Birthright: The Contested Seat

Harren

Galenport's sage had been away, studying a new fungus that was discovered in the forest. From what Harren was told, he was working with his counterpart in Haven to see if this new fungus could be used for medicinal purposes. Harren hadn't noticed the man's absence at first, but it became apparent when Lord Galia was having to juggle so many of his duties. Other than the sage being away, Harren did not know much about the man. 

He sat in his study, shuffling through letters that came for Lord Galia. With the sage being in Haven, Harren had insisted that Lord Gaila delegate some of the responsibility to him. The title of High Advisor was not very demanding and Harren was growing a bit uncomfortable with the lack of things to work on. Kyran was busy with lessons, and Tymen was working closely with the guard, training to become a bodyguard for him. Both of his boys were working hard for their cause, but Harren was beginning to feel a bit useless.

The task of maintaining Lord Galia's schedule, and reading his letters, was delegated to Harren at his request. This gave Lord Galia more time to focus on more pressing matters regarding his appeal to Lord Tuhlack and working to squash any whisperings of their brewing rebellion. 

A letter had arrived from Ilyrian, which Harren had assumed was news from the envoy. Lord Galia's friendship with the Ilyrian king was a great advantage. Ilyrian contributed to a large portion of Ethios' trade and to have them on the rebellion's side could mean the difference between success and failure.

Harren opened the letter and began to read, surprised that it was addressed to him:

Harren, 
I assume you've been wondering after me. I confess I have not had an easy time reaching Galenport. Upon my escape with Genna from Galverin, it has been one obstacle after another. We took refuge in Magnolia for a time, while my wounds healed from the queen's flogging. The full details will have to wait until my arrival in Galenport, but Genna has chosen to stay behind. 

Upon boarding a vessel from Magnolia, we were caught in a violent storm that sunk our vessel. I nearly died at sea, and if it weren't for an Ilyrian patrol vessel spotting me, I would have. I have been in Ilyrian for quite some time, recovering from all I have suffered. 

I will be returning to Galenport with the envoy sent by Lord Galia. We have met with the King of Ilyrian and a plan has been set into motion. I look forward to meeting with both you and Lord Galia. We have a great deal to discuss. 

Until then, 
Varyth Fallway
Sage Royal of Ethios

Harren was relieved that Lord Varyth was alive. He had begun to seriously worry that the queen had caught up to him. He was also relieved to hear that Genna would stay away. She was the last thing Kyran needed at this important time in his life. Whatever she was doing in Magnolia, she should stay there. She was not welcome anywhere near him, or his son. None of this would be happening if it weren't for her. Not only did she endanger Kyran's life, but also the rest of his children.

He thought of them then, wondering how they were fairing in Picket. He wished to bring them to Galenport before things took a turn for the worse. He had to ensure their safety above anything else. Of course, they were safe with Lord Tallgrow, but Picket was surrounded by enemies. The entire province of the Queensgrove was sworn to Ronald Arintear and the queen. If war could not be avoided, then it would be near impossible to move his children from the Queensgrove without detection. With this in mind, he decided he would ask for Lord Galia's permission to bring them to Galenport at their meeting.

Harren read through the rest of Lord Galia's letters, just in time for the servant who came to fetch him for the meeting. He made his way through the castle to Lord Galia's study. The halls were void of life, save for a few servants. It wasn't a busy morning, now that the River Lords had returned to their respective homes.