Of Kings and Pawns

Chapter 27 - The Lakes Shall Guard

Lord Peter Sven and his entourage rode steadily through the mist-covered lands of House Finn. The early signs of winter were creeping in, with cold winds blowing through the trees and a thin layer of frost coating the ground. Peter glanced at his wife, who rode beside him, her expression calm but attentive, while his sons followed closely behind, their youthful eyes absorbing the vastness of Finn’s domain.

As the banner of The Three Crowns entered the village leading to Lakeshore Watch, the people gathered in clusters, cheering and waving to welcome House Sven. The common folk, unaware of Peter’s true intentions, saw this as a pledge of support in the looming conflict with House Rus. But Peter knew better... he had come to strike a deal, not offer aid.

Lakeshore Watch loomed ahead, a fortress of imposing towers and stone bridges stretching over a series of lakes. The land surrounding it was known as the Ripples, a network of lakes that made the castle nearly impenetrable. It was a marvel of defensive architecture, yet Peter felt a sense of pity. This stronghold, once the steward seat of House Finn under the control of House Sven, now belonged to a fledgling lord who believed himself ready for war.

When they reached the great hall, Lord Elmar Finn greeted them. He was younger than Peter but carried the weight of leadership heavily, with gray streaks already cutting through his bright brown hair. Tension filled the air as Peter smiled, exchanging pleasantries, though both men knew the real reason for the visit.

"Lord Elmar," Peter began, his voice measured, "I trust you’re preparing for the inevitable?"

Elmar’s eyes narrowed, already expecting this line of questioning. "House Rus will find no easy victory here. We’ll throw them back into the frozen wastes they came from."

Peter smirked, impressed but unconvinced by Elmar’s bravado. "Bold words, but even the mightiest wall needs reinforcements. What’s your plan?"

"We’ll fight them," Elmar responded firmly, his voice low but unwavering. "The lakes have guarded us for centuries, and they will continue to do so."

Peter leaned back slightly, his smile faint. "I admire your confidence. But I’ve brought an offer. My ski-shooters, the finest archers in the North, can bolster your defenses. I can train your men, prepare them for the war that’s coming."

Elmar was no fool. He knew House Sven’s reputation for neutrality and suspected Peter’s visit was not just about military aid. "And what do you want in return?" Elmar asked bluntly. "House Sven has kept its distance for decades, yet here you are, with an army outside my walls. What is it you truly seek?"

Peter’s expression didn’t falter. "I don’t want to share a border with House Rus, Elmar. I’m offering you help... real help... because once Rus crosses your lands, they’ll be at my gates. You need allies, not just soldiers."

Elmar gave a bitter laugh. "So, that’s it. You think we can’t defend ourselves. You want House Finn back under Sven’s control. Just like the old days when my ancestors were stewards to yours."

Peter tilted his head, shrugging off the accusation. "Maybe it’s for the best. House Sven can offer more than just military aid. You could become stronger, more secure under our protection. Think about your people."

Elmar’s eyes flashed with anger. "I’ll think about my people. But I won’t trade one overlord for another. You think I have to choose between Rus domination or Sven vassalage. But I choose neither."

Peter sighed, realizing Elmar would not be easily swayed. "There’s no shame in aligning with strength, Elmar. You’d keep your lands, your title, and we’d stand together against House Rus."

But Elmar shook his head. "You don’t understand, do you? This is our home, and I’ll defend it without being anyone’s pawn. ‘The Lakes Shall Guard’... those are our words, and we’ll make sure these lakes run red with Rus blood before we bow to anyone."

The tension thickened in the room as Peter’s final offer was met with defiance. Elmar stood tall, his back straightened, his determination clear. Peter, seeing that no deal could be struck today, nodded in reluctant respect.

"You’ve made your choice," Peter said quietly. "We’ll be returning home then. But the offer remains open."

Elmar didn’t flinch. "Thank you, but we’ll stand on our own."

With that, Peter and his family left Lakeshore Watch, their banner of the three golden crowns in a field of blue billowing in the cold wind. As they rode away from the castle, Peter glanced back at the fortress standing proud amidst the lakes. For now, Elmar Finn had chosen his path... one of defiance, independence, and perhaps, destruction. Only time would tell if House Finn could truly stand as the wall against House Rus, or if they would crumble under the weight of war.

For Peter, the game was far from over. He would return to his seat in The Three Crowns, ever-watchful, knowing that in the end, alliances would be made, whether by choice or necessity.