Artemisia Recoyne arrives in Amaurn Tor, mountain fortress of Baratoum

Kamachrichthyon flew to the high plateau and set down. The imperial princess dismounted and walked into the quiet fortress.

The halls were ancient and dank, torchlight created pools in the stretching darkness. Finally she stood before him, lounging casually on a throne. She raised her chin and regarded him quietly.

Baratoum sneered. "Welcome, princess. Amourn Tor is an ancient stronghold, from long before Almecca was united, forgotten, by most. You'll find its accomodations less opulent than you're used to."

She stepped closer. "It needs a great deal of renovation, but the location is ideal, high vantages, only two points of approach, easily defended. Spacious enough to house a formidable host."

He was quiet a moment. "You are your mother's daughter, aren't you. Good. I've been raising a host, slowly, quietly. We must spin spiderwebs if we're to challenge Almecca. Let us discuss the future."