Cultist of Cerebon - Chapter 43

“What is the meaning of this, Kassan?!”

A malicious smile crept across Zareth's face at the sound of Matriarch Sylthana’s shocked outburst. This development was clearly outside of her expectations, and he could practically see her desperate need to figure out why one of her closest confidants had suddenly flipped sides. Kassan, on the other hand, seemed to be completely at ease with his betrayal—without the slightest twinge of guilt in his expression.

Murmurs and whispers began to ripple through the chamber as everyone realized they were about to witness some unexpected drama.

“I’m not sure what you mean, Matriarch,” said Kassan as he calmly looked down at her from the viewing gallery. “I’ve merely corrected your mistaken assessment of the Hierophant’s Council and my Circle’s position. What is your concern?”

Her concern was the treasure trove of blackmail over her shady dealings that she was worried about coming into the open, but that was hardly something she could openly admit.

Slythana’s furious glare was as sharp as a blade, and an intimidating pressure began to fill the room, radiating from her like a storm ready to break as she spoke with chilling softness. “Are you certain that this is the path you wish to take, Kassan? Considering… everything?” 

Zareth had no idea if she meant everything they’d been through, everything they’d done, or some other veiled meaning that drew upon their shared history, but the threat in her voice was utterly unmistakable to everyone in the room. That Sylthana wasn’t even bothering to pretend to hide her intentions among Tal’Qamar’s elites was a clear sign of her anger.

“I believe you know me well enough to recognize my determination, my lady,” Kassan replied smoothly, leaning back in his seat with an air of calm detachment. “Every path has been weighed, and this is the one I’ve chosen. Perhaps you might also spare a thought for what lies ahead.”

Zareth’s eyes gleamed with reluctant respect for Kassan’s ruthless resolve. Tal’Qamar didn’t lack for cruel bastards who would do anything to further their own interest, but there weren’t many who could decisively betray someone as powerful as Matriarch Sylthana without flinching. Kassan had only been given a few days to think over the matter, yet he’d made his choice to burn a decade-long partnership without hesitation. 

He’s definitely one to keep an eye on, Zareth thought with mild unease as he turned his attention back to the Matriarch.

Sylthana clearly didn’t understand how things had developed to this point, but her frequent glances to Nasrith and Marilith showed that she correctly suspected some sort of conspiracy. 

Unsure of how to respond, Sylthana fixed her glare back on Kassan, her bone-chilling aura growing so intense that it felt as though the very air was laced with invisible blades. This lasted until Lady Marilith huffed in annoyance and did… something that caused the atmosphere in the room to instantly settle back to normal.

“Have you no self-control, Sylthana?" Marilith drawled, her voice laced with contempt. "I’m quite certain your mother taught you better than to wield such indiscriminate Skills in public. [Matriarch’s Presence] is dreadfully crude. A more refined touch, like [Focused Intimidation], would have served you far better.”

Matriarch Sylthana instantly turned her furious gaze to Marilith. “Don’t you speak about her, you—”

“I don’t see why this matters,” said Lord Valthor, wisely interrupted before Sylthana could say something she would regret. “While it’s… admirable to see that our city’s faiths are so cooperative with one another, they’re still far from worthy of a seat on this commission.” His tone was dismissive, eyes narrowing as he scanned the room. “We cannot simply recklessly grant political authority to religious bodies while we’re still fighting a damned war against the last group of fanatics we just overthrew.”

Murmurs of agreement spread throughout the room.

That argument was compelling enough to the city’s elites that Zareth felt a momentary flicker of worry. But then he glanced at the Order of the Serene Path’s special guest and remembered that the outcome of this discussion was already decided.

Though it couldn’t hurt to actually try a little persuasion. If he could convince the Great Houses to acquiesce to his demands without burning his trump card, then that would be for the best. 

Zareth allowed the arguments to go on for a few minutes, listening as each faction laid out their positions, before gesturing subtly at Nasrith. The ever-vigilant General noticed him immediately and quickly understood his meaning.

“Given the topic at hand, I believe it would be wise to allow those who we are directly discussing to argue their own cause,”  General Nasrith said smoothly during a lull in the conversation, his sharp gaze sweeping across the room. “Unless someone has a compelling reason otherwise?”

Nobody did. 

Valthor looked very much like he wanted to protest against the ‘lesser races’ involving themselves in the conversation, but even he knew that argument wouldn’t work.

“In that case, the Hierophant’s Council may speak for itself,” Nasrith continued when it became clear nobody would object.

Zareth steeled himself before confidently standing from his seat, causing him to instantly become the center of attention. There was some surprise and disapproval from the crowd when they realized that one of the younger members would be representing the Hierophant’s Council, but not as much as Zareth would have expected.

I guess the Cult of Cerebon’s reputation has grown even larger than I thought, Zareth mused with satisfaction before he began speaking.

