War Of The Wildlands(87)

“Where will Na’zora’s borders end?” Reylana asked, lifting her voice above the noise.

“We will rebuild all of the farming villages that were destroyed in the fighting,” Aelryk began. “That land was already ours. We will take only the nearest sections of forest that are no longer sufficient for your people. Those areas will be converted to farms which will feed our growing population.”

“So basically Na’zora gives nothing, the elves have to move, and Na’zora gains farmland.” With sarcasm, she added, “That seems fair.”

Rising to his feet, the Sycamore Overseer spoke again. “The Forests of Viera will make a fine home for my clan. We will accept that land on the condition that it never be touched by Na’zora. You may not spread your borders or build farms in its vicinity. Nor may you create settlements between Viera and Enald.” He looked around the room proudly, hoping the elves would no longer object.

“Agreed,” the king replied.

Sounds of approval came from the seated elves. The Overseer nodded and sat back in his chair.

“Viera is a small forested area,” Essa said. “You may find it inadequate someday.”

“I’m not opposed to future negotiations,” the king declared.

“You will be too busy running your kingdom to care about us elves,” Reylana said. “I, for one, would be happy if you just forgot about us as long as you leave us in peace.”

“Let’s discuss the Sycamore Clan,” Aelryk suggested. “You have stated that you’ve already returned from your new village across the river and intend to occupy your original area. That is acceptable.”

“It had better be,” Nat replied. “I expect my clan to be left alone in future. Na’zora will never need to extend its borders to Al’marr. Unless, of course, you want to start a war with them. We would gladly fight on their side.”

A hush came over the crowd upon hearing Nat’s threat. His expression was serious, and he intended to keep his promise. He stared at the king, expecting an angry response.

“I assure you that I have no plans to take your land.” The king’s voice was calm, his expression revealing no dishonesty. “Until we can learn to trust each other, we must abide by the terms spelled out in this treaty.”

“Then make sure you add a line about staying away from us,” Nat remarked. “I don’t want it to slip your mind.”

Aelryk made no effort to reply and turned his attention to the parchment in front of him. After a few moments of silence, he said, “I believe we’ve covered all of the clans and their territories. All that remains is to draft a final copy and have all of you sign it.”

“Assuming the final copy is correct,” Reylana replied. “I’d hate to see you trying to trick us with your fancy words.”

“I assure you, my lady, that the treaty will read exactly as promised. Everything that has been declared during these negotiations will be upheld by Na’zora.”

The elves began to mingle as the Na’zoran scribes busied themselves drafting the final copies of the treaty. Nat joined Essa and Reylana, the three of them moving as far from the king as possible.

“I think we’re all losers here,” Reylana commented. “Well, maybe not you, Nat.” She gave him a weak smile.

“We’ve lost our sense of security,” he replied. “We still have our homes, but this war has changed us.”

“Most of the clans are moving farther from Na’zora,” Essa pointed out. “The Silver Birch Clan is moving closer.”

“That will lead to their demise,” Nat replied.

“I hope this king keeps his promise to them, but I’ll stand with them in battle if he doesn’t.” Reylana’s voice was determined. She did not trust Aelryk, and she was willing to continue the fight if she had to.

“With so many of us moving, I’m sure Na’zora will feel free to expand,” Essa said. “They won’t get too close to us for now, but in time I think they’ll overstep their boundaries. We must prepare our children to fight and keep close ties with the other clans.”

“Agreed,” Nat said.

Once the documents were prepared, each clan took its turn looking over the words for discrepancies. Finding no tricks, they placed their signatures on the treaty. They were now free to return to the Wildlands and make new lives for themselves. Peace had been promised, friendship had not.





Chapter 52




Once the treaty had been completed, the people of Na’zora began preparations to crown their new king. On that same day, he would wed Princess Lisalla, the woman who would be their queen. Despite the massive rebuilding that lay ahead of them, the citizens were determined to celebrate.