“Lord Theopolou, your highness,” cried a herald stationed beside the door.
The room went silent as all eyes fell on Theopolou. He paused a moment, then made his way to the King’s table, where an empty seat at the king’s right side awaited him. Everyone rose and bowed. Theopolou returned the gesture, and took his seat.
“Our kitchen has been preparing a few elf dishes just for you and your people,” said Lousis, cheerfully. “Though, from what I've heard, The Frog's Wishbone may far outshine what I have to offer. Lord Ganflin prides himself in his elf cuisine.”
“Yes,” said Theopolou. “Linis mentioned it. If ever I have the time, I would like to explore your city.”
Just then a servant ran up to the King and whispered into his ear.
“It would seem King Halmara has arrived,” said Lousis, a look of concern on his face. “Along with a representative from Angraal.”
“Will you receive him?” asked Theopolou.
“If he travels with King Halmara, I have little choice,” Lousis replied angrily. “To deny him entrance would be seen as an insult. Skalhalis is an important port, and nearly as large as Althetas. And King Halmara carries much influence in the council.”
“Prepare them a seat,” Lousis ordered the servant. “And show them in. Then have quarters prepared.”
The servant scurried off.
“So it would seem Angraalis making no secret of their intent,” said Theopolou.
“It could be worse than you think,” said Lousis. “Valshara is within King Halmara’s boarders. If he took part in the siege, then the council meeting may be a useless gesture. The cities to the south will certainly side with Skalhalis, leaving the coast split in two. Then we will be caught between the elves of the Steppes and Skalhalis.”
“I hope to sway the elves from their present course, once my business here is concluded,” said Theopolou. “If I am successful, then the situation will not be as dire.”
“And if you fail…” Lousis' words faded as two figures stepped inside the hall.
The first was dressed in a fine blue silk shirt, open at the neck, with silver ruffles, matching trousers, and polished, black leather boots. A golden scabbard hung from a black belt. The hilt of the sword was interlaced with gold and ivory, and crowned with a blue sapphire. His short, sandy blond hair was oiled and combed back neatly. Though clearly a man of some years, his tan skin and stout build gave him a somewhat youthful appearance.
At his side, stood a short, thin man dressed in a plain, black cotton robe tied at the waist by a thin, white rope. Theopolou guessed him to be in his early thirties, yet his jet-black hair was already thinning. Though not strong in stature, his piercing blue eyes shone brightly and could be noticed even from across the room. This and his confident strides gave him a commanding presence. He followed close behind as they approached the table.
King Lousis stood up and bowed. “King Halmara. I welcome you.”
Halmara smiled. “Thank you, my old friend. I have missed your company.” He stepped aside and motioned toward his companion. “I present Lord Sialo Magrifal, Ambassador of Angraal, and servant of the Reborn King.”
“You dress oddly for a lord,” remarked Lousis. “Do you not?”
“If my attire offends your highness, I will change,” said Sialo, bowing low.
“Not at all,” Lousis replied. “Please, be welcome. A place has been set for you both. My home is at your disposal.”
They bowed and took their seats at the far left end of the table.
“I think I will be glad to have you in the council tomorrow,” said Lousis. “Your support will be crucial.”
“I will help, if I can,” Theopolou replied. “Though my experience dealing with humans is quite limited, I am well-versed in the nuances of diplomacy.”
Lousis lifted his cup. “A skill I will need in abundance. As for me, I have never enjoyed the subterfuge and misdirection of the nobles. My father was the politician. I am far to plain spoken for my own good.”
Theopolou laughed quietly. “I regard that as an admirable trait. I may speak the language of politics, but I prefer simple truth.”
Lousis chuckled. “I doubt we'll hear much of that tomorrow.”
Theopolou excused himself from the banquet after another hour. He felt the eyes of Sialo Magrifal following him as he left. Two elves accompanied him and insisted they guard his door. At first, he protested, but seeing their determination, relented. They wished for this business to be done. With every day that passed, the Dark Knight's grip on his kin would strengthen.
The darkness closed in as he allowed himself to drift into a dreamless slumber. His final thought was of Sialo Magrifal. He knew his arrival was a bad omen.
Chapter 24
Theopolou was wakened at dawn, when Mohanisi arrived at his door.
“What did you think of the city?” asked Theopolou.
“Humans have come a long way,” said Mohanisi, approvingly. “Their skills at building are more advanced than I would have guessed. In fact, many of the temples are quite stunning.”
“And the people?” he asked.
“Not what I expected.” He took a seat. “Though some are clearly not accepting of us, in large they are very hospitable and kind, particularly Lord Ganflin. Have you met him?”
Theopolou shook his head. “Not yet. Though I am sure I will soon enough.”
“I heard from the others, that a representative of Angraalhas arrived,” said Mohanisi. “How do you think this will affect the council?”
“Not well. It may be that we may be fighting on two fronts if my mission to the Steppes fails. King Lousis believes the cities south of Skalhalis will rally to King Halmara’s banner. And it is quite possible he was involved in the siege of Valshara.”
There was a knock at the door and a young servant boy entered.
“King Lousis summons you to the council, Lord Theopolou,” said the boy, timidly.
“Very well,” said Theopolou. “Wait for me outside.” He rose to his feet. “Go to the Temple of Ayliazarah. There you will find a woman named Maybell. I need you to bring her here. Tell her you are a friend of Linis and she will come.”
Mohanisi nodded. “I will do as you request. I wish you fortune today.”
Mohanisi left and Theopolou got dressed. The servant boy led him through the labyrinth of corridors to the east end of the manor to a broad oak door, guarded by two soldiers. The soldiers snapped to attention as Theopolou opened the door and entered the room. The council chamber was a fifty by fifty-foot hall. The walls to his left and right were covered with carved reliefs of various ships and sea creatures. At the far end stood a dozen pedestals with marble busts, each bearing a gold crown. The center of the room was dominated by a round table and fifteen chairs. The kings and queens had already arrived. Ertik was seated at the left hand side of King Lousis and Theopolou's chair stood empty at his right.
“Ah, Lord Theopolou,” called Lousis. “Now we can begin.”
Theopolou took his seat and looked out over the table.
Lousis stood. “My lords and ladies, this is Lord Theopolou. As many of you know, he is here to represent the elf nations. You have been introduced to Ertik, representing the Order of Amon Dahl.” He raised his arm in a grand sweeping motion. “These are the rulers of the western kingdoms. Starting to my right, King Stanis of Calderia, King Tredford of Yuledan, Queen Lilian of Farthing, King Braal of Maiden Shore, Queen Fasheil of Lamitia, King Halmara of Skalhalis, Lord Sialo Magrifal, ambassador of Angraal, King Victis of Tarvansia, Prince Loniel of Sieren Bay, King Jeris of Wisterton, Queen Illirial of the Saraf's Jewel, and King Tranton of Red Cliff. On behalf of all the kings and queens of the twelve cities, we bid you welcome.” He took his seat. “I think you all know by now why I have called this council.”