Great Hall of Nalav
Late Spring, Seventy-fourth Year of the Phoenix

It was unseasonably warm in Aran Viska, the heat creating an almost oppressive atmosphere as the envoys of foreign powers approached the remote hall of Tanrak Nalavan, Aranin of All Viskari. Despite the vibrant colours of the thick carpets of wildflowers that flanked the road and the singing of small songbirds amidst the foliage, the Viskari guides seemed reserved and guarded, their usually hospitable nature dampened by the nature of the impending council.

The Aranin's hall was built in a clearing in the midst of an ancient grove of conifers, many of which had silver charms and ribbons hanging from their branches. Banners of blue and red hung from the entrance towers and beyond the gate was a paved court with the hall itself standing opