require defence and that they need not fear a massed landing. Furthermore, they believe that the cold climate will protect them from southerners. Situated even further north, amidst endless ice and perpetual cold, the volcanic city-states of Uweveld are perhaps the only truly safe areas, but they are also the only ones erecting new strongholds at the entrances to the paradise valleys.’
‘And the east?’ Kari and Leif asked at the same time, exchanging glances.
‘The east…’ Tahon sighed. ‘The tribes living on the plains of Her’therun will simply move further east, deep into the continent as far as the borders of the Forbidden Woods. It is a long journey, but one they know well. If necessary, they’ll head south to seek refuge in the shadow of the Dava’therm Mountains, together with the inhabitants of the Great Steppe situated there. On the east coast, there are six or seven proper towns, and the rest are… Hmm… Nomads wandering with their herds or travelling in caravans from settlement to settlement. The tribal chieftains know that they cannot cope on their own in a war against the Nakheri, and their only chance is to gather under the Khan’s wing, on the border between Her’therun and Dava’therm, in an ancient magical stronghold dating back to the time before the Great Cataclysm. There they will be able to defend themselves, with dwarven bastions on one flank and impenetrable, deadly forests on the other. As long as they hold the fortress of Tel’qilun, the peaceful plain lying between the mountains and the Forbidden Woods will remain safe.
‘And the Nakher will not dare to attack the dwarves,’ added Einar.
‘They tried that a long time ago and learnt the hard way that it was the worst possible idea.’ The beastman spread his hands and shrugged.
‘So our best chance for peace…’
‘... is to survive with the help of the Empire...‘
‘...the city-states on the southern coast,‘ concluded Kari and Leif.’
‘Let’s hope that’s exactly how it turns out,‘ sighed Tahon, and, spotting the fortifications of Stairon, quickened his pace.
‘Suddenly, I’ve got a bit
