Being a diplomat is not so easy! The meeting in Miltas ended in failure. The views of the powerful are focused on the tiny Natra. Her residents rejoice, but Wayne isn’t in the mood for entertaining receptions: Marden, the newly acquired possession, is growing and flourishing to the envy of the regent’s subjects. The prince leans toward an alliance with Gruyer, the ruler of Soljest, in an attempt to establish balance and dispel the gathering clouds. And just as if by decree from above, an invitation from the greatest of kings lands on his desk! (c)