By the time the doors opened, Tova had already decided that the Concord was deliberately trying to bore them to death.
They had recently been served a meal, which had kept everyone occupied for a while, but it hadn't taken long for Tova to grow restless again. She had spent much of the afternoon examining everything within reach, questioning Mira about the things she couldn't examine, and suggesting that they find someone willing to show them the rest of the building. Mira had rejected the last suggestion so many times that she no longer bothered explaining why.
"I'm just saying, if they wanted us to sit around all day, they could've done that without bringing us here," Tova complained, leaning backward in her chair. "We could've been waiting somewhere interesting."
"We're sitting inside one of the most important religious institutions in Vaelora," Serenya reminded her. "I'd say that's fairly interesting."
"Then why won't they let us see any of it?"
"Because we're supposed to wait here."
"Exactly my problem."
Kaelric, who had been balancing a small wooden ornament on the tip of one finger, turned toward them.
"Perhaps they're deciding which of us to send home. Seven Blessed are terribly expensive, after all. Imagine how much food they'll have to provide."
He tilted his head toward Rokhan, who sat quietly a few seats away.
"And look at him. A skinny Orc like that? They'll probably keep feeding him until his belly's bulging just to make sure he doesn't fall over."
Rokhan slowly turned his head.
Kaelric smiled.
"Nothing personal, of course. I'm merely concerned about the Concord's finances."
Rokhan looked at him for another moment before returning his attention to the room.
"Could eat."
Tova burst out laughing.
Kaelric placed a hand against his chest.
"See? Already a financial disaster."
Even Serenya couldn't help smiling.
Mira stood near the entrance with her hands folded neatly before her. Earlier that day, she would have been horrified to hear someone joking so casually about the Seven Blessed. Now she found herself wondering whether the Concord's kitchens really were prepared for an Orc with Rokhan's appetite.
She quickly dismissed the thought.
Elyra stood near one of the bookshelves, studying the titles arranged along its upper shelves. Her liquid metal hair shifted gently over her shoulders as she tilted her head.
"Some of these volumes appear older than the current building. Were they transferred from an earlier structure?"
Mira turned toward her.
"Yes. The Concord has been rebuilt and expanded many times, but several collections were preserved from its older libraries."
"Are the original catalogues still available? I'd like to compare the records and determine whether anything was lost during the transfers."
"They should be in the archives, although you'd need permission to access them."
Elyra considered that.
"You've mentioned permission several times today. Is there someone responsible for granting it, or does each collection require a separate request?"
Mira hesitated.
"I don't actually know how every collection is managed. I could ask my grandfather."
"That would be helpful. Thank you."
Kaelric leaned toward Tova.
"I think Elyra has found her reason to stay."
"She hasn't even seen the good stuff yet," Tova whispered back.
Across the room, Silas sat with one leg crossed over the other, quietly observing the others. He seemed perfectly content to let the afternoon pass without contributing much to the conversation. Occasionally, something amused him enough to produce a faint smile, but he made no effort to join every discussion.
Cael sat nearby with his back straight and his hands resting neatly upon his knees.
He had maintained that posture for so long that Mira wondered whether he was uncomfortable. Every time someone addressed him, however, he responded with the same composed expression and courteous manner.
"Perhaps the Council simply wishes to ensure that everything has been considered carefully before speaking with us," Cael suggested. "Matters concerning the Blessed are rarely simple."
Tova turned toward him.
"You've been saying things like that all afternoon."
Cael blinked.
"Have I?"
"Different words, same thing. We should be patient, the Council has important responsibilities, we must conduct ourselves appropriately." She counted each point on her fingers. "I think you've given us the same speech three times."
"I was only trying to be reasonable."
"And you've done a wonderful job," Kaelric assured him. "If the Council needs someone to tell us to keep waiting, I'll recommend you."
Cael gave a polite smile.
"I appreciate your confidence."
Kaelric studied him for a moment, perhaps expecting something else, but Cael simply returned his attention to the room.
Before anyone could continue, a low sound echoed through the hall.
The enormous doors at the far end began to open.
Everyone turned.
Orren emerged from the passage beyond, his cane tapping against the stone floor as he approached.
Mira immediately straightened.
"Grandfather."
"Mira." He glanced around the room, taking in the Blessed and the various chairs they had occupied. "I trust our guests have been comfortable."
"Very," Cael answered before anyone else could speak.
Tova opened her mouth, but Mira caught her eye.
After a moment, Tova shrugged.
"Comfortable enough. Could've used a tour."
Orren regarded her calmly.
"Perhaps another time."
"That's what she said."
Mira felt her cheeks warm.
