Drachen
The entrance hall was unusually bereft of visitors. Tall, panelled windows lined the walls, stretching up to high ceilings. Plush leather couches formed a waiting area for visitors, but the centre of the space was left vacant.
The massive structure boasted three levels—the ground floor held the workspaces of employees, concealed behind a panelled wall.
The Council conducted Inquiries in a series of court chambers on the second floor.
The third floor comprised of several function rooms serving as event spaces, but it also gave access to the Announcement platform.
Norrix’s office was well-appointed. The space was dominated by a bureau-style desk, and Norrix sat behind it, engrossed in research.
A pair of bookcases filled with reference books on a plethora of topics were the backdrop to the setting.
The long robes Norrix wore during Inquiries were hanging from a hook on the right-hand wall.
“I’m not. But I have a matter I want to discuss with you.”
“What is it?” Norrix quirked a brow as he gestured to the seats before the desk.
“It is a sensitive matter. I trust I can rely on your discretion.”
“Of course.”
Drachen closed Norrix’s office door before taking a seat. He willed a grave expression onto his features and took a deep breath before speaking.
“My Broodling has revealed a plan to violate the Order of Protection.” Norrix raised his eyebrows in surprise. “My efforts to dissuade him have been unsuccessful. I have come to seek the Council’s magnanimity should the worst happen.”
Norrix leaned back in his chair and steepled his fingers. Drachen’s nerves re-emerged as Norrix’s expression hardened.
“This is concerning, Drachen. You are aware that your Broodling’s history precludes him from leniency.” The seriousness of Norrix’s tone made Drachen feel like he was in an Inquiry. He took another fortifying deep breath.
“Killian is ungovernable, and I understand that his Ending will be the only acceptable punishment for such a crime. However, I am hopeful that my service to the Council, as well as my disclosure of this information, will be taken into consideration when my Punition is given.” Drachen kept his voice level, despite his pounding heartbeat.
Revealing Killian’s plan was a risk—it didn’t guarantee the Council’s mercy. But he trusted Norrix far more than he trusted his Broodling. Drachen’s priority was ensuring his own survival should Leseldh’s Ending be tied back to Killian.
“I cannot make that decision on my own.”
“I understand. It was my hope that you would take the matter to Representative Oake on my behalf.”
Oake was the Vampire Representative in the Council of Noctis.
The Representative of each species acted as a legislator, delegate and disciplinarian on matters pertaining to their kind.
Oake was said to be the oldest Vampire in Noctis, and he’d doled out Punitions to Drachen in two separate Inquiries.
If a third were to come to pass, Drachen needed an influential ally in his corner, and Norrix’s standing with Oake was unparalleled.
“Given the circumstances, I think negotiation would be required. What could you offer in exchange?” For your life, went unspoken.
“All I could offer would be one of Eryn’s unclaimed Creations.” Drachen bowed his head in supplication, throwing his lifeline into the water before Norrix.
“Two Creations. Three lives in total, for Killian’s three transgressions.”
Drachen fought the urge to scoff in reply. “So be it.”
“I can make no guarantees, but I think this is a fair offer. Do you know who the target is?”
Almost there. Drachen’s skills as an actor were being put to the test, and it was time for the final act. He dissembled his excitement and forced his features into the portrait of solemnity.
“He is seeking Leseldh Idthraki’s Ending.”
Norrix’s sharp intake of breath telegraphed his surprise. Although he and Leseldh were from different Idthraki branches, Drachen’s plan hinged upon Norrix’s loyalty to the bloodline.
“This is most disturbing, Drachen. Leseldh will be performing a Resonance Ceremony later this evening. Do you think Killian will choose this event to strike?”
Drachen remembered the flurry of activity on the third floor and didn’t have to feign his surprise when he realised that his rival was the cause of the commotion.
He realised that his plan could be set in motion as early as tonight.
His nervousness resurfaced and mingled with his growing excitement.
“He would not let that chance slip through his fingers.”
“Then I must act quickly.” Norrix rose and collected his suit jacket from the back of his chair.
“Can I be of assistance?”
“I will seek an audience with Representative Oake immediately. Perhaps it is best if you are not present for the Ceremony. But if you can ward Killian off, please do so.”
“I will, Inquisitor.” Drachen bowed again as Norrix swept from the room.
You will give rise to triumph. Drachen’s mantra reverberated in his mind. Separating himself from the Ceremony worked in his favour, but if Killian planned to strike against Leseldh, he didn’t intend on intervening.