The diplomatic team, somehow managed to talk to the Doge of the SRR to ask for help about lifting the blockade. From the looks on their faces when they returned, it was obvious that the meeting had not gone well.

"I regret to report" the halfling representative of the group said. "That the Doge insisted we agree to the following before sending his ships to lift the blockade.

One - Half the Central Quarter of the City - the southern half we presume

Two - Access to the Old Forest to cut down the trees they need for their immediate needs. Apparently our hardwoods are more .... suitable to shipbuilding than their softwoods.

Three - The druids are to agree to supply the SRR with enough saplings to start their own hardwood forest.

Four - A one off payment of a million gold pieces. Presumably for 'services rendered'.

It was either that or let the populace here starve. I want it put on record that we accepted to these terms .... but under duress."

There was an explosion of anger and outrage from the assembled Lords and other representatives of Duirt and Rani was immediately beset by questions.

"Yes .. we did try to negotiate him down but .... every time we tried, he kept piling it on. All we could do was to give in before he demanded the entire Forest again."

"No ... to be honest, I don't think we can trust the Doge ... I am of the opinion that he and his Council are milking this situation for as much as they can get. However I do not mean any disrespect to the Silverite Houses. I have already spoken with House Atianna on the matter"

"I ..... can't speak for the Ambassador at this stage. She left immediately to inform the Druid Circle of this outcome. I am not yet aware of their reaction."

"I did the best I could. If it your wish and the Ambassador's that I resign I will do so"

It was after that she stepped down ignoring any other questions flung at her and melded into the crowd.