacy, alliances, and careful calculation can achieve what armies cannot. What is your plan should Westmarch, or any other power, decide to test the Hollow?"
Kael tilted his head slightly, considering the king. "I do not seek war with kingdoms that act with reason. Westmarch is on friendly terms as of now. I am aware of the dangers of power, Your Majesty. But the Hollow will not bow, nor will it be bullied. Those who seek to harm us will find no mercy, but those who seek trade or counsel will find open doors."
Thalren nodded slowly. "A measured approach. I respect that. Yet, one must ask—how much of your power is visible, and how much is hidden? I have heard rumors, Lord Kael, of feats that are… extraordinary. Tell me—are these tales exaggerations, or do you wield forces beyond the ordinary?"
Kael's jaw tightened. "The rumors hold some truth. But those forces exist to defend this Hollow, not to expand it into conquest. Every action I take is for my people, not for vanity."
The king's lips curved into a faint, approving smile. "Then perhaps our interests are aligned. I seek peace, stability, and prosperity for my kingdom. I can respect a leader who prioritizes the safety of his people above all else."
Kael's eyes narrowed slightly. "Then we are not so different, Your Majesty. But let it be understood—peace must be mutual. The Hollow is no place for cowards or those who would exploit its people."
There was a moment of silence. Then Thalren's voice, softer this time, carried a subtle warmth. "I understand, Lord Kael. You have forged a people and a place unlike any other. I see their loyalty, their strength. I do not wish to see it destroyed. But tell me—what do you expect from kingdoms like mine? What would you ask of us in order to ensure your Hollow thrives without interference?"
Kael's reply was measured, precise. "First, acknowledgement. Let the Hollow exist without unnecessary interference. Second, open trade where it benefits both our people. Third, a line of communication—if either of our interests is threatened, we must speak before we strike. And finally… respect for my authority within my walls. My people answer to me. That is non-negotiable."
Thalren considered this, leaning back slightly. "Fair terms. Westmarch will honor them… as long as the Hollow proves its integrity and its willingness to cooperate."
Kael's lips curled into a faint, confident smile. "Then we are in agreement—for now. Let our actions, not words alone, define our future relationship."
The council observed in silence, some visibly relieved, others still cautious. Fenrik whispered to Rogan, "I don't trust him yet… but he knows what he wants."
Rogan shrugged, "Kael isn't exactly conventional, but he's proven that he acts. That counts for something."
Thalren rose from his chair. "Then let us break bread together. A shared meal will cement understanding, and perhaps offer insight into our people's spirits."
Kael nodded once, a simple acknowledgment, but one heavy with weight. "Very well. Let it be so."
As servants began bringing out food and drink, Thalren leaned slightly toward Kael, lowering his voice. "Your people speak of your exploits with reverence and fear alike. I have seen it firsthand. You wield power responsibly, I hope."
Kael's gaze met the king's. "I do. Always for the Hollow."
Thalren smiled faintly. "Then perhaps this is the beginning of a careful alliance. Time will tell if trust is truly earned."
Kael nodded, the faintest trace of a smile appearing on his face. "Time will tell indeed."
The council members relaxed slightly, though the weight of caution still lingered in their eyes. Kael returned to his place at the head of the table, his mind already calculating the balance between diplomacy, defense, and the continued growth of the Hollow. Lyria's hand brushed briefly against his arm, a subtle reminder that even in the midst of strategy and negotiation, he was not alone.
Outside, the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the Hollow. Within, the wheels of governance, diplomacy, and cautious trust began to turn.