“Thank you, General Nasrith, for the opportunity to address everyone's concerns,” Zareth began, offering a gracious smile to his fellow conspirator before turning to the rest of the chamber. “I understand there are genuine challenges in granting my cult and the other faiths of Tal'Qamar a seat on this Commission, but I am eager to alleviate those worries. Moreover, I’m confident that our inclusion would bring about fewer risks and greater benefits than many might believe.”

Zareth could feel the crowd’s interest grow with that last statement. Few truly feared that they would grow anywhere near as powerful as the Conclave—at least not before the Great Houses could react. Nor did anyone really believe that the Hierophant’s Council was too insignificant to deserve a seat on the Commission. 

There probably were a few who suspected that Nasrith had made a deal with the Hierophant’s Council for their support, but Zareth knew that there had been a great deal of effort behind the scenes to allay those suspicions. 

Therefore, the primary source of opposition to the Hierophant’s Council’s inclusion was simply common prejudice and a reflexive desire to not dilute the power of their own votes. Entrenched interests were by no means an easy thing to overcome, but it could be done so long as one had sufficient leverage. 

“And what greater benefits could we gain from giving your little group more power?” drawled Selkan, the rather pompous heir to the House Seradis in a way that seemed even more condescending than most naga. “I find it hard to imagine what services you could provide that we couldn’t handle ourselves.”

Zareth briefly wondered if all members of the Great Houses were taught by the same group of [Tutors] how to sound as dickish as possible.

“Well... I could start by listing the many ways we've already contributed to Tal'Qamar,” Zareth said, locking eyes with the Seradis heir, his smile sweet but devoid of warmth. “The blood spilled by the Priesthood of Silvaris and the Way of Gendal in this war. Or how we’ve been instrumental in countering the Conclave’s divine forces, keeping everyone here safe from their gods' wrath. But somehow, I don’t think that’s what you were asking.”

Zareth’s third eye caught the subtle shifts in the room, the unease spreading as his words reminded them all of the true stakes they faced—along with the not-so-subtle critique that some were more focused on material gains than survival.

That point probably wouldn’t have been effective before the Battle of Fal’Ashar, when the Conclave finally managed a tactical victory against Nasrith. Tal’Qamari forces had been pretty much steamrolling its enemies up until that point, making many feel like the war’s outcome was a foregone conclusion.

The outcome of that day may have been a loss for Nasrith on the battlefield, but it was a political opportunity that Zareth had no problem exploiting.

“I believe that all of our contributions along with the role we play in stabilizing and protecting this city means we deserve a say in how Tal’Qamar moves forwards, if we are to carry on doing so to the best of our abilities” Zareth continued, adding another thinly veiled threat and criticism that caused many to shift in their seats uncomfortably. “Though I understand many have other priorities.”

“Is that a threat, human?” Lord Valthor coldly, his eyes narrowing in calculation as he studied Zareth. “Is this how your Council shows its loyalty to this city? By sabotaging our war effort if we don’t bend to your will?”

Yes. It is absolutely a threat, Zareth thought with vicious satisfaction.

“No. You misunderstand my meaning, Lord Valthor,” Zareth lied smoothly. “I would simply like to remind everyone here that there are portions of this city who are less impacted by the outcome of this war than others. It would be to Tal’Qamar’s benefit if they had a reason to be more invested in the Conclave’s defeat.”

It took an embarrassingly long time for anyone to decipher what he was implying, to the point where Zareth thought he might have to be a bit more explicit. Thankfully, Lady Marilith decided to have mercy on her companions.

“What you are suggesting then, is that by granting Tal'Qamar's non-naga citizens a voice in governance, we might inspire within them a deeper commitment to the city’s defense,” Marilith said with a thoughtful expression, as if she hadn’t spent several hours discussing the matter with him already. 

A flicker of realization briefly illuminated Sylthana’s face as she remembered that public opinion was something that the Great Houses needed to care about, before darkening into suspicion as she glared at Zareth. “How convenient that the thing you claim would benefit us would also grant you greater influence with the populace. How long, I wonder, until you plan a revolt.”

“The Hierophant’s Council will remain confined in its influence to the humans and ogres,” said Sevek the Inexorable, his voice a flat, emotionless monotone. “The lizardkin constitute the majority of this city’s citizenry and are fully integrated into Tal'Qamari governance, with only minor social unrest among their population. The potential threat posed by the Council falls within parameters deemed acceptable by House Kavasa.”

Zareth carefully filled away that declaration to mull over later. He was very curious to know whether or not House Kavasa was unaware of the Tessik—or, more worryingly, if Great Houses only dismissed them as ‘minor social unrest’. 

But that could wait until later. He could tell that Nasrith was about to make his move in this carefully orchestrated drama of theirs.

