Malachi scowled. “It hardly matters. We can’t take the chance.” He leaned back in his chair, eyes gazing roofward, as if seeking guidance from his stony predecessors. “Is it wrong of me to wish that Ebigail were still here?”

“Yes,” said Viktor. “Because she’d have gambled Eskavord’s fate. You won’t.”

“You’re right, of course. You’re always right.” Malachi planted his elbows on the table. A little of his weariness fell away. “Under the circumstances, I think it best I assume the position of First Councillor . . . with your assent, Josiri.”

“Hadon is sure to object,” Josiri replied.

Malachi sighed. For a man on the brink of power unseen since the time of kings, he seemed inexpressibly unhappy, but also seized of purpose. Josiri knew the latter feeling well. Not all victories were happy ones. In fact, both Malachi and Viktor seemed uncomfortable, but then Josiri had despaired too much at his own reflection that morning to hold them to higher standards.

“A problem for tomorrow, or the day after,” said Malachi. “Whether I like it or not, I have to deal with the situation before me, which is that my only two allies will ride south as soon as they leave this chamber. If I’m to spend the future arguing with the elder Lord Akadra, I’d sooner do so from a position of authority.” Malachi offered a wan smile. “Honestly, I’m surprised you’re not already out the door.”

The words, doubtlessly meant in support, only deepened Josiri’s despondency. “If Malatriant really has taken Eskavord, haste on my part will change nothing.”

“But a little urgency on ours might change everything.” Malachi’s tone hardened. His posture set like steel. “My first declaration is that all accusations levied against the Trelan family are dismissed and all crimes pardoned. You may be Josiri Trelan again – and not Josiri Akadra – without fear of consequence. My second decree is that Lord Viktor Akadra, the Council’s champion, has full authority to requisition whatever forces he believes necessary to address the situation in Eskavord.”

“Good,” said Viktor. “Saves me being declared traitor twice in one week.”

Which meant, Josiri decided, that he’d already determined to take such a course. “Thank you.”

“For nothing,” said Malachi. “If this is Malatriant, what has begun in Eskavord will cross the Tevar Flood soon enough. Besides, you’ve stood with us twice, though Lumestra knows we’ve given you every reason not to. We stand with you now. Isn’t that so, Viktor?”

“Without a doubt.”

Malachi nodded, his gaze falling upon Josiri. It was a curious stare, laden with hidden intent. As if he’d more he wished to impart but could not find the words. “Whatever comes next, Josiri, you are my friend. You’ll always be welcome in this city. I hope to see you again, without need of armed men to drag you north.”