Orren's expression barely changed.
"Then I see you've already received an answer."
Kaelric laughed, while Tova looked as though she was beginning to understand why Mira had been so difficult to persuade.
"The Council is ready to receive you," Orren continued. "If you would follow me."
The atmosphere changed almost immediately.
Tova lowered her chair onto all four legs, and Serenya rose, smoothing the front of her clothing. Silas uncrossed his legs and stood without comment, while Rokhan was already moving toward the entrance.
Cael straightened his shoulders.
Elyra reluctantly stepped away from the bookshelf.
Mira moved toward her grandfather.
"Should I accompany them?"
"Of course. You have been responsible for our guests this afternoon, and I see no reason for that responsibility to end at the chamber doors."
She nodded, relieved.
Orren looked toward the seven teenagers.
"Before we enter, understand that the Council has spent considerable time discussing matters that concern all of you. Some of what you hear may be unexpected, and there will be questions we cannot yet answer. You will be given an opportunity to speak, so I encourage you to make use of it."
Tova frowned.
"Unexpected how?"
"You will understand shortly."
Kaelric tilted his head.
"That sounds reassuring."
"It wasn't intended to be."
Orren turned and began walking.
The Blessed followed.
Mira fell into step beside Serenya, who glanced toward her with a small smile.
"Have you ever been inside the Council chamber?"
"Yes. Many times."
"Is it intimidating?"
Mira considered lying.
"A little. Mostly when everyone is looking at you."
Serenya laughed softly.
"Thank you. That's actually more helpful than telling me there's nothing to worry about."
Mira smiled.
"You're welcome."
The passage beyond the waiting hall was wide enough for several people to walk abreast, its polished stone walls decorated with patterns that became increasingly elaborate as they approached the Council chamber.
Tova kept glancing toward the markings.
"Are those defensive arrays?"
"Some of them," Mira answered.
"Some? How do you tell which ones are active?"
"Training, mostly. There are also differences in how the patterns are constructed."
Tova studied the nearest wall.
"Could you show me?"
"Not here. And probably not without permission."
"There's that word again."
Elyra leaned closer to examine the carvings.
"Some of these patterns appear to overlap. Are they part of the same system?"
"I believe so," Mira said. "My grandfather would know more."
Tova looked toward Orren.
"Senior Keeper, how old are these arrays?"
"Some are older than the passage itself."
Tova's eyes widened.
"How does that work?"
"Careful construction."
"That doesn't explain anything."
"No," Orren agreed. "It doesn't."
Kaelric smiled.
"I like him."
The passage ended at a pair of enormous doors.
Orren stopped before them and placed his hand against the stone beside the entrance.
A series of deep clicks sounded within the walls.
The doors began to move.
Tova's attention immediately shifted from the mechanisms hidden within the entrance, but whatever question she had been preparing disappeared when she saw the chamber beyond.
Seven colossal pillars rose toward a domed ceiling far above them. Each pillar bore carvings associated with one of the Seven Gods, and the colors of their respective Dominions stretched across the dome in sweeping patterns of light.
At its center rested the symbol of the Concord.
Rows of curved seats and desks formed a great circle around the chamber's central floor, where the seven members of the Council waited. Opposite them sat the Guardians.
There were no thrones and no elevated seat indicating that one God was greater than another. Every part of the chamber seemed arranged around the same principle of equality.
Mira had seen the room before, yet even she felt a familiar sense of awe as they entered.
Beside her, Serenya stopped.
"It's beautiful. I knew the Concord was supposed to be impressive, but I didn't imagine anything like this."
Elyra's glowing eyes moved slowly across the ceiling.
"The structure is remarkable. The pillars appear to support the dome, but the distribution of weight doesn't seem consistent with their arrangement."
Silas looked upward.
"Must've taken a while to build."
Tova wasn't listening.
She was staring at the walls.
"Those joints…"
Her gaze moved toward the floor, then the ceiling, then back toward the enormous pillars.
"Wait. Those aren't decorative. There's something behind them."
Mira smiled.
"No."
Tova turned toward her.
"What do you mean, no?"
Before Mira could answer, Veska's voice carried across the chamber.
"Tova."
Tova looked toward the Guardians.
Veska was watching her with unmistakable satisfaction.
"You noticed."
"Noticed what?"
"The walls. They're part of the chamber's mechanism."
Tova looked back.
Then her eyes widened.
"No."
Veska smiled.
"Yes."
"The whole thing?"
"Most of it."
Tova stared at her.
"You're joking."
"I wish. I've been trying to get someone to show me how it works since I arrived."
Tova looked around the chamber again, visibly struggling to decide which question to ask first.
