13. Kian
13
KIAN
T he assembly hall was filled with a hum of conversation when Kian entered with his mother and wife, but everyone fell into an immediate hush as they made their way to the podium.
The council members were already seated, with two chairs in the center reserved for him and his mother.
As Annani ascended the steps, everyone rose to their feet and dipped their heads in respect. They remained standing until she took her seat and motioned for them to sit down.
His mother had that effect on their people. While he commanded respect and obedience, Annani inspired reverence.
It was as it should be.
Kian was content with his role and the authority he carried, and he was glad that his mother inspired such devotion.
Syssi took her place in the front row, offering Kian an encouraging smile and a subtle nod. A part of him wished she would join him on the podium as a council member, but he knew she preferred to offer her support from the sidelines. She shied away from public service but was always glad to offer help with sage advice and polishing up speeches.
As the doors to the assembly hall closed with a soft thud, Shai caught Kian's eye, signaling that everyone was present.
Taking a deep breath, Kian rose to his feet, his gaze sweeping across the sea of expectant faces before him.
"Residents of the village. As you are surely aware, our community has been plagued by a series of thefts and acts of sabotage. These incidents, while seemingly minor on their own, represent a threat to the safety and unity we have worked so hard to build."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in. The hall was silent, all eyes fixed upon him. "We posted a message to the perpetrators on the clan's bulletin board, offering leniency if they stepped forward, but no one has done so, which left me no choice but to start a thorough investigation. It will involve every resident of our village over the age of ten—immortal, Kra-ell, and human. I understand that this may seem extreme, but I assure you that this decision was not taken lightly."
Kian's gaze swept the room, noting the mix of emotions on display—concern, curiosity, and, in some cases, fear.
"We cannot allow suspicion and mistrust to take root among us. By participating in this investigation, each of us reaffirms our commitment to our community and to one another."
He went on to outline the process, explaining how different groups would be questioned by different individuals.
"I want to emphasize that this is not about finding someone to blame. It's about understanding what's happening in our community and addressing any underlying issues that may have led to these incidents. Our goal is healing and unity, not punishment."
As Kian concluded his speech, a hand rose from the crowd. "Why isn't this being put to a vote?"
Kian had anticipated this question. "The issue, as it stands now, is not grave enough to justify a vote. We're dealing with the symptoms of a problem, not necessarily its root cause. Once we identify the perpetrator, we may discover that the underlying issue is much deeper than what we've witnessed so far. At that point, if more significant measures are needed, we will certainly bring it to a vote."
As the assembly settled back into attentive silence, Kian turned to Toven, gesturing for him to take the podium.
Toven stood, his presence commanding attention even without his glow. "As the community's most powerful compeller, I will be handling the questioning of our Kra-ell residents. Jade will coordinate the groups to be brought to me for questioning. We aim to make this process as efficient and respectful as possible."
As Toven stepped back, Annani rose and raised her hands. "My dear community. May the light of wisdom guide your paths, and the strength of unity fortify your spirits. In these times of uncertainty, remember that you are not alone. Each of you is vital and cherished, an essential thread in the tapestry the Fates carefully weave.
"May your days be filled with purpose and your nights with peaceful rest. May you find joy in the simple moments and courage in the face of adversity. Let compassion be your guide in all your dealings, and let love be the foundation of your actions.
"May the bonds that unite us grow ever stronger, and may our diversity turn into our greatest strength. Remember that even in the darkest of times, we are family. And family, above all else, endures. So, stand tall, stand together, and know that you are loved."
As applause erupted and everyone rose to their feet, Kian glanced at Syssi, who was clapping enthusiastically with tears shining in her eyes.
As far as speeches went, they could all learn a thing or two from his mother. She was the undisputed champion of inspirational messages, and she did that without bothering to prepare, which was incredible.
Annani waited for the clapping to subside. "Thank you. It has been some time since I have presided over a wedding, and evidently, I've missed delivering inspirational speeches."
A ripple of laughter spread through the audience, the tension in the room noticeably lessening.
Kian appreciated his mother's ability to work the crowd and put people at ease even in the most challenging situations.
"I will be helping in the investigation, hosting large groups of twenty-five clan members at a time in my house," Annani continued. "The questioning should take no more than a few minutes per group, but I expect some chatting, so it might take a little longer. Still, I expect to be done in one day." She smiled. "To sweeten the medicine, my Odus will prepare gift boxes with home-baked cookies for everyone attending."
This announcement was met with the most enthusiastic applause, and Kian couldn't help but smile and clap along. Leave it to his mother to turn an investigation into something people looked forward to.
Next, Arwel stood, his kind face scanning the crowd. "For those who may not know me, my name is Arwel. I'm a Head Guardian and an empath. I'll be meeting with all our human residents. We'll gather at Callie's restaurant tomorrow afternoon. I look forward to speaking with each of you."
Finally, Kalugal rose. "I will be questioning my men. It will take me only a few minutes to find out if the troublemaker is one of mine."