The Seven Elder Councilmen (or Council of Seven)

"The war against the Philosteans goes much as expected. Alhazal's ruthless beheading of the entire ruling class of the city of Hilostan has had the desired effect. Philostea's nobility is paralyzed by fear. Rather than find strength by grouping together, they cower in their towers, secluded and vulnerable."

Rivus's voice echoed through the ancient stone council chamber. Countless shadowy alcoves and a myriad of seemingly random protrusions caught the sound and twisted it, creating a disturbing reverberation that unsettled the uninitiated. Those in attendance that evening seemed indifferent.

"And what of our troops?" Arkun, leader of the Council of Seven, High Priest and Prelate of the God of Yadis spoke in a whisper, but such was his influence that he was answered immediately.

"Morale is high, Prelate," said Jakkra. "The supply lines are secure. Philostea will be ours within a fortnight."

Arkun smiled. It was a cold, calculated expression that was shared by the five other men seated at the Table of Trial. "Excellent. Our conquest of the neighboring kingdoms proceeds on schedule."

Conversation ceased as the sound of a door opening resounded through the chamber. Six candle flames wavered as the air currents in the room shifted, causing the shadows of the men seated before them to dance across the Table. The awkward gait of the newcomer announced his identity even before he emerged from one of the alcoves.

"Good of you to finally join us, Elder Mascus," Arkun said as the seventh member of the council stepped from the shadows into the meager candle light. Mascus did not reply immediately. He shuffled to his place at the Table, dragging his right foot along behind him after each halting step. Arkun stifled a frown at the display. Mascus saw it nonetheless. The council's spy master missed nothing. He straightened immediately.

"I am sorry, Prelate. My mind is somewhat preoccupied and I was still in character." Mascus reached his seat. He placed a hand on the rune carved into his place at the Table and closed his eyes. There was a slight pause and then the candle behind his chair flared to life. Having passed the Trial, he sat. The other council members regarded him expectantly.

When nothing further was forthcoming, Arkun was forced to prod him. "Since you were so late in answering the call to council, I assume you have something to report?"

Mascus grinned in spite of the implied threat. "Indeed, Prelate. I have just returned with a pair of our Eyes. We have found One."

No one moved. For a long moment there was absolute silence.

Arkun broke the stillness. "Is it true? You have found a Navia?"

"It is."

"Who is she?"

"Her name is Debora. She is sixteen, the eldest daughter of the King of Mezzite."

"Glory to our god," Issikul said. The Loremaster made the symbol of the god of Yadis. "The alignment of the stars was sure. The omens were correct. The timing is exact. The prophecy of Rebund begins to be fulfilled. A Navia has awakened."

Mascus raised a hand and shook his head. "Not awakened. Not yet. Her powers are still latent."

Arkun frowned. "If she is not yet awakened, how can you be certain she is Navia."

"I tested her myself."

"That was unwise," Arkun said. "We cannot afford to be revealed."

"I am not stupid, Prelate. One does not question the touch of a master hypnotist performing for the royal court."

Mascus bordered on insult, but Arkun let it go.

"I'm not familiar with Mezzite. Tell me more about it." Arkun looked to Rivus and Ahzim. Rivus's position as Master of Protocol for Yadis required him to know all of the surrounding kingdoms. Ahzim was responsible for overseeing the Council's considerable business interests.

"A minute kingdom located in the Merrizan Mountains," Rivus said.

"Her main export is wool," added Ahzim, "But her true value comes from the quality of her lumber. Mezzite cedar is the best in the world."

"If Mezzite is so small and prosperous, why have we not taken her?"

"Small, true," Jakkra said, "But the terrain is a significant hindrance. The loss of life in assaulting her outweighs the benefits of her subjugation."

"There is the added difficulty of Ashmell," Rivus continued. "Mezzite does a substantial trade with the Empire. They are on friendly terms. An attack on Mezzite would likely result in the aid of Ashmell."

"The geographic approach to Mezzite is much easier from the Ashmell side," said Jakkra. "Reinforcements would complicate matters."

Akrun held up a hand to forestall further discussion. "The difficulties involved in taking Mezzite are apparent. The question that remains is this: How do we awaken our Navia while assuring that she will fight on our side?"

There was a pause as the council thought through the puzzle.

"If I may, Prelate?"

Akrun nodded his assent. Elamir, First Advisor and Voice of the Seven Elder Councilmen to the kingdom of Yadis rose to his feet. "I think it is time that Alhazal threw a party."

(to be continued...)