From the Council's circle, Torren sighed.
"There's two of them."
Sair laughed.
Veska glanced toward the elderly Warden.
"You'll get used to it."
"I sincerely doubt that."
Orren continued forward, and the Blessed followed him into the center of the chamber, where seven seats had been arranged facing the Council.
Mira remained a short distance behind them.
As they approached, the Guardians rose.
Korin inclined his head toward Cael, who immediately returned the gesture with practiced formality. Tanila placed a hand briefly against Serenya's shoulder, and Oria greeted Elyra with a quiet inclination of her head.
Vorga looked Rokhan over from head to foot.
"Eat?"
Rokhan nodded.
"Good."
Veska was already speaking quietly to Tova, who kept glancing toward the ceiling. Vaelor acknowledged Silas with a small nod, and Sair smiled at Kaelric.
"Behaved yourself?"
"Impeccably. Though I fear our hosts may have underestimated how much entertainment seven Blessed require."
Sair's ears lifted.
"I'll be sure to pass along your complaint."
Elowen rose from her seat.
The quiet conversations stopped.
"Welcome, Blessed. I am Elowen Marr, First Keeper of the Concord. On behalf of the Council, I thank you for joining us."
Cael immediately bowed.
"The honor is ours, First Keeper."
The others followed with varying degrees of formality.
Elowen smiled and gestured toward their seats.
"Please, make yourselves comfortable. I imagine you've been waiting long enough."
Tova looked relieved.
Elowen allowed them a moment to settle before continuing.
"The reason we have gathered you here is to discuss your preparation for the coming Trials. The Concord has received information indicating that this Descent will differ from those recorded in our histories. Traditionally, the Blessed have been required to complete a single divine Trial. This time, there will be three."
The silence that followed was immediate.
Tova leaned forward.
"Three? You mean three separate Trials?"
"That is what we have been told."
Kaelric looked toward the ceiling.
"Well, that's inconvenient."
Serenya's expression grew concerned.
"Do you know what we'll be asked to do?"
"Only that the First Trial will involve defense. Its full nature is expected to be revealed in approximately a year, and the Trial itself will begin about a year after that."
"Defense of what?" Serenya asked.
"We don't know."
Tova frowned.
"Then how are we supposed to prepare for something when nobody will tell us what it is?"
"That is precisely why we've brought you here," Elowen answered. "We cannot prepare you for a specific challenge without knowing its conditions, but we can help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to face a wide range of possibilities."
Elyra remained quiet, her glowing eyes fixed on the Council. She had studied records of past Descents, and the mention of three Trials had clearly given her something to consider.
Silas rested his arms against the sides of his chair.
"So we train for what we can and figure out the rest when we know more."
Garran nodded.
"Exactly."
Silas accepted the answer without further comment.
Elowen continued.
"To accomplish that, the Concord intends to establish an academy here, using the facilities and resources already available to us. You would study alongside talented students from the seven Dominions while receiving specialized instruction from your Guardians and other accomplished individuals."
Tova straightened.
"Here? As in, inside the Concord?"
"Yes."
"With the workshops?"
Veska smiled.
"They have excellent workshops."
Tova turned toward her.
"You've seen them?"
"Some."
"And?"
"You'll like them."
Tova grinned.
Elyra leaned forward.
"Would the academy provide access to the historical archives?"
"Yes," Elowen answered. "Students will be able to study the Concord's records, including accounts of previous Trials. Some collections will require supervision, but those materials will form an important part of your education."
Elyra looked toward Oria.
"That would be extremely valuable."
Oria inclined her head.
"I thought you might find it interesting."
"Would the academy also have a library available for general study?" Serenya asked. "I'd be interested in learning more about healing practices from the other Dominions."
"Certainly," Elowen replied. "The academy will have access to the Concord's libraries, and we intend to bring in instructors with expertise from across Vaelora."
Serenya smiled, but her expression grew thoughtful.
"Would there be opportunities to practice healing as well? Before the Descent, I was helping at a healing house in Thalenwood. I don't want to spend years studying without actually helping anyone."
"The Concord maintains healing facilities that care for people beyond those who live here. Students with appropriate training may be permitted to assist under supervision."
"That would be wonderful."
Rokhan, who had been listening quietly, raised his head.
"Healers?"
Elowen turned toward him.
"Yes. The Concord has experienced healers and facilities for treating a variety of conditions."
Rokhan hesitated.
"Do they take care of sick people who aren't students?"
"Of course."
He looked down at his hands.
Serenya glanced toward him, noticing the sudden interest, but he said nothing more.
Garran took the opportunity to explain that the academy would also provide physical and combat training suited to each student's abilities.
