(Third-person perspective)
Becoming a paladin is not an honor that every noble can attain; it is the privilege of the elite. Although any noble may aspire to become a paladin, to achieve this lofty status, one must surpass the skill level of the most outstanding paladins within the temple. This is no simple feat; it requires extraordinary skill, unwavering determination, and the heart of a true warrior.
The prestigious title of Paladin was reserved for the elite, and Aermir was determined to uphold its prestige. He resolved never to allow anyone who did not meet the rigorous standards to enter the ranks of Paladins, thereby diminishing this exalted status. To ensure that only the most outstanding individuals could attain the title of Paladin, he established a strict initiation process. Aermir invited Harrick, a highly respected figure among the Paladins, to oversee this rigorous combat trial. Those aspiring to join the Paladin ranks had to confront Harick in battle, enduring his punitive blows without complaint.
Only those who demonstrated unwavering resolve and indomitable strength in the face of Harrick's relentless attacks were considered qualified. This selection method not only ensured that the most tenacious candidates could be promoted to paladins, but also solidified Harrick's position as the second-in-command among the paladins—a position he rightfully earned through his undisputed martial prowess and steadfast dedication.
Smalljon Umber was elevated to a renowned paladin without having to undergo Harick's rigorous trials, which filled the paladins attending the celebration with both awe and a sense of uncertainty. Although Smalljon Umber was indeed spared a fierce physical confrontation with Harrick, Aermir still harbored doubts about the outcome of such a duel.
Physical strength alone cannot determine the outcome of a battle. The combination of strategy, skill, adaptability, and strength is the key to victory, but there is a big difference between the two.
Harrick is a warrior loyal to Aermir's cause, relentlessly pursuing excellence in martial arts. He trains rigorously every day, pushing his body to its limits. His determination to prove himself the rightful second-in-command is evident to all.
To support Harrick's rise to glory, Aermir made tremendous efforts. He used his knowledge of herbalism and arcane magic to create simple elixirs tailored to Harrick's needs to enhance his physical abilities. These elixirs, combined with rigorous training, did indeed improve Harrick's strength.
However, Smalljon Umber's sudden burst of power, achieved by awakening his latent magic, set him apart. His power surged to an astonishing 18.9, demonstrating the potential hidden within him.
Just as everyone was beginning to resume their celebrations, a messenger from Moon drift port suddenly burst into the party. His face was flushed, and he spoke rapidly, delivering the devastating news of the Aermir's warship. The messenger did not simply recount the events; he embellished the sailors' descriptions with vivid details, igniting the flames of anger in the hearts of the North lords.
The lords of the North were known for their frankness and honesty, never concealing their emotions. Now, their expressions revealed a deep-seated rage. Greatjon Umber, known for his fiery temper, was the first to unleash his fury upon hearing the news. His voice echoed through the hall, hurling insults at the Three Sisters, his words filled with disdain.
"These effeminate hypocrites! Who among us doesn't know they're nothing but pirates who attacked our ships, and now they dare to flaunt it openly? What's worse, they even dare to insult the Druid and the Old Gods!" Greatjon's anger was palpable; he threw his goblet aside, his voice echoing with indignation.
As he roared, he posed a resounding question, a question that hung heavily in the air, demanding an answer from everyone present, "Are we just going to sit here and let this go? Are we going to let them run rampant over our heads?"
Greatjon Umber's impassioned speech resonated strongly with the other lords of the North. As his words echoed throughout the hall, a wave of collective anger surged toward the assembled nobles. Indignation and rage welled up within them, fueling their fury.
A growing chorus of agreement with Greatjon's words echoed his fervent resolve. The lords of the North were unanimously enraged; they would no longer tolerate the Three Sisters ' audacious piracy and their insult to the Druid and the Old Gods. Clearly, action was imminent; the room buzzed with determination as everyone resolved to respond to this transgression.
Lord of Winterfell, Warden of the North, Eddard Stark rose from his seat. His voice, firm and resolute, pierced the rising clamor of the hall. Silence fell over the room; all eyes were on him, for his words carried immense weight in the North.
"My lords and ladies," Lord Stark, his tone solemn and authoritative, "I understand our anger, and I understand the insult we have suffered at the hands of the Three Sisters. But let us not rashly enter into conflict. The North has always valued honor, and we will respond to this provocation with honor."
He continued, "We should send a delegation to the Three Sisters, led by a diplomat. We will demand compensation for the damage to our ships, and most importantly, a formal apology for the offense against the Druid and the Old Gods. If the Three Sisters refuse, we will consider further action."
With the situation tense and Lord Stark's efforts to quell the unrest seemingly futile, Aermir stepped forward, her voice firm yet full of conviction.
"My lord, I have the utmost respect for you, but I find myself disagreeing with you on a crucial issue."
The hall was silent, and all eyes were fixed on Aermir, completely absorbed.
"In our North, honor has never been our core principle. Our core values have always been protecting our land, our people, and our revered Old Gods. Honor is the result of our heroic deeds, not the goal itself."
He paused, allowing his words to penetrate the hearts of the gathered people. They began to nod in agreement, acknowledging the profound truth in his words.
"Think of the stories of our ancestors. Bran the Builder built the Wall not for honor, but to protect the North. Jon the Brave did not drive the Wildlings raiders from our land for honor, but for the safety of our people. Even Torrhen Stark, when faced with dragonfire, did not kneel for honor, but for the survival of our people. In the North, our virtues have two aspects: courage and survival; honor is not among them."
A surge of fervent energy swept through the hall, and cries for war rose once more. Aermir's words had ignited the fighting spirit of the North, and the prospect of defending their land and heritage resonated deeply in everyone's hearts.
Aermir's enthusiasm would not be quelled; he continued to stand firm in his position.
"My lord, we all acknowledge your good intentions and unwavering commitment to the North. But let us not forget that they insulted me, not you. They dared to strike me, and I will not allow these cowardly fools to slap my other cheek so easily."
Aermir's impassioned words brought the atmosphere in the Moat Cailin Hall to a fever pitch.
"Diplomacy is a noble path, but it requires the honorable participation of both sides. Cowards and timid men will not heed the words of diplomats; they will only respond with force. My lord, I pursue justice, not empty diplomacy."
The lords present erupted in enthusiastic approval. However, Lord Stark offered a more measured perspective.
"We cannot rashly start a war with the Three Sisters before consulting Lord Arryn."
Aermir quickly interjected, his tone leaving no room for argument.
"My lord, let us not forget how Lord Arryn responded when we confronted him about his people's piracy. Was the betrayal of the Three Sisters merely a coincidence? Has Jon Arryn ever taken decisive action against his own people? Or, as he often does, hastily demanded irrefutable evidence while covering things up?"