Session 16

They watch the war camp of the elves from a vantage point. Under the autumn sun the hills extend to the horizon perfectly symmetrical like waves and if painted on a stage. The Knights of the Black Fleece decide to send the prisoner and are granted an audience with the Steward of Seasons. 

The Elf

As they slowly ride between the warriors shrill pipes sound and they are allowed into the tent of the Elf who is always too close to be viewed as a whole and out of focus if they try. When they speak the Knights don't remember their voice but are aware of what has been said. -What is it that they seek? Perilake suggests a duel for the future of the Realm. -Who will be the champion of the King? Who else then the champion of the Grand Harvest Tournament, Sir Anastasz The Salt Knight. - You will serve me as a Courtier, they remember the Elf saying, for I will be the Ruler of this Realm and leave forever if I lose. Time passes and they are served exotic food washed down with spiced wine.

The Knights demand a bountiful harvest if they win. Assured of their superiority the Elf agrees but lusts for The Gilded Knight's sword.

The Gilded Knight: “What do I get in return?”

- He is offered an unbreakable compass in return and it is agreed.

The Salt Knight:”What do you strive for?”

- To rule the Realm.

The Salt Knight: ”Why do you disturb the natural order of the seasons?”

- It pleases them.

Later they sleep but won't remember their dreams. Before dawn the Rune Knight carves a sigil into his body. The Dove Knight offers Anastasz his River Helm, Ser Perilake Death Head, the sword he might lose, and Sir Valamonte whispers a rune into the Salt Knight's ear.

The unbreakable compass

The Champion of the Realm steps into the square formed by elven warriors. There stands the Steward of Seasons. As soon as the dissonant pipes sound The Elf attacks with a flurry of blows, faster than any human. Anastasz holds his ground, bashes the golden falx to the side and strikes. Back and forth they move until at last Death Head eagerly digs into the Elf's chest, who kneels holding their bleeding chest.

They stand between three hills covered in blood red flowers under a misty spring sky. The Elf is gone and with them their army and only a single tent remains. It holds the unbreakable compass watched by the longly viper: ”Salt Knight!” it hisses, “You will be know as the Elf Slayer” and then it slithers away.