Chapter 3: The Council of Talyria

Aric and Tomas traveled for several more days before finally reaching the outskirts of Talyria. The city was much larger than Aric had imagined, with towering walls and a bustling market.

As they made their way towards the city gates, they were stopped by a group of guards.

"Halt!" one of the guards shouted. "State your business in Talyria."

Aric stepped forward and spoke calmly. "I am Aric, a traveler seeking an audience with the ruling council. I believe I can offer my skills and knowledge to help the kingdom in its time of need."

The guard eyed him suspiciously, then signaled for another guard to approach. "You'll need to be cleared by the council first," he said. "We'll escort you to the palace."

Aric nodded, and he and Tomas followed the guards through the city streets. As they walked, Aric took in the sights and sounds of Talyria. The people seemed unhappy and distrustful, and the air was thick with tension.

Finally, they arrived at the palace gates. The guards led them through the halls of the palace to a grand chamber where the council was meeting.

The council was made up of six nobles, each with their own agendas and interests. They looked at Aric with suspicion as he entered the room.

"Who are you?" one of the council members, a woman named Lady Althea, asked.

"I am Aric," he repeated. "I have come to offer my services to the kingdom."

The council members looked at each other uncertainly, then began to pepper Aric with questions about his qualifications and experience.

Aric answered each question confidently, drawing on his knowledge of economics and politics. He also mentioned Tomas, introducing him as a skilled fighter who could help defend the kingdom.

The council members seemed impressed by Aric's knowledge, but they were still hesitant to trust a stranger. "Why should we trust you?" one of them asked.

Aric thought for a moment, then spoke. "Because I have no personal stake in this kingdom. I am not here to advance my own interests, but to serve the greater good. I believe that with my skills and your guidance, we can turn Talyria into a prosperous and stable kingdom."

The council members considered his words, then began to discuss among themselves. After several tense moments, they finally came to a decision.

"Very well," Lady Althea said. "We will grant you a trial period. You will work with us for the next month, and if we see that you are truly committed to our cause, we will consider your proposal."

Aric nodded, feeling a sense of relief. He knew that this was his chance to prove himself.

Over the next month, Aric worked closely with the council members, using his knowledge and expertise to advise them on matters of trade and governance. He also helped Tomas train the kingdom's soldiers, preparing them for the possibility of war.

At the end of the month, the council members convened to discuss Aric's proposal. After much debate, they finally came to a decision.

"We have decided to appoint you as our advisor," Lady Althea said. "We believe that you have proven your worth, and we are willing to give you a chance to help us lead this kingdom."

Aric felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. He had come to this world with nothing but his wits and his determination, and he had managed to gain the trust of the ruling council.

As he looked around the chamber, he saw the council members nodding in agreement, and he knew that he had finally found his place in this world.