It did not take long for Gavner to realize that the overarching division of the clan was opposition for selfish motives. After the first two hours of arguing, it was evident that the council did most of the arguing and swaying of the kingdom, and it was the council which was divided. The two opposing sides were the war hawks, and the peace keepers. The peace keepers had the first hour to present their side and rant. Their primary argument included how war was not only draining the resources of the kingdom, but it was also causing such a high casualty rate on the army, and another draft would have to be issued if the rates continued like this.

For the second hour, the war hawks hammered out their demands. They argued that the clan was at an all time low in terms of pride. Pride was a big issue for the dwarves, and the war was certainly not swaying in their favor. They said that if they gave in now, then there would be no recovering from such a blow. Also there was the promise of the price that the elves would pay for restitution, which was needed to cover the cost of the war.

The third hour was consumed by King Hronzak proposing compromises to the two sides’ wishes. Finally, the king proposed a clean compromise, for a new treaty to be drawn up with peace terms, where the elves paid restitution, and the Dwarves would concede the elven relics which they had been withholding for the past century, save for the relics given to the clan as gifts.

“For this,” The king said, “We will send Master Nahs, and Master Shadow back to the elven kingdom to discuss these terms with Queen Olivia. If further negotiations are required, we will send ambassadors, and myself to meet with her and her ambassadors at the Hall of the High Dramorsha.”

Gavner sighed. Finally, all of the arguing was over. Gavner understood that this meant tons of additional footwork for he and Black Shadow; however, he would have happily sailed the high seas rather than listen to this petty political jargon. Suddenly, a struggle arose outside the hall and before anybody could react, the doors burst open.

“Shadow, grab the king!” Gavner shouted as he picked up an end table and ran to the window for cover. There was no time to think; only time to do.