The roaring clamor of the stadium ceases as the office door closes. Volarak sighs, savoring the silence for a moment. She steps over to her selection of decanters, fingers trailing across the polished brass of the counter before stopping at the third drink in the line. With perfect professionalism, she pours a quarter pint of the liquid into two expertly shaped glasses. Sitting down on a handcrafted chair, she extends the second glass to Einar. The emperor accepts the drink, motioning for his official taster. An insulting policy, but a sensible one, recent history considered.

Through the soundproofed window, the allied generals watch a duel. Two young Kyrie dart through the air of the arena; feinting, parrying, and diving. This year’s applicants have been some of the most promising in a while, though the acceptance rate will still likely be below 4%. Even with the mainland’s added demands, it is important to only accept truly qualified warriors into The Association.

Einar breaks the silence. “You say that these games are hosted every year?”

Volarak smiles slightly, lowering her glass and glancing back at her patron. “That is correct, though this is the first year we’ve hosted interviews outside of Haukeland itself. I’m glad the guilds were able to finish this arena in time to bring the festivities to the mainland.”

“Impressive. It is nice to speak with another Valkyrie who can actually appreciate more refined forms of martial artistry.”

Outside, one of the contestants falters. His wing, clearly sprained, gives out during a swooping lunge and his blade clumsily bounces off that of his opponent, who deftly pushes him further off balance. Circling downward and landing roughly, the first Kyrie whirls around. He makes one final desperate jab, but his blade is knocked out of his grip as it is parried once more. With a simple and clean motion, his opponent lands, scoring a clean hit straight into his vest. Her sporting blade leaves a slim but scarlet tear, as blood leaks from the superficial wound.

Volarak marks down the name of the victor. She will make a fine Associate.

The Associates of Volarak are available in the Associates of Volarak army expansion. Pre-order now for a May 2027 release!