“Furthermore, I believe we have fewer options than you might realize. If we fail to adapt now, the situation in Tal’Qamar could become an existential threat to the naga,” General Nasrith said with ostensible severity, causing the room to grow heavy with tension. “Or at least to the Great Houses.”

That rather shocking statement from Tal’Qamar’s ruler and foremost military commander left many in shocked silence. It wasn't too much of an exaggeration to say that the Great Houses were Tal’Qamar in all the ways that truly mattered. 

These five families were responsible for nearly half of the city’s entire economic output, with the rest of the city’s wealthy naga aristocrats producing a further fifteen percent. The Great Houses controlled or held significant sway over every single Guild save the Adventurer’s Guild and had vast webs of alliance with Tal’Qamar’s elites –even having contact with many foreign powers.

To claim that the Great Houses were facing an existential threat was something that everyone in the room would consider ridiculous and almost blasphemous, if not for who was making that claim.

“What exactly do you mean, General? Is there a threat to my House?” Lord Valthor demanded, his voice cutting through the silence. There was a solemnity and sharpness about the man that hadn’t been present before which Zareth found intriguing.

“Not as of now,” General Nasrith promptly replied, his voice steady and unyielding. “Yet I must remind this council that with each victory, we gain new subjects—precious few of whom are naga. With Tal’Hadin now in our grasp, our kinfolk have dwindled from two in ten to scarcely one in ten. It seems wise to make… political adjustments now, before they are made for us.”

The chamber fell into a tense silence, Nasrith’s words hanging heavy in the air. 

For several historical reasons that Zareth wasn’t entirely educated on, the Great Houses had centralized heavily in Tal’Qamar after the fall of the Nephalan Empire. This meant that expanding Tal’Qamar’s reach across the Qahtani Desert would inevitably result in a dramatic demographic shift.

Everyone present was smart enough to understand this, and they had probably even considered the implications before—presumably—overthrowing the Merchant Lord.

However, Zareth had a gut feeling that the Great Houses hadn’t fully appreciated just how successful the Hierophant’s Council would be in filling the void left by the Conclave. A quick glance at the discomforted expressions all around confirmed that assumption.

Now that there were several notable factions who could reasonably represent the city’s non-naga population, things were a little bit different. The naga were so disproportionately powerful that they could probably crush any outright rebellion even while drastically outnumbered, but any city-state conquered by Tal’Qamar would be in a constant state of unrest without the loyalty of its inhabitants.

Zareth knew that this wouldn’t be a well received perspective—regardless of how accurate it was—so he quickly moved on to his next point.

“In addition, it seems entirely appropriate that our Council be granted a seat on this body given the domain General Nasrith has given us permission to establish,” 

Zareth said nonchalantly, as if he wasn’t dropping another bombshell on them all. “Governing a city should entitle us to a certain degree of representation, wouldn’t you agree?”

A deafening silence followed, stretching on for several moments before being broken by a cacophony of agitated questions.

“Hmph. Does this arrogant human really believe he’s capable of managing a city?”

“Where are they getting the gold? Why haven’t I heard about this?!”

“Does High Command have the ability to authorize the creation of a new city without our approval? Quick, send someone to check the laws!”

The murmurs spread like wildfire, whispers intensifying as the council members attempted to process this bold new development. It wasn’t often that Tal’Qamar’s dignitaries were caught by surprise, and the sight was as amusing as it was telling.

Lord Valthor’s voice rang out, crisp and commanding, cutting through the clamor. “Enough.” The crowd quieted as he turned a hard stare on General Nasrith. “General, would you mind explaining what nonsense this human is suggesting? Where, precisely, would this ‘domain’ be established and with whose gold? There have been no requests made to the Budgetary Commision.”

Zareth couldn’t help but feel a twisted satisfaction watching the Valthor flounder. More than anything, it was through the control of Tal’Qamar’s gold that the Great Houses maintained their iron grip on every endeavor within the city—allowing them to avoid more heavy-handed tactics. Zareth was grateful that his god had given him the means to sidestep their financial chokehold entirely.

General Nasrith held his composure, meeting Lord Valthor’s gaze with unshaken calm. “In full accordance with our laws, the Hierophant’s Council has been sanctioned by High Command to use their unique abilities to establish a foothold in the Shifting Expanse. In return for establishing an ideal resupply fort to attack Fal’Ashar, Fal’Farakh, and Anket, they will be bestowed near-complete governing rights over the settlement. As for the financial matter, there has been no request made because the Hierophant’s Council has decided to fund and manage their own budgetary concerns. No further oversight is necessary.”

A ripple of incredulity spread across the gathered council. Disbelief painted many faces as some of the aristocrats murmured to each other in astonishment. 

“Are we expected to believe the Council can afford such an expense?” Valthor asked skeptically. “How could they possibly gather the resources for an endeavor of this scale?”

