since
With us over Northgate to raid the Kingdom, fifty years back. Ended when Henry, king that was, settled matters, thanks be."He stopped. Looked down. When he looked up her eyes were on him, the King's on her. She watched Harald's face a moment, then went on.
"Is that why it's the Empire, not the plains, you've had to fight all these years?"
Harald waited for her to continue.
"I mean, they're farmers, like us. They want the same land. Your Westkin don't."
He looked her full in the face.
"His Majesty wants wisdom, hasn't far to look."
"But since the lady Anne is fair as well as wise and we have matters of moment to discuss, best we continue without the distraction of her beauty. Lady mine?"
Anne rose, nodded to both men, departed. They sat silent a while.