Silas looked toward him.
"Would we be training with students from the other Dominions?"
"When appropriate. Some instruction will be shared, while more advanced training will depend on your individual abilities."
Silas nodded.
"Sounds interesting."
Vaelor glanced toward him.
"Already looking forward to it?"
"A little."
"Good."
Tova raised her hand.
"Speaking of training, are we actually allowed to use those workshops, or are they just going to make us read about how everything works?"
Torren looked toward her.
"You will have access to the workshops, but there will be rules governing their use. Some of the equipment is extremely valuable, and certain experiments require supervision."
"How am I supposed to learn if I can't experiment?"
"You can experiment," Torren answered patiently. "You simply cannot dismantle unfamiliar machinery or conduct dangerous experiments without first understanding what you're doing."
Tova frowned.
"That's usually how I figure out what I'm doing."
Veska leaned toward her.
"I've tried that argument. It doesn't work here."
Torren gave her a weary look.
"Because the equipment you damaged is still being repaired."
"That was one time."
"Three."
Veska considered correcting him, then decided against it.
Tova looked between them.
"I think I'm going to like this place."
Elowen smiled faintly before returning her attention to the Blessed.
"There will be other arrangements to consider, including accommodations and opportunities to visit your homes. We understand that many of you have lives and responsibilities beyond the Concord, and we intend to take those into account wherever possible."
Rokhan looked up again.
"Can she come?"
His voice was quiet, but it carried clearly through the chamber.
Elowen turned toward him.
"I'm sorry?"
"My sister. If I stay here, can she come with me?"
Elowen hesitated.
"The academy's student residences are intended for enrolled students. Family members would ordinarily remain in their home Dominions, although visits could certainly be arranged."
Rokhan's expression did not change.
"Then where would she stay?"
"Does she currently live with you?"
"Yes."
"May I ask how old she is?"
"Twelve."
Several members of the Council exchanged glances.
Elowen leaned forward slightly.
"She's only twelve?"
Rokhan nodded.
"And you're responsible for her?"
"Yes."
"Are your parents unable to care for her?"
Rokhan's hands tightened against his knees.
"We don't have any."
Elowen's expression softened.
"I see. I'm sorry."
Rokhan said nothing.
She waited a moment before continuing.
"Is there anyone else looking after her?"
"Someone's helping while I'm here."
"Someone you trust?"
"Yes."
"And would that person be able to continue caring for her while you attend the academy?"
Rokhan shook his head.
"No."
Garran leaned forward.
"Rokhan, the academy is being established to prepare you for the Trials. We understand that leaving your family may be difficult, but many students will have responsibilities and people they care about back home. We cannot simply bring every student's relatives into the Concord."
Rokhan looked toward him.
"I'm not leaving her."
The High Commander held his gaze.
"No one is asking you to abandon her. There may be arrangements that can be made in Gravann, perhaps through your Guardian or the institutions responsible for supporting the Blessed."
Rokhan shook his head again.
"She stays with me."
Garran's expression hardened slightly.
"You need to understand that the Trials will demand sacrifices. There may be times when you cannot remain beside her, regardless of where she lives."
"I know."
"Then surely you understand why we cannot make every decision around your personal circumstances."
Rokhan stood.
"Then I'm not going."
The words were spoken without anger.
There was no raised voice, no threat, and no attempt to persuade anyone.
He simply stood there, looking toward the Council as though the matter had already been settled.
Mira felt her breath catch.
Until that moment, the academy had seemed like an opportunity the Blessed would naturally accept. Tova wanted the workshops, Elyra wanted the archives, and the others had all shown some interest in the training being offered.
She hadn't considered that one of them might refuse.
Tova turned toward Rokhan.
"Rokhan?"
He didn't answer.
Elowen remained seated.
"Would you tell me something?"
Rokhan looked toward her.
"What?"
"Is your sister ill?"
He hesitated.
Then nodded.
"Yes."
"Has she been ill for long?"
"A while."
"Does she require regular treatment?"
"Yes."
Elowen glanced toward Serah, then returned her attention to Rokhan.
"And you've been taking care of her?"
Rokhan nodded.
"Since before the Descent?"
"Yes."
Vorga leaned forward.
"She's been sick for years. Rokhan's been looking after her for most of that time, and he doesn't trust anyone else to take responsibility for her."
Rokhan's expression tightened.
"I promised."
Elowen looked back toward him.
"To take care of her?"
He nodded.
"Then that promise matters."
Garran turned toward her.
"First Keeper, I understand his circumstances, but we cannot establish an exception every time someone objects to the academy's arrangements."
Tanila looked toward him.