“Oh, I assure you, that won’t be a problem,” Zareth interjected with a smile as sharp as a blade. 

A part of him was tempted to open up his chest and pull out the Seed of Creation currently stored within his body, but that kind of gore was a bit too excessive for polite company. Instead, he allowed strands of the godly power radiating from the seed to flow freely, releasing a gentle pulse that washed over the room and left even those without a Skill to sense Divine Essence in awe.

“My god, Cerebon, in his boundless benevolence has bestowed upon his followers a truly unique gift,” Zareth continued, his voice cutting through the stunned silence. “This gift is known as the Seed of Creation. When planted near a leyline, it will grow into the Cerebith Tree—a mighty flesh tree capable of producing a nearly limitless supply of biomass. This resource, cultivated and shaped by my cult, will meet nearly every construction need for the great city of Nishrahad.”

In the Nephalan language, Nisrahad loosely translated to "Sanctuary of Divine Guardians," symbolizing the Hierophant’s Council's promise to shield and safeguard the city’s people. 

The mention of a "flesh tree" sent a ripple of discomfort through the chamber, but Zareth pressed on, highlighting the practical benefits before anyone could interject. “Not only does the Cerebith Tree provide practical, versatile materials that would save Tal’Qamar a great deal of labor and expense, but Nishrahad will be near unreachable to any hostile forces who lack the Dehsarin’s expertise in dealing with sand elementals. I trust that everyone here recognizes the strategic potential of an impregnable military outpost that also happens to be ideally positioned to serve as a trade hub connecting three major City-States.”

Zareth could tell from Sylthana’s furious glare that his emphasis on the word any had not been missed. Moreover, the immense benefits that Nishrahad could bring were obvious enough that even the most reluctant of hardliners were beginning to show consideration. Even the representatives from House Zarqet and House Seradis seemed reluctantly interested, not to mention the leader of the Merchant’s Guild, who was practically salivating at the prospect of the new shorter trade routes.

Things were looking good. So much so that Zareth was almost beginning to hope that he wouldn’t need to pull out his trump card at all. 

Of course, that was when the Matriarch decided to make things more difficult than they had to be.

“This is nothing short of preposterous,” she hissed, her gaze hard as steel as she surveyed the council. “Need I remind you all that we are at war with the very City-States this farcical ‘trade hub’ would cater to?! Will you truly allow this human to tempt you with illusionary benefits and allow this transparent little scheme to succeed? Do not forget that granting the Hierophant’s Council a seat on this commission means handing High Command the deciding vote to enact his every whim without question!”

That was a bit of an exaggeration. It’d become clear to Zareth during his meetings with Lady Marilith that House Vhelan and House Kavasa would only allow General Nasrith to consolidate power up to a certain degree. Still, the Great Houses didn’t know that for certain, and Sylthana’s rhetoric was clearly hitting its mark. 

“Hmm. The Matriarch raises a good point.”

“We have no idea how long this damnable war will last—or if the western City-States will be hostile once it does. But a city in the Shifting Expanse would bring our domain closer to the Sapphire Sea.”

“This Nisrahad would be a valuable asset even without trade routes…”

“I heard from my sister that the Sunstones from the Shifting Expanse are a lovely burgundy color! They would pair so beautifully with my scales…”

“It’s too dangerous. High Command already holds more power than we ever intended. Granting this would be like trading an entire oasis for a single waterskin!”

Arguments for and against began to break out in the chambers, each faction voicing their concerns or support for the Hierophant's Council's proposal. Zareth watched with measured patience, keenly observing how the balance shifted with each opinion voiced. But while those watching from the gallery seemed to lean generally in the direction of support, the actual members of the Oversight Commission seemed stuck along the same factional lines as when they started. 

I suppose I should have expected this, Zareth thought ruefully. There was never going to be any argument compelling enough to sway their minds. The Guilds would have never gone against their backers, and the Great Houses have already made up their minds…

But since this entire meeting was little more than a predetermined farce, nobody could blame Zareth for what he was about to do. Zareth turned his attention to the gallery holding the Order of the Serene Path and nodded to the eerie, faceless mushroom man in monk robes who had arrived in place of Kinta. The Mycelid didn’t acknowledge him in any way, but Zareth somehow still got the feeling that they understood his meaning.

The arguments continued for several more minutes, falling increasingly in the opposition's favor as House Khrysar used both bribes and unsubtle threats to turn the tide.

“We are all grateful that the Hierophant’s Council seems so willing to serve Tal’Qamar,” Lord Valthor said insincerely. “But unless anyone has anything further to say, I believe it's best we call a vote on the issue and move on.”

Before Valthor could proceed, Zareth smoothly interjected, his voice as calm as ever. “Apologies, Lord Valthor, but I believe there is one final matter that might sway your deliberations. Something… rather pertinent to this esteemed Commission.”

