Lyros P.O.V.

“It’s been a while since I have been in the Grand Chamber. I wonder what is it that requires a high summon?!” I said to the guard.

“Forgive me High Prelate, but I am not privy to this information, please come in.” The guard politely answered as he ushered me in.

The magnificence of the golden doors has never escaped me. For the most part the opulence here dwarfs just about anything on the three continents. As I entered, besides the usual ornaments of intricate detail, lampstands and the gigantic carpet with a phoenix centerpiece; the entire High Chamber was present. They had all been summoned.

“High Prelate Lyros pays his respects, High Master” I said as I bowed.

Every single member was present. All thirteen seats. All with their cloaks and masks.

“I have always wondered who they were.” An idea that always sprung to mind while in this place.

Truth be told, it was a great system, only the ones within the true inner circle knew, who was who. To my knowledge only the High Master and the High Zigur knew everybody. Then again, as high as I am I am still just a prelate.

The High Master’s voice snapped me out from my contemplation.

“You are here for matters of great importance. First, from this moment on all discussions here are not to be revealed to other order members or outsiders at any level.”

Being in the center carpet surrounded by the seats, our leaders, is already a heavy pressure. With this news, this meeting was not only important, but it was key.

I was startled.

“Second, from this moment forward you are appointed as High Priest. The corresponding rituals and proceedings notwithstanding.”

I was shocked again.

“Third, your master was murdered while performing the full moon rites in the last cycle.”

Once more, I was stunned. I knew the importance of the ritual that was being carried out. Somehow, he was murdered during the rite. Even more, this was inside the Eternal Moon. What is going on? I was visibly shaken not able to utter a word.

“No need to speak Lyros, I understand. The floor is opened.” The High Master said in a sober tone.

“The killing weapon was of Augirian design, personalized workmanship never seen before, a blade. There was a capstone with the blood for blood inscription.” The First seat said.

“Possibility of impersonation?” The Thirteen seat asked.

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“None. This was at the heart of our second main altar, within our security area. On witness reports, there were two attackers. Chances of the intervention of others is highly likely. Zoer was overpowered in the fight. Let me state this again, he was overpowered.” The Fourth Seat told everyone.

“Patriarch level threats! This is a declaration of war!” The Sixth seat said angrily.

“The Andurin know. I knew the matter could not be hidden indefinitely.” The First seat said calmly.

The Sixth Seat looked shaken by the statement, his hands were quivering.

“Not your fault, this was a possibility. This decision was made taking this into account.” The Fourth Seat explained.

“How’s the prisoner by the way? The Seventh Seat asked.

“Even if it takes a lifetime, he will yield.” The Sixth Seat answered with eagerness.

“What happened with the attendees? And a more pressing matter is the death of the sacrifice.” The Tenth seat said.

“Many were killed by the intruders, others by the blast radius caused by Zoer’s fight. The sacrifice survived. They not only killed Zoer but made it out alive.” The Fourth detailed once more.

“Why didn’t you say that first? The Seventh Seat said filled with anger.

“It’s a lot to take in, almost impossible to believe, yet here we are.” The Fourth spoke again.

“In short, two high elders of the Andurin powerful enough to bypass defenses and walk off unscathed descended here and wreaked havoc. What now?” Asked the Ninth Seat.

Everyone looked at the High Master on the high seat in the circle.

“The High Zigur will be in command. All of you coordinate accordingly. This matter will not be disclosed to anyone, suppress it by any means necessary for as long as possible. In the meantime, it is time for a hunt.” The High Master ordered.

“Since this is war, let’s send out our hunting wolves.” The Second Seat suggested.

“Those rabid dogs? They crave for power as much as they do for blood. They are uncontrollable.” The Fifth Seat said questioningly.

“Just sent them on a mission they cannot return from. Since the Andurians came here it is high time we go to them.” The First Seat said.

“Lord Lyros gather your men and carry out this order. Summon the Kazardim at your discretion.” Stated the High Master.

“Yes High Master.” I said bowing one more time.

“You are dismissed Lord Lyros, congratulations on your post. Welcome to the Grand Chamber.” The High Master said stoically.

Unbelievable, what turn of events. As great as it is for me, now I have to deal with the dreaded Kazardim. Cannot be too impatient.

“Lord Malgrun giveth, Lord Malgrun taketh.”

I turned to leave with a glint in my eyes.

“What about the Zurian attack? I don’t believe it is a mere coincidence that both things happened nearly at the same time.” Said the Eight Seat.

“We are investigating the matter. They said they found a self-awakened follower of Zur within our domains.” The Fourth elaborated.

I slowed my steps to catch as much of the conversation as possible.

“Can you believe that? That hasn’t happened in centuries!” The Third Seat replied.

“What we know right now is that a cave mine in the Forest of Andara was found. Many of the resources have already been extracted. The possibility of the awakened story being a little bogus is great.” Said the Ninth Seat.

“I will look into it in detail.” Retorted the Fourth Seat.

“Shall we attack them as well, covertly of course? Asked the Eight Seat.

“One thing at a time. Less they truly put a united front. We don’t want to recall our forces from the Central Plains yet.” Said the High Master.

“Bring the forces from the Central Continent? The Tenth Seat voiced sounded off in disbelief.

I was leaving the Hall when I heard that last question just as the door closed behind me.

Not like I would go and run tail and spill the beans to anybody. I was now part of the inner circle.

“Praise Malgrun for a bloody blessing!” I said.

I had a lot of thoughts rummaging within me. Lots of planning and cunning associates to pressurize while extending a helping hand to key individuals outside the Eternal Moon Kingdom.

The Zurians attacked as well? What about the truce? A pincer maneuver? No matter how I looked at it, we are heading for bloodshed. If I play my cards right….

I smiled broadly as I left.