"His sister is twelve."
"I heard."
"And ill."
"I heard that as well."
"Then perhaps you should consider what it means to ask him to leave her behind."
Garran's jaw tightened.
"I'm considering what it means to prepare seven Blessed for three unprecedented Trials. We cannot ignore that responsibility."
"Nor can we ignore theirs," Tanila replied.
Elowen raised one hand before the disagreement could continue.
"Both of you have made your positions clear."
She turned toward Rokhan.
"Rokhan, if we could arrange for your sister to live here at the Concord, would you be willing to attend the academy?"
He watched her.
"Can she stay with me?"
Elowen glanced toward Serah.
The High Steward had already begun reviewing a set of documents.
"We maintain residential accommodations for visiting families and long term guests," Serah explained. "Some of those residences are close enough to the academy that Rokhan could return to his sister after training, while still remaining within the Concord's grounds."
Rokhan looked toward her.
"Together?"
"Yes. There are accommodations suitable for two people."
Elowen nodded.
"Then I believe we can arrange that."
Serah raised a hand slightly.
"The residence itself shouldn't be difficult to arrange. However, if his sister requires ongoing medical treatment, we will need to coordinate with the healers and ensure that her needs can be met consistently. We should also establish who will be responsible for her during the hours Rokhan is occupied."
Rokhan remained standing.
"And her medicine?"
"The Concord has healers and medical facilities," Elowen answered. "We would have them examine her condition and determine what treatment she requires. If she is already receiving medicine, we would review it before making any changes."
Rokhan considered that.
Then he asked another question.
"What happens when I'm training?"
Elowen tilted her head.
"What do you mean?"
"She'll be alone."
Serah looked up from her documents.
"She wouldn't need to be. We could arrange for someone to remain with her during the day, preferably an attendant with medical experience."
Rokhan frowned.
"Who?"
"That would need to be decided. I would prefer to assign someone consistently rather than have different people looking after her every day. It would be easier for her to become comfortable with someone familiar."
Rokhan looked unconvinced.
Vorga spoke.
"She doesn't know anyone here."
Serah nodded.
"That is true."
Rokhan continued.
"And there'll be older people everywhere."
Elowen regarded him for a moment.
He was not merely concerned about leaving his sister unattended. He was being asked to bring a sick twelve year old girl into an enormous institution filled with unfamiliar adults, soldiers, priests, and soon students from across Vaelora.
To him, the Concord was not a place of safety simply because the Council said it was.
Elowen turned toward Garran.
"Could the Templars assign someone to accompany her?"
Garran considered the request.
"A personal guard?"
"Someone responsible for her safety while Rokhan is occupied with training. Preferably a person experienced with children, and someone she can become familiar with before classes begin."
Garran folded his arms.
"I can assign someone, but I would want their responsibilities clearly established. They would be there to protect and accompany her, not to replace the attendant or the healers."
"That would be appropriate," Serah agreed. "The attendant can handle her daily needs, while the Templar ensures she can move about safely."
Garran looked toward Rokhan.
"Would that satisfy your concerns?"
Rokhan hesitated.
"Would they stay with her?"
"During the hours you're unavailable, yes. They would accompany her when she leaves the residence, ensure she doesn't wander into restricted areas, and remain nearby if she needs assistance."
"And if she's sick?"
"She would be taken to the healers immediately. Her attendant would also be familiar with her treatment."
Rokhan looked toward Elowen.
"Can I meet them first?"
"Of course," she answered. "And so can your sister. If she's uncomfortable with the person assigned to her, we can discuss another arrangement."
Garran nodded.
"I'll select someone suitable. There are several Templars who have experience caring for younger children, although I'll need time to speak with them and determine who can take on the responsibility."
Serah closed her documents.
"And I'll coordinate with the healers and arrange a residence. We can begin preparing everything once we have more information about her condition."
Elowen looked toward Rokhan.
"Those arrangements will take some time, but we can make them. You and your sister will be able to live together here, and we'll ensure that she has people to help her when you're occupied."
Rokhan slowly lowered himself back into his chair.
For several moments, he said nothing.
Then he nodded.
"Okay."
Vorga leaned back, visibly relieved.
Serenya leaned toward Rokhan.
"If you'd like, I could meet your sister too. I'm still learning, but I know some healing techniques. I wouldn't want to interfere with her treatment, though perhaps there's something I could help with."
Rokhan looked toward her.
For a moment, he seemed unsure how to respond.
Then he nodded.
"Maybe."
Serenya smiled.
"Whenever you're comfortable."
"Thanks."
Tova leaned toward him from the other side.
"You should've told us you had a sister. What's her name?"
