Epilogue

The Heroes return to Mandal, where they can lay Machteld to rest. A monumental mausoleum will be erected to commemorate the Battle of Mandal, where many brave men and women gave their lives to guarantee the freedom of the Rjurik Highlands.

* * *

The Rjurik Highlands are united once more, under the protection of High King Sigurd Hrothwulfson of House Jotunulf. Bearer of the Crown of Iron, wielder of of the Runefang of Reynir, the very image of the hero-kings of old. With the support of his Council of Kings, and both the Emerald Spiral and the Oaken Grove at his side, the future of the North looks bright and full of hope.

* * *

Even an immortal can feel the sting of loss, but Malik holds back the tears as he holds his son in his arms, as he sees in his eyes the reflection of his beloved Machteld. But he will not rest for long; he has avenged Machteld, yet he still has not plunged his poisonous dagger in the heart of the one that killed his mother. Just a matter of time.

* * *

Gerold and Beate Karlburgher honor the memory of their warrior mother, who gave them a realm away from home. Who taught them to fight on the battlefiled, and at court. The Black Lion flag flutters in the wind, a promise of prosperity and conquests yet to come.

* * *

As always divided, as always of two worlds, Niobhe takes the time to be together with her husband and son in far Anuire. But she has not forgotten her duties in the North, as a queen, as a mage, and as the bridge between the world of Men and that of Elves. Her gaze lingers on the ancient map, at the realm of Shadows that marks the border between Anuire and the Rjurik Highlands; one war is over, a new one may too soon begin.

* * *

Who would have thought he would reach so high? As he watches his beautiful queen and his lovely princesses playing in their vast chambers, King Storm of Stjordvik gazes on his city from his royal balcony. Adventure, riches, love, adoration from his subjects, and now immortality in the songs of the skalds. He has it all! Yet he knows... out there, beyond the horizon, one more adventure awaits.