Zareth noted the unease in Sylthana’s eyes, while Marilith and Nasrith exchanged subtle, anticipatory glances. He sensed a subtle shift in the flow of Ether around him, realizing that the figure who had stood silently behind him for the past half-hour was now visible to everyone in the chamber.

“I would like to introduce you all to someone who was, until very recently, a long-time collaborator of House Khrysar,” Zareth began, gesturing toward the solemn figure of Khasim Dhari. “And also a high-ranking member of the Echoes of Jelt, a renowned Eldamari Assassin’s Guild. He’s here to shed light on several serious crimes that House Khrysar has committed, not only against Tal’Qamar, but also against their fellow Great Houses as well.”

For all the differences between this world and its inhabitants with Zareth’s old one, the inherent love of drama that all people shared was universal. The Echoes of Jelt were sufficiently famous—especially among a crowd like this one—that there were more than a few who gasped in recognition, while others shifted uncomfortably, exchanging uneasy glances. The reaction from Selkhan of House Seradis—so brief and uncontrolled that even Zareth’s third eye struggled to decipher it—was particularly surprising.

Recognition that flickered into something akin to realization before finally settling on extreme rage. All of this passed within a single moment for Selkan had re-adopted the arrogant, disinterested facade he had been wearing before.

Interesting… I wonder what that was about, Zareth wondered as he considered the young merchant prince’s reaction. 

After his… enforced moral realignment, Khasim had been thoroughly interrogated about all the work he had done for House Khrysar, with particular focus on his dealings involving the other Great Houses. As far as he knew, the intersection between House Khrysar and House Seradis was minimal, so it was strange to see such a strong response from Selkan.

But that was something Zareth would have to look into later. For now, he intended to exploit the grievances of Great House most heavily targeted by Sylthana, which was predictably—

“Oh? Unseemly behavior from House Khrysar? Directed at the Great Houses themselves? What a revelation,” Lady Marilith drawled, her tone dripping with sarcasm as she cast a sideways glance at Slythana, who looked as though she’d swallowed a particularly sour insect. “Do go on; we’re all ears.”

“How utterly absurd. Am I genuinely expected to sit idly while I’m slandered by a self-proclaimed cutthroat?” said Sylthana as her lips curled in disdain, a look of incredulous outrage twisting her expression. “Pray tell, how are we to trust that this man is who he claims to be? And even if he is, are we expected to heed the accusations of one whose loyalty is bought with gold?”

Her indignation swept through the chamber, drawing nods of agreement from some in the gallery who exchanged uneasy glances and murmurs of disapproval. Others, most notably the representative of House Seradis and House Zarqet, leaned forward with keen interest, their eyes locked on Khasim and Zareth as the scandal unfolded.

While they might count Sylthana as an ally, Zareth had no doubt that they were more than a little eager to learn what House Khrysar had been doing behind their backs. This wasn’t the kind of opportunity that they could afford to let slip by.

Just as Sylthana’s outrage began to gather steam, Marilith’s smooth voice cut through the air on cue, unflinching and composed. “If it pleases this Commission, I suggest that High Command requisition a high-ranking [Truthseeker] equipped with the [Detect Deception] Skill from the Office of Investigation to settle this matter with all due swiftness and certainty.” She turned a cool gaze to Nasrith, a faint smile playing on her lips. “That won’t be a problem, will it, my dear General?”

“Not at all, Lady Marilith,” General Nasrith responded with a nod.

“House Kavasa seconds this motion,” said Sevek, the golem speaking up for only the third time since the meeting began. 

Nasrith’s and Sevek’s responses were quick enough that even the most oblivious onlooker could tell that this had been coordinated beforehand, let alone to the politically adept minds of Tal’Qamar’s elites. 

Sylthana gaped in stunned silence for several moments, resembling a fish out of water, before finally regaining her composure. Her expression grew solemn as the gravity of the situation settled upon her.

The Matriarch struggled to think of any reason to refute the motion, but failed to do so. It wasn’t long before the [Truthseeker], who had been prepared well in advance, was summoned and entered the chamber.

Many even took that time to ready their own lie-detecting artifacts or attendants, adding further weight to the testimony that was about to be presented. If it had been only the single [Truthseeker], Sylthana could have perhaps claimed bias from High Command or that Khasim had somehow managed to fool their Skill. But with so many different people using various means to verify the truth, even the Matriarch would struggle to discredit the testimony without looking desperate.

The look of bitter frustration from Sylthana when she realized this made Zareth glad that he’d had so much help putting together this plan.

“Let us proceed,” Nasrith said once everything had been prepared. “Khasim Dhari, step forward and declare your name and identity for all to hear as well as all information you have regarding violations of Tal’Qamari law. Know that any attempts to deceive this body will be met with severe consequences.”

