415 CDXV. The Official Proposal (1/2)

”I don't know either, but you can be merry. I am perfectly capable of controlling them, there is no risk that I will do anything against my will, if your fear is this” Dag replied, not mentioning the episodes in which, having pushed his power to the maximum, he had completely lost control and risked killing his own allies.

The two archers looked again to each other, trying to figure out whether or not they had to believe in that young Master, who immediately inspired their confidence.

”At this point, if you have nothing against it, I would have an official proposal to make, benefiting from my title as Warchief of the Iron Alliance and official ambassador of the Okstorm nation...” Dag continued, trying to highlight his social charge, while his men looked at him with a questioning air.

Gridd and Reidar smiled, already knowing what Dag was going to do.

”And what would this proposal be, then?” Orvar asked again, squinting.

”Would you like to join us?”

Kjell and Sander were the first two to marvel at that question and tried to attract the attention of Egill, who remained focused on the scene, belatedly understanding Dag's intentions, but agreeing with him that it was the right move to make at that difficult time after they had lost so many men.

”Join you? It seems to me a very important proposal, are you sure you have thought about it?” Orvar asked, astonished by Dag's question, who seemed to be determined judging by his gaze.

”So far we've said that in these times it's hard to find new allies, right? You are at war, we are at war and in a territory thousands of miles from our home... I think if you were joining the Iron Alliance, it would be good for everyone” Dag said, who was quick to explain to the Hunters Of Ullr Clan leader and his archers all the specific rules that would have bound their agreement.

Predictably, after briefly consulting with some of his men, including Skaldr, who seemed to be the most inclined of them to accept, Orvar asked: ”And what are your conditions?”

”We didn't bring with us the official document to be signed, but... essentially the non-belligerence pact and mutual aid in the event of wars. No one from the Iron Alliance can declare war on other Clans without consulting other Masters before, and also, if you agree to join us, you can decide to face the current Warchief to get the title. As you may have understood, the current Warchief is me, so one of you, if you say so, would have the right to face me in a risk-free duel...”