EPISODE 9: THE EXPANSION ## CHAPTER 1: THE PETITIONERS They came from all directions. Three years after the alliance's founding, Dormund had become a beacon—a place where the chaos consuming Britain found some measure of order. Delegations arrived weekly, seeking admission to the coalition. "The Parisi from the eastern coast," Bran reported to the council. "Fleeing Saxon raids. They offer fishing rights and port access in exchange for protection." "The Setantii from the west," Rhiannon added. "Their lands are falling to Irish raiders. They have ironworks and smiths." "Even some southern British," Quintus noted. "Refugees from what remains of Roman governance. They bring administrative skills and trade connections." Marcus listened from his position at the council table—no longer leading, but still advising. The coalition he'd helped create had grown beyond anything he'd imagined. "We can't accept everyone," Caradoc warned. "Our resources are stretched thin as it is." "And turning them away creates enemies," Drest countered. "Better to have grateful allies than desperate rivals." The debate continued—the familiar tension between expansion and consolidation, between opportunity and risk. In the end, as always, they found a middle path. Conditional acceptance. New members would be provisional for one year, proving their commitment before full integration. Those who couldn't be immediately absorbed would receive aid and defensive support while they strengthened their own...