We all knew that HD and Antiqualia were Lurian proxies/allies. We've known that since the two realms were created.
It's actually more that outside diplomacy has forced us to move in that direction. We wouldn't have near the close relationship we have now with Luria if the war with Astrum hadn't dragged on, and even then we don't trust them. The Alliance with Swordfell was partially to prevent Luria from betraying us and declaring war to give Westfell (the new realm to be formed from Astrum) Shomrak.