Rokhan looked at her.
He hesitated, apparently unaccustomed to being asked about something so personal by people he had only just met.
Then he answered quietly.
"I'll introduce you when she gets here."
Tova grinned.
"Fair enough."
Mira watched the exchange with a strange warmth in her chest.
They had known one another for only a few hours, yet Serenya had offered to help someone she had never met simply because Rokhan cared about her.
It was a small thing.
Somehow, it felt more important than many of the grand declarations Mira had heard in the Concord's temples.
Elowen looked around the seven Blessed.
"Are there any other concerns you would like to raise?"
Kaelric glanced toward Rokhan before returning his attention to the Council.
"I have a few questions about the accommodations. Will the students have private rooms?"
"Yes," Serah answered. "We intend to provide individual rooms for the Blessed, although other students may have shared accommodations depending on availability."
"And will those rooms actually be private?"
Serah looked at him.
"Could you clarify?"
"Will someone be permitted to enter whenever they please, or will we be allowed to decide who comes and goes?"
Garran answered.
"Staff may need access for maintenance or emergencies, but no one will be permitted to enter without a legitimate reason. The academy will have rules governing those matters."
Kaelric smiled.
"Good. I do enjoy having a door that serves its intended purpose."
Sair watched him for a moment but said nothing.
Elowen turned toward Cael.
"And you, Cael? Is there anything you would like to ask?"
Cael straightened slightly.
"Nothing that would prevent me from attending, First Keeper. I believe the academy offers an excellent opportunity, and I would be honored to participate in a program that helps us fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to us."
His answer came smoothly, accompanied by the same courteous smile he had maintained throughout the meeting.
Elowen nodded.
"I'm glad you see its value. But I don't want any of you to feel that you must make a decision simply because the Council believes this academy is necessary."
She looked toward the seven.
"You have all been chosen for responsibilities that none of you requested. We cannot change that, but we can at least ensure that you have a voice in how you prepare for them."
Tova leaned forward.
"So we can decide whether we want to attend?"
"Yes."
"And if we don't?"
"Then we would discuss other arrangements. Our hope is that you will choose to remain here, but we do not intend to force that decision upon you."
Tova considered the answer.
"That's better than I expected."
Torren looked toward her.
"What exactly were you expecting?"
"More rules."
Veska smiled.
"There will be plenty of those."
Tova sighed.
Elowen allowed the conversation to settle before speaking again.
"Perhaps it would be best if you had a little time to discuss the matter among yourselves. The Council can withdraw for a short recess, and your Guardians will remain nearby if you need them."
She glanced toward the other Council members.
No one objected.
Orren rose first, followed by the others.
Mira stepped aside as they moved toward one of the chamber's passages.
Elowen stopped beside her.
"Mira, would you remain with our guests?"
"Of course, First Keeper."
"Thank you."
The Council departed.
The Guardians moved toward the outer seats, leaving the Blessed together near the center of the chamber.
For a little while, nobody spoke.
Then Tova leaned back.
"Well, I'm going."
Kaelric looked toward her.
"I don't believe anyone doubted that."
"They have workshops, old machines, and probably enough materials to build whatever I want. Why wouldn't I?"
"Rules," Silas said.
Tova frowned.
"Don't remind me."
Elyra tilted her head.
"I intend to attend as well. The archives alone would justify the decision, although I am also interested in meeting students from the other Dominions. I have encountered relatively few people my own age outside Isoryn."
Tova looked toward her.
"Then you'll meet plenty here."
"I believe so. I am curious how different their experiences will be from my own."
Kaelric smiled.
"Very different, I'd imagine."
Elyra considered that.
"I hope so."
Serenya looked toward Rokhan.
"Are you feeling better about everything?"
He nodded.
"She can come."
"I'm glad. I was worried when you stood up."
Rokhan glanced toward the doors through which the Council had departed.
"They wanted me to leave her."
"They didn't understand your situation at first," Serenya replied. "But they listened."
Rokhan considered that.
Then he nodded again.
Silas leaned back in his chair.
"Seems like they can be reasonable when they want to be."
Tova looked toward him.
"You're really just fine with moving here?"
Silas glanced around the chamber.
"It's a nice place. The training sounds interesting, and I've never spent much time outside Eldranveil."
"That's it? No big reason?"
He shrugged.
"Do I need one?"
"I guess not."
"Then that's my answer."
Kaelric looked toward the enormous pillars.
"I'll admit, I'm curious about what they'll do with students from seven different Dominions all living together. Some of those people probably haven't met anyone outside their own homeland."
"That's part of what makes it interesting," Elyra replied. "Their experiences and perspectives will differ considerably."