Zareth stepped back and allowed Khasim to take center stage on their designated platform. The [Poison-Master Assassin] wore an expression of deep solemnity, as if he was about to undertake the most important endeavor of his life.

“I am Khasim Dhari, born of the Al’Jassa tribe and formerly sworn to the Echoes of Jelt. By the unending grace of the Serene One, I have been enlightened to the wickedness of my path and seek to atone for my sins by serving her forevermore. The Serene One has dictated that I shall begin to do so by bringing light to my past crimes.”

Zareth didn’t need the [Eye of Cerebon] to see the unease and fear at Khasim’s extremely obvious brainwashing. But that was a problem for the Order of the Serene Path to deal with later. Right now, it was only met with the [Truthseekers] nod of approval that mattered.

“Let it be known that Truthseeker Ishal has confirmed the sincerity of Khasim Dhari’s intentions,” General Nasrith announced, his tone formal as he gestured for Khasim to continue.

“For more than a decade, I’ve served as my Guild’s primary operative within the Qahtani Desert’s City-States,” Khasim began, his demeanor remarkably composed despite confessing to crimes severe enough to warrant his execution in any other situation. “There are many who hired the Echoes of Jelt for their services—but few as prolifically as, or with as much consequence, as House Khrysar.”

Sylthana’s desperate voice cut through the air like a whip, sharp. “Enough! This is slander! A mockery of the Commission and an insult to—”

“You will cease your interruptions, Matriarch!” General Nasrith thundered, his commanding voice echoing through the chamber. The weight of his authority pressed down on the room like a tangible force, silencing everyone including the enraged Sylthana. “You will have your opportunity to speak in due course, but this chamber will not descend into chaos.”

Lady Marilith, ever the opportunist, seized the moment with a slow, mocking clap. “Bravo, Sylthana. Truly, your flair for dramatics never fails to entertain. I wonder, though, are you afraid of what might come next? Or is this simply another example of your complete inability to control your temper? Honestly, it’s as if you’re a [Pampered Lady] rather than a [Matriarch]. Is it possible for Classes to devolve?”

Sylthana’s glare was cold enough to freeze molten stone, but Marilith simply smiled, completely unbothered. Zareth had to give it to the old lady; she really knew how to get under Sylthana’s scales. Although, her criticism of the Matriarch’s competence was slightly overblown. 

Any reasonable person would be flustered given what Khasim was about to reveal.

“Enough. This is not a forum for petty insults and emotional outbursts,” General Nasrith said firmly before turning his attention back to Khasim. “Proceed. State clearly and in detail the services you claim to have provided to House Khrysar.”

“Of course, General. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity,” said Khasim, his unnatural zeal allowing him to remain seemingly unaffected.

Zareth had perhaps underestimated just how… thorough Khasim intended to be, because the former assassin’s confession lasted for nearly thirty minutes as he listed a long litany of crimes attributable to House Khrysar, from mundane bribery to much worse that involved the Echoes of Jelt.

Assassination of political enemies, sabotage of important industries owned by the other Great Houses, and even cultivating ties to many of Tal’Qamar’s criminal elements. Zareth had no doubt that all of the other Great Houses also engaged in these kinds of activities, but none of them were unfortunate enough to have all of their dirty laundry aired in public.

However, there was one incident in particular that Nasrith had claimed would definitely be more than enough to force an investigation into House Khrysar, and thus temporarily strip them of their voting rights.

“Matriarch Sylthana has maintained extensive dealings with various groups across the Eldamir Empire, with the Echoes of Jelt being just one among many," Khasim continued, following his account of the poisoning of a minor lady’s prized birds. "Many of these connections are cloaked in an unusual level of secrecy—far beyond what one might typically expect from such dealings. My former Guild, despite its expertise, struggled to uncover the full scope of House Khrysar's activities... until a certain agreement came to light involving the recently conquered city of Tal’Hadin. One that I believe threatens Tal’Qamari’s relationship with the Eldamir Empire.”

Zareth watched as Sylthana lost all color in her face as she realized what was about to be revealed. An uproar rose in the chamber at the idea that House Khrysar’s activities could draw the ire of Tal’Qamar’s much larger and more powerful neighbor.

More than a few eyes drifted to the delegation from Eldamir, who had quietly been given special dispensation by Nasrith to attend this session under the guise of forging political ties. To Zareth, they looked like a group of stereotypical western fantasy [Knights], each of them resplendent in polished armor adorned with the sigils of the Eldamiri royal family. 

Their leader, Dame Isolde of the Silent Crusade, was renowned for her unwavering devotion to Harpocrate the Silent Judge and her profound disdain for lawlessness, deceit, and political scheming. The Silent Crusade was a fairly influential Knightly Order and was thus fully capable of leveraging its reputation to demand accountability.

