7 Kythorn 1357 D.R.<br/><br/>It is mid-morning, and it is going to be a dry, warm day. Already the sun is bathing the Cloakwood in it's light, warming the land and illuminating the realm. It is the first real sunny day in a week. A week ago, the King was buried, and the Queen has declared a month of mourning. In that time, she has been busy, both keeping the realm running, and receiving emissaries and condolences from allies around Toril. There was a public service for the King, that was more a remembrance and joyous occasion, than a somber one, and then there was an intimate, private one that was quite subdued. Gabilgathal was loved and respected, even among those in Evereska and Evermeet, and Aglarond, that felt he was too cosmopolitan and too open to new ways. He commanded respect, and he earned trust. He was, by all accounts, a wise and benevolent ruler.<br/><br/>Thus, the sudden shock of his murder had caught everyone off guard. Wild speculation began being whispered in circles and behind closed doors. No one knew what to make of it. If he was so loved and respected, why was he now dead? Did some long-lost enemy strike from the shadows? Was a policy about to be announced that would have infuriated or damaged someone? Did he learn something he shouldn't have? Perhaps one of his recent actions caused bitterness and strife? None knew for sure, and the whispers continued.<br/><br/>For some of you the loss is more profound. The king was your blood, or a relative. For others, he was your liege.<br/><br/>It has come to this, however. You were summoned by the Queen. Each of you were expected to attend a private council meeting with her. Your assumption is, that she has decided that it is time to get to the heart of the matter to try to make sense of what happened, and why it happened. Your arrival coincides with others, some you know, others you may have only seen in passing, or been marginally acquainted with.<br/><br/>Two that are familiar to you are Enastril Moraine, Master of the Bladesong and Head Instructor at the Sword Dancer Academy. His face is neutral, unreadable, and as cold as ice as you arrive. The other is Aysia Van Ymir, Copper Elf Druidess of Alathrien Druanna, adopted daughter of the Queen's Nephew, Kess Van Ymir. She has a shirt on, which is unusual, and it covers the tattoos that normally would be visible on her arms, shoulders, back and stomach. She appears to be uncomfortable in the surroundings, which is to say, indoors. She smiles politely, knowing some of you.<br/><br/>The waiting chamber is Spartan, with natural light designed to show the trees and plants that are central to the palace. It is unassuming and furnished with simple wooden chairs and a table upon which are refreshments. You have been advised she will see you in ten or so minutes, and to be comfortable waiting for the duration.