Sidqa of Ascalon is a mercane tied to Union who spent eleven years among the frost giants as Hrolf Skin-Counter (Hrolf Cuentapieles). Defeated at the watchtower, he became the company’s partner in taking the Halls of Frost.
| Type | Character (SGL) |
| Houses of the Cycle | ♑ · 🪨 |
| Spanish entry | Sidqa de Ascalón — Hrolf Cuentapieles |
History
A diadem let him wear another skin; he spoke of a giantess, Gunnhild. The company beat him and his patrol of two giants and six humans at the watchtower, and he surrendered. His blue-tinged hands and steamless breath had betrayed him. Detections found him neither evil nor charmed.
He bought information from Azidem, opened the way to the Halls, carried the company in hidden in his sled, and took command after the shaman died. He had reserved the ice seed beforehand and received it with its magic extinguished.
Seal and plan
His seal comes from Union’s vaults (banking neutrality); a passage behind a watchtower pillar lets him leave and resupply, and he communicates with other planes. The company did not sign his magical contract; Lem distinguished the seal’s power from its validity in Sogol.
He wants to restore the forges, bring workers and found a trading branch, claiming the stronghold without a deed. He needs Burkestein’s authorization, protection of the Road of Mertylmane and about a year. He offers credit, not the monopoly asked of him, and would sell to all; the king asks whether that includes his enemies.
The augury
Asked whether an alliance with him would serve the region’s peace, the oracle answered no, without calling him evil or false. The company entered with him but did not sign.
Current state
While the companions went to Karlstorf and the Threshold of Aries, Sidqa organized the occupation. Burkestein wants to meet him and secure the road before approving the concession.
Open questions
- Whether he will hold on under harassment is uncertain.
- A link with the Giants of Ur, who also count strangely, is noted but not established.