"Exactly. I'm looking forward to seeing how long it takes before someone starts an argument over whose God is the greatest."
Tova grinned.
"Probably the first day."
Serenya gave them both a disapproving look.
"I'd hope people would be more respectful than that."
Kaelric smiled.
"So would I."
Tova turned toward Cael.
"And you?"
Cael glanced around the group before straightening slightly in his chair.
"I believe attending would be the responsible choice. The academy offers resources that could help us prepare for the Trials, and studying alongside talented individuals from the other Dominions would be an invaluable opportunity."
Kaelric tilted his head.
"There it is again."
Cael looked toward him.
"What?"
"The speech. You really do have an answer prepared for everything, don't you?"
Cael smiled politely.
"I simply believe it's important to consider these matters carefully. We're representing our respective Gods, after all."
"Of course, of course. Wouldn't want the Gods catching us saying something foolish."
Tova laughed, while Serenya gave Kaelric a mildly disapproving look.
"I think Cael makes a good point," she said. "We should take this seriously, even if we're all a little nervous about what comes next."
"I'm taking it very seriously," Kaelric replied, placing a hand against his chest. "I fully intend to make the most of this opportunity."
Tova narrowed her eyes.
"Why does that sound like you're planning something?"
"Because you have a suspicious mind."
"Because you keep saying suspicious things."
Kaelric smiled but offered no further explanation.
Cael allowed himself a quiet laugh before returning his attention to the group.
"Regardless, I think this is our best opportunity to prepare. If we're going to face the Trials together, it would make sense for us to begin learning together as well."
Elyra nodded thoughtfully.
"That is reasonable. We currently know very little about one another's abilities, and cooperation may become necessary depending on the nature of the Trials."
Silas leaned back in his chair.
"Then we might as well get used to being around each other."
Tova looked around the circle.
"So that's everyone, right? We're all going?"
Elyra nodded.
"I would like to."
Serenya smiled.
"So would I."
Rokhan nodded.
Silas raised one hand slightly.
Kaelric gave an exaggerated sigh.
"I suppose I can't let all of you have the fun without me."
Tova turned toward Cael.
"And you're definitely coming?"
Cael inclined his head with a reassuring smile.
"Of course. I wouldn't dream of missing such an opportunity."
"Great!" Tova clapped her hands together. "Then we're all going."
Kaelric looked toward her.
"That was remarkably easy."
"Don't ruin it."
"I wouldn't dream of it."
Mira watched them from a short distance away.
Seven Blessed.
Seven people chosen by the Gods themselves.
And somehow, their decision had been reached through a conversation that sounded remarkably similar to a group of ordinary students deciding whether to attend the same school.
She wondered whether that was what Elowen had hoped would happen.
Perhaps it was.
A few minutes later, the Council returned.
The quiet conversations among the Blessed gradually faded as Elowen and the other Council members took their seats. Garran glanced toward the seven teenagers, seemingly attempting to determine whether their discussion had been productive, while Serah gathered the documents she had left upon her desk.
Elowen remained standing.
"I hope we've given you enough time to consider our proposal. I understand that this is not a small decision, especially when you've only just arrived at the Concord. If any of you require more time, we would be willing to discuss that."
Tova glanced toward the others before raising her hand.
Elowen smiled.
"Yes, Tova?"
"We've already decided. All seven of us."
A few members of the Council exchanged surprised looks.
Elowen's expression softened.
"And what have you decided?"
Tova looked toward the others, suddenly realizing that she had volunteered herself to speak for everyone.
"Well, we're going."
Kaelric leaned forward with a smile.
"Such an inspiring announcement. I almost feel like applauding."
"You can do it yourself next time," Tova muttered.
Elowen chuckled before looking toward the others.
"Is that how all of you feel?"
Cael rose from his chair.
"Yes, First Keeper. We've discussed the opportunity you've presented, and we believe attending the academy would be the best way for us to prepare for the Trials. We understand that there are still many uncertainties ahead, but we would be honored to accept the Concord's invitation."
He bowed respectfully.
Elowen returned the gesture with a slight inclination of her head.
"Thank you, Cael."
Her gaze moved across the remaining Blessed.
"Does anyone disagree?"
No one spoke.
Silas gave a small nod, and Serenya smiled. Elyra inclined her head in agreement, while Tova looked impatient to hear what would happen next.
Kaelric simply raised a hand in acknowledgment.
Elowen turned toward Rokhan.
"And you, Rokhan?"
He looked toward her.
"My sister can stay?"
Elowen nodded.
"As we discussed. We'll arrange suitable accommodations for both of you, and Garran and Serah will coordinate the people responsible for helping her while you're occupied with training."