That Dame Isolde icy glare on Sylthana did not bode well for the Matriarch.

Unlike her blustering efforts before, Sylthana seemed smart enough to realize that there was nothing she could do to stop Khasim from sharing his testimony.

“This agreement sought to establish a covert smuggling route from the Duchy of Arbasel to Tal’Hadin, bypassing the oversight of the Eldamiri royal and Tal’Qamar’s authorities," Khasim declared, his words sparking quiet murmurs throughout the chamber. “Moreover, the Echoes of Jelt suspect that this route is primarily focused on the concealed transportation of illicit magical artifacts and potentially even dissidents.”

The crowd’s quiet murmurs immediately broke out into a cacophony of shocked exclamations. Especially as the Duchy of Arbasel was the most well-known member of the faction opposing Eldamir’s royal family as well as the home of the Empire’s illustrious Veilspire Academy.

Zareth had a fairly solid grasp on Eldamiri history since he really did enjoy reading about the past of the fantasy world he lived in. Especially when it helped level [Atavistic Apostle].

The Duchy of Arbasel had been a pain in the Eldamiri royal family’s eye for centuries, as the ruling family preferred if Veilspire Academy and its many powerful [Archmages] were safely nestled in the capital where they could be watched. Even worse, the Cult of the Unfettered One had once had a significant presence in the Duchy before being nearly wiped out during one of Eldamir’s bloodier civil wars.

Suffice to say, anything related to the Duchy of Arbasel was a political landmine that no sane person would involve themselves with lightly.

The uproar, underscored by the quietly furious glares of the Eldamari [Knights], persisted for a minute before Nasrith restored order and called the room back to attention.

“Enough,” Nasrith thundered, his voice cutting through the cacophony like a blade. The room immediately fell silent, though the tension was palpable. “This matter is too grave to be left unexamined. I propose an immediate inquiry into the accusations against House Khrysar with the cooperation of our Eldamiri guests to ensure impartiality. Assuming, of course, that the Silent Crusade is willing to offer their assistance.”

Dame Isolde’s expression was colder than ice, her words clipped and deliberate. “Our Order is willing. Hapocrate demands justice, and his Resplendent Majesty will require an explanation for this insult.”

A collective shudder rippled through the ranks of the Tal’Qamari assembly. Emperor Valthorin the Resplendent was… one of the more dangerous [Emperors] to ascend the Eldamari throne in recent history, having done so by winning a power struggle that was brutal even by the infamously unstable empire’s standard.

He’d even managed to keep his throne for more than fifteen years without being killed, which was no small feat! 

Tal’Qamar could maybe afford to offend Eldamir if there was a weak Ruler and the offense was relatively minor, but with someone like Valthorin on the throne, the power differential was simply too great. The plan to leverage Eldamir against House Khrysar had nearly been abandoned when Nasrith grasped the extent of what Khasim knew and how much it could backfire on Tal’Qamar. But in the end, the General’s ambition had won out.

“In light of the gravity of these accusations, I propose that House Khrysar be suspended from its voting privileges on this Commission until the inquiry is concluded,” said Nasrith, fully seizing the opportunity that had been so carefully arranged. “This is to ensure impartiality and prevent undue influence on the investigation.”

The chamber erupted into murmurs and whispers once again. Though some voiced token opposition, most nodded in agreement. The evidence was too damning, the potential consequences too severe to ignore. Even Sylthana’s staunchest allies remained silent, unwilling to draw attention to themselves.

When the chamber quieted, Nasrith turned his gaze to Sylthana. “Matriarch Sylthana, do you have anything to say in your defense before we proceed?”

For a moment, she said nothing, the eerie silence stretching unbearably as all eyes turned toward her. Then, slowly, she lifted her head, her piercing gaze locking onto Zareth with a cold intensity that sent a shiver down his spine. Zareth fought the instinct to flinch as his third eye showed a shimmering and ominous aura around Slythana for a moment, before it suddenly disappeared. 

What the hell was that?

Her lips curled into a faint, unsettling smile before she turned her attention back to Nasrith.

“I have nothing to say,” she replied evenly, her voice devoid of emotion. “You’ve orchestrated this farce too perfectly. I have been outplayed.”

Zareth couldn’t help but feel some of his vindictive satisfaction fade at Sylthana’s response. He would’ve much preferred if she’d yelled and screamed as he had come to expect from the fiery Matriarch. Instead, there was something about her that seemed… strange. 

Zareth scrutinized her intensely through the [Eye of Cerebon], searching for any anomalies, but found nothing unusual. 

She probably just used [Regulate Emotions], Zareth thought to himself as he reluctantly forced himself to relax. 

