Ambassador of Angrääl, 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 Angrääl has 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 Dähl.” 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 Brääl of Maiden Shore, Queen Fasheil of Lamitia, King Halmara of Skalhalis, Lord Sialo Magrifal, ambassador of Angrääl, King Victis of Tarvansia, Prince Loniel of Sieren Bay,