Rokhan considered her answer for a moment before nodding.
"Then I'll stay."
Vorga folded his arms with a satisfied grunt.
Elowen looked around the chamber, allowing herself a moment to take in the seven Blessed seated before her.
"Then it's settled."
She placed both hands upon the desk.
"On behalf of the Concord and its Council, I welcome all seven of you to the academy. There is still much that must be prepared before we can formally begin, but I can assure you that we will do everything within our power to provide you with the education and training you deserve."
Her gaze moved toward the Guardians.
"And I hope we can count on your continued cooperation."
Korin inclined his head.
"You have mine."
Tanila nodded.
"Provided the promises made here today are honored."
"They will be," Elowen assured her.
Vorga leaned back in his chair.
"As long as the boy gets fed properly, I don't see a problem."
Kaelric glanced toward Rokhan.
"See? I told you they were worried about the food."
Rokhan looked toward him.
"I'm hungry."
That earned another round of laughter.
Veska crossed her arms.
"I'd also appreciate access to those workshops you mentioned earlier. Preferably before Tova decides to find them herself."
Tova opened her mouth to protest, then thought better of it.
Torren sighed.
"We'll discuss that."
Oria gave a quiet nod of agreement, while Vaelor merely raised one hand from his seat.
Elowen smiled at the responses before turning toward the Council.
"Then I believe we have accomplished what we gathered here to discuss."
Garran rose.
"There are still arrangements to finalize. The students will require accommodations, instructors must be informed, and their initial assessments will need to be scheduled."
"And all of that can begin tomorrow," Elowen replied. "For now, I believe our guests have had a long enough day."
Garran considered arguing, but after glancing toward the seven teenagers, he simply nodded.
"Very well."
Orren rose from his seat and looked toward Mira.
"Mira, would you be willing to accompany our guests to their accommodations?"
She immediately straightened.
"Of course, Grandfather."
"Thank you. Their rooms have already been prepared, and someone will be available to assist with anything they require."
Mira bowed before turning toward the Blessed.
"If everyone is ready, I'll show you where you'll be staying."
Tova was already on her feet.
"Finally! Are we going to see more of the Concord on the way?"
Mira smiled.
"A little."
"Good enough."
The others began rising from their seats. Serenya thanked Elowen before joining Mira, while Elyra took one final look around the enormous chamber, as though attempting to commit every detail to memory.
Silas followed without complaint, and Kaelric continued speaking to Tova about what they might discover in the academy's workshops.
Rokhan paused beside Vorga.
The enormous Orc placed a hand upon his shoulder.
"We'll get your sister here."
Rokhan looked up at him.
"Soon?"
"Soon."
Rokhan nodded, then followed the others.
Cael was the last to leave. Before stepping away, he turned toward the Council and bowed once more.
"Thank you for having us, First Keeper. We look forward to learning everything the Concord has to offer."
Elowen returned his bow.
"We look forward to seeing what all of you accomplish."
Korin watched Cael join the others as they approached the enormous doors. The young Blessed walked with the same straight posture and measured steps he had maintained throughout the meeting, exchanging a few polite words with Serenya before disappearing into the passage beyond.
One by one, the Seven Blessed left the chamber.
Mira followed them, and the doors slowly closed behind her.
For several moments, the Council and Guardians remained silent.
Then Sair leaned back in his chair.
"Well, that went better than I expected."
Garran looked toward him.
"You expected them to refuse?"
"Not all of them. But I certainly expected more arguing."
"We had plenty of that already," Veska remarked.
"Mostly from you," Torren muttered.
Veska smiled.
Elowen allowed the exchange to pass before looking toward the closed doors.
"They're younger than any Blessed we've recorded, and we've asked them to prepare for something even we don't fully understand. Yet despite everything they've learned today, all seven have agreed to trust us."
Her expression grew thoughtful.
"I hope we prove worthy of that trust."
Orren stood beside her, resting both hands upon his cane.
"We cannot promise them certainty, Elowen. But we can give them a place to learn, people willing to guide them, and the opportunity to decide what kind of individuals they wish to become."
Elowen nodded slowly.
Beyond the chamber doors, their voices continued to echo through the passage. Tova was already questioning Mira about the Concord's mechanisms, while Kaelric offered explanations that were almost certainly incorrect. Their laughter gradually faded as the group disappeared farther into the building.
Elowen remained beside Orren, looking toward the doors through which the Blessed had departed. Seven young people had arrived from seven different Dominions, each carrying expectations that would have overwhelmed most adults.
For the first time since the Descent, they would not have to face those expectations alone.