The men will unfortunately appear increasingly ill at ease with this newcomer, who flaunts his status. Is he a spy, perhaps? Sent from the east to support Unhalad? Does he think he is better than them, that he understands more?

"Perhaps," one peacemaker offers, as the crowd's attention turns, "He needs a sample of Arne's might and legacy."

To say they present a sophisticated elixir would be a stretch of generosity and imagination. They deliver a mug, housing a lukewarm and neutrally, faintly floral-fragrant concoction — prized, to see how one of the men's hands tremble, putting it forward.