Rudolf kept one arm wrapped around his son, Conrad, while hisstressed mind tried to process what his guard captain had just said.
"Trade?" Rudolf asked, his rough voice flat.
He stared at Bernard as if the man had just spoken in tongues. "Did you just say forty ships, Bernard? Forty?"
"Yes, your Grace." Bernard nodded quickly.
"Bernard, you fucking idiot," Rudolf sighed heavily. "Forty ships sailing up our river is not a merchant caravan. That is a hostile invasion fleet... they are going to burn the port to the ground!"
"But... but the commander didn't draw his sword, my King!" Bernard argued nervously, waving his hands. "He is just standing on the pier with a giant smile on his face. He demanded to speak with you about taxes and grain!"
Conrad looked up at his father, "...the Iron Kingdom? Are they here to kill us before Emperor Louis can?"
