The first light of dawn revealed the full toll of the recent battle. Fort Arkhaven, once a bastion of defiance, now lay in a shambles. The blood-soaked earth was strewn with the remnants of combat, broken weapons, discarded armor, and the fallen soldiers who had given their all.

  Kylian, though physically exhausted, took on the somber task of helping to burn the dead. His hands, which had once wielded a sword with deadly precision, now carefully laid his fallen comrades to rest. The faces of his fellow defenders, many of whom had become his friends, were marked by the fatigue of battle and the deep sorrow of loss. A priest recited mantras, and the bodies of the fallen comrades were cremated, symbolizing the release of the soul from its physical form. Flames rising from their pyres were a poignant reminder of the heavy cost of their victory.

  Lord Arlyn, despite his fatigue, stood for the cremation, then moved to oversee the recovery efforts with a resolute determination. His leadership during the battle had been instrumental, and now he directed the repair of the fortifications and the treatment of the wounded. His eyes, though weary, reflected a deep pride in his men and a profound sense of relief that the battle was over.

  Strategist Maxwell Arlyn, still bearing the signs of sleepless nights and intense planning, worked tirelessly alongside the general. His strategic acumen had been vital in the defense of the fort, and now he focused on the logistics of rebuilding and preparing for the next phase of their military readiness.

  Sergeant Brant, having trained many of the soldiers who fought bravely, was missed by many. Commander Greaves took on the role of mentor for the time being. He provided guidance and comfort to the younger recruits, many of whom had faced their first real combat during the siege. His stern demeanor softened as he offered words of encouragement and support.

  Eamon, who had fought alongside Kylian, was among those who needed the most care. His injuries were severe, but his spirit remained unbroken. Kylian and the others rallied to his side, ensuring he received the medical attention he needed while providing companionship during his recovery.

  ...

  The Galdorian camp, once bustling with the fervor of assault, was now a scene of desolation. The tents lay in disarray, some burned and others abandoned in the haste of the retreat. The Galdorian soldiers, their faces etched with fatigue and defeat, worked to salvage what they could from the remnants of their failed siege.

  General Thalric, though a figure of formidable presence, now bore the marks of frustration and defeat. His camp was quiet, the once lively discussions and strategic meetings replaced by a bleak atmosphere. He and War Minister Oryn, both exhausted and disheveled, convened to assess the situation and plan their next steps.

  Oryn, whose strategic brilliance had been overshadowed by the unforeseen setbacks, was particularly concerned about the future. The loss of the giant and the failed siege had left them in a precarious position, and he could pray for the success of their diplomatic negotiations.

  ...

  The next day, a palpable shift in the air swept through Fort Arkhaven. What had been a sense of relief now gave way to the tension of diplomacy. The arrival of the envoys signaled the beginning of negotiations that could reshape the future of both kingdoms.

  From the Kingdom of Alanor came Duke Alistair, a diplomat renowned for his mastery of court politics. His composed demeanor and sharp gaze exuded authority. Accompanied by his aides, he entered the chamber with an air of quiet determination, ready to secure favorable terms for his kingdom.

  From Galdor arrived Duke Varric, a seasoned negotiator known for his ruthless precision. His measured steps and piercing eyes reflected a man used to wielding words as weapons. Both envoys knew that the balance of power now rested on the outcome of this meeting.

  ...

  Within the stone walls of Fort Arkhaven's diplomatic chamber, scarred by the recent conflict, the two dukes faced each other across a polished oak table. The weight of their kingdoms' futures hung heavy in the air.

  Duke Alistair, with his graying beard and a demeanor that exuded calm authority, began the discussions with measured precision. "Duke Varric, I appreciate your promptness in attending these negotiations. Our people have suffered greatly, and we must address these matters with the seriousness they deserve."

  Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

  Duke Varric, his eyes as sharp as a hawk's and his posture radiating controlled confidence, responded with a slight, respectful nod. "Indeed, Duke Alistair. The weight of these discussions is not lost on me. Let us proceed with the aim of reaching a resolution that serves the interests of both our kingdoms."

  Alistair leaned forward slightly, his fingers steepled as he outlined Alanor's position. "To start, the Kingdom of Alanor demands the return of Blueheaven and the immediate withdrawal of your troops from our territory. The fort is crucial to our strategic interests, and its retention is non-negotiable for us."

