Tarian and Keldon are eating dinner at the latest banquet between the Dwarves, Elves, and Humans. Privately Tarian complains to Keldon that Fitik and Variel continue to drag their heels about forming an alliance. Tarian dreams of having the three races formalize the union that rose from the ashes of the victory of the wall. Will Tarian ever be able to get his coalition finalized with the Elves and Dwarves?
“I can’t believe this,” Tarian complained as he looked around the makeshift mess hall. Dropping his head onto a palm, Tarian forced a smile to his face as he examined those enjoying the meal.
Keldon swallowed his bite, then looked at his friend and commented, “You look annoyed, Tarian.”
Scratching at his eyebrows, Tarian groused, “This is the second banquet we’ve held, Kel.”
“Has it only been two?” Keldon asked as he stabbed a chunk of meat with his fork.
Tarian’s fingers began drumming next to his empty plate. Looking around the recently crafted tables and benches, Tarian lifted his glass and stared at the pale amber liquid at the bottom of the cup. “Yes, Kel, we’ve had two banquets with the elves and dwarves, not counting the one after they broke the assault.” He took a sip, managing not to cough from the strength of the wine.
Laughing, Keldon clapped his friend’s back. Then he purposefully took a swig of his wine goblet and sighed with satisfaction. Putting the cup back down, he leaned over and whispered, “If you’re serious about this alliance of yours, Tarian, you’ll have to get used to drinking this wine.”
“I know,” Tarian grumbled as he tilted his goblet back to him. “I will say that it’s very flavorful.”
“The elves won’t drink anything else,” Keldon said. “So drink up and get used to it.”
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