“My, my. Such grace in defeat, Sylthana. Perhaps you’ve learned something after all,” Marilith drawled mockingly

Sylthana did not rise to the bait, her composed expression unmoving. Nasrith shot Marilith a warning glance before speaking again. “The proposal stands: House Khrysar is to be suspended from voting on this Commission until the investigation is resolved. Let us move to a vote.”

When the roll call began, the outcome was inevitable. None of the Great Houses or Guilds dared to openly oppose the motion at the risk of offending Eldamir. Moreover, few of them actually wanted to, given that Khasim had revealed that House Khrysar had transgressed against nearly all of them at one point or another.

“House Kavasa supports the motion,” said Sevek, the golem’s tone as impassive as always.

“House Vhelan votes in favor of the motion,” Lady Marilith said with a satisfied smile. “It’s only natural that we should investigate these grave accusations, so that none can say that our Great Houses are dishonorable or complicit in crimes.”

Zareth hurriedly covered up a laugh at Marilith’s barefaced sarcasm. He really was starting to like the old woman.

“House Seradis… supports the motion as well,” Selkan said reluctantly, his voice laced with barely concealed irritation at being outmaneuvered.

“House Zarqet votes in favor,” Lord Valthor said tersely.

“The motion passes,” General Nasrith announced after the final vote was cast, his voice firm and authoritative. “As Ruler of Tal’Qamar, I formally accept the Oversight Commission’s decision to launch an investigation into House Khrysar’s alleged criminal activities and rescind their voting privileges in this body until such a time that the investigation has concluded.”

The declaration hung in the air, a heavy punctuation to one of the Great Houses falling from political grace. House Khrysar had suffered a very real blow to both its prestige and its power. Depending on the results of the investigation, it could very well prove to be the beginning of something genuinely debilitating.

Oh, Zareth had no delusions that this investigation alone was an existential threat to House Khrysar’s position. The Great Houses were simply too entrenched in Tal’Qamar and had too many trump cards locked away in their coffers to go down without bringing the city-state to ruin. However, Zareth and his allies had accomplished something truly significant by cracking the armor of one of Tal’Qamar’s most powerful families and uprooting their political power—if even temporarily. 

An achievement that was about to be richly awarded.

"With that, I call upon this Commission to deliberate on the motion previously tabled," General Nasrith stated with deliberate precision, ensuring no opportunity for interruption. “The inclusion of the Hierophant’s Council as a recognized entity with a permanent seat on this body. I believe that we now have a clearer understanding of the value this institution brings to Tal’Qamar’s governance and defense. They have demonstrated both initiative and capability by securing a strategic foothold in the Shifting Expanse while uncovering threats of profound significance to our nation's stability. If such actions do not merit a seat on this Commission, then I challenge this assembly to define what does. I propose we proceed to a vote without delay."

The votes split just as Zareth had anticipated; everyone voted along the same factional lines that they had started with. This meant that with House Khrysar no longer in the picture, the final result was a tie that fell on General Nasrith to break according to Tal’Qamari law.

“The motion to grant the Hierophant’s Council a permanent seat to this body has passed by majority vote,” General Nasrith declared, his serpentine eyes glimmering with obvious satisfaction. 

With one more vote secured for his faction, High Command would have a much easier time securing their objectives. The subsequent motion to consolidate power in the military may as well be a foregone conclusion.

General Nasrith’s gaze swept across the chamber, before finally settling on Zareth. “Now that the Hierophant’s Council has been granted a seat on this Commission, one question remains. Who among your number will represent your interests and lead your voice in this assembly?”

The question was largely preformative, as pretty much everyone could already guess the answer. But Zareth still allowed himself to savor the moment when all eyes turned to him, as his heart began to race—not with fear, but with exhilaration.

Memories surged in his mind, unbidden yet vivid. The fetid alleys of the Sunrise Slums where he’d once scavenged for scraps just to survive. The nights spent nursing wounds inflicted by both enemies and supposed allies, praying that he wouldn’t die of a simple infection. The desperation he’d felt when his closest friends turned on him, as well as the blinding hope that he had felt when that [Cultist] had first handed him the tome of Cerebon.

Slowly growing his cult, surviving multiple assassination attempts, and gathering the right allies to support him had all led him to this very moment. One that would see him—a former insignificant [Street Urchin] who was once not even fit to become a [Servant] to many of the people in this room—claim a seat among Tal’Qamar’s ruling elite.

The taste of victory was the most intoxicating thing that Zareth had ever experienced.

Zareth carefully hid his euphoria behind a calm mask as he stepped forward. “I, Zareth, leader of the Cult of Cerebon and representative of the Hierophant’s Council, accept this responsibility.”

=================

Author's Note:

This took longer than usual. No real reason other than that I had trouble with writing recently. Lots of politics, but hope you guys liked it. Also, I intend to go back in a couple days and add some foreshadowing regarding House Khrysar during the previous Kassan/Sylthana scene.