  Varric's eyes narrowed slightly, his expression thoughtful. "A fair request, though not one easily met. Blueheaven is a strategic asset we have invested considerable resources in. The return of such a stronghold without adequate compensation is problematic. Moreover, I must emphasize that our recent acquisition of the giant, which played a pivotal role in the conflict, is also a point of contention."

  Alistair's eyebrows raised slightly, but his voice remained steady. "The giant, while indeed a formidable force, was but a single element in this protracted conflict. Our focus is on the fort and the withdrawal of troops. We are prepared to discuss reasonable terms to facilitate this process."

  Varric smiled thinly, recognizing the diplomatic maneuver. "And yet, Duke Alistair, the giant's role in the siege was not insignificant. It was a key factor in your current predicament. Should you wish for the return of your captured soldiers, which we hold as war prisoners, the giant must be returned as part of the agreement."

  Alistair's face remained impassive, but his eyes sparkled with the sharpness of his wit. "Ah, so we find ourselves in a delicate dance. Your demand is understood, yet the giant's return involves complexities that go beyond mere negotiation. Perhaps we might find a middle ground that respects both our needs?"

  Varric's smile widened slightly, recognizing the diplomatic maneuver. "A middle ground, you say? Very well. How about...

  The conversation continued throughout the night, with both diplomats engaging in a delicate ballet of negotiation. They discussed the details of the non-aggression treaty, the conditions for the return of the giant, and the strategic implications for both kingdoms. Their exchange was a testament to their skill, each phrase and counterpoint carefully crafted to advance their respective positions.

  As the morning sun spread its light, the envoys arrived at a consensus. The final agreement was encapsulated in a detailed treaty that reflected the intricate balance achieved through their negotiation.

  The treaty, finalized after extensive discussion, included the following key terms:

  The Treaty

  Non-Aggression Pact: Both kingdoms agreed to a non-aggression treaty for a period of two years. This pact was designed to prevent further hostilities and provide a framework for peaceful relations.

  Territorial Adjustments: Galdor would retain control over Blueheaven and its surrounding territory. This concession was balanced by the understanding that Alanor would not seek to reclaim the fort during the treaty period.

  Giant's Return: In exchange for the territorial concession, Galdor agreed to share detailed information on how they had managed to bring the giant from the Rainforest. This information included the methods used to persuade the giant to join their cause.

  Captured Soldiers: Alanor's captured soldiers would be returned in exchange for the return of the captured Giant as part of the agreement, ensuring the humane treatment of prisoners and the restoration of diplomatic goodwill.

  With the treaty signed and the terms agreed upon, the diplomatic chamber fell into a reflective silence. The intricate dance of negotiation had concluded, and the path to peace was set. The future of both kingdoms now rested on the implementation of the terms and the hope that this fragile peace would endure.

  ...

  The ink had barely dried on the treaty when the exchange began. Alanorian and Galdorian soldiers, weary from captivity, crossed the neutral ground between the armies, their expressions a mix of relief and wariness. Among them, Kylian and Eamon watched the scene with a mixture of hope and skepticism. The sight of their comrades returning alive kindled a spark of optimism but the release of the Giant sparked a burn in their hearts.

  As the last soldiers were exchanged, a Galdorian envoy approached Duke Alistair with a sealed document. The envoy, clad in dark armor and bearing the emblem of Galdor, a roaring lion, handed the parchment over with a solemn nod. Alistair accepted it, his gaze unwavering as he broke the seal and unrolled the document.

  Inside, the method Galdor had used to acquire the giant was meticulously detailed. The key lay in a rare mineral known as Starfire Ore. This ore emitted a faint, mesmerizing glow, which the giants were irresistibly drawn to. The document explained that by offering a substantial amount of Starfire Ore, the Galdorians had been able to secure the services of a giant for a year. However, the agreement was bound by stringent conditions.

  The giant had to return to his homeland within a year. If not, the retribution from the clan would be swift and catastrophic, potentially bringing the wrath of an entire legion of giants upon the offending kingdom.

  "Shit, I could have asked for more," Duke Alistair regretted the lack of information as he finished reading the details.