The guard led him through many halls and stairways, making him feel confused and certain that they were going in circles. The guard seemed to know where he was going, however, and before too long they were standing before a great iron-wrought door that led into the throne room. Standing to the side was another more impressive looking guard. Without saying anything, the outside guard turned and left Baelisk with the new guard, who took a small horn and blew a short riff. In turn, larger horns played the same tune from inside the throne room. The guard opened the door and led Baelisk in.

The room was huge, with many guards and wise-men and entertainers scattered around on either side of a long, red velvet carpet that led all the way up to Bernin, the king. He was sitting on a jewel-encrusted throne, with Princess Chamina sitting on a more understated throne to his right, and a scholarly looking Tatarian with a scroll standing to his left. There was a breathless atmosphere to the chamber; the people were all staring at the visitor expectantly.

"The captain, your Highness." said the guard. With a nod, the guard turned and went out.

Baelisk was stiff with nervousness. He stepped forward as carefully and with as much dignity as he could. Up at the throne, the king quietly dismissed the scholar. Baelisk finally found himself before the king. He bowed humbly.

"Captain Baelisk Roterra, here as you wished, your Majesty."

The king looked down at him and smiled. "Very good." he said. "Just on time, I think. Now, you were here about herding a flock of sheep down from the mountains, hmm?"

"Er, well," Baelisk stammered, confused, "no, your Highness. I actually came over the matter of your daughter. I believe we arranged to talk about this a few weeks ago, if I am correct. I am here to ask for the hand of Princess Chamina." He bowed again, looking at the princess as he did so. She smiled.

"Ah, yes!" said the king. "I remember. Well, then, if I were to give you my daughter’s hand, what would you give in return?"

Baelisk took a sack of coins off of his belt, stepped up to the throne, and humbly offered it to the king upon one knee. The king took it and gently opened it. He took out a coin. "Is this some sort of joke?" he said loudly. Baelisk felt weak.

"Your Majesty, I bring you the finest and rarest coins in all of Lavithius Valley."

Angered, the king threw down the pouch, and several copper and silver coins flew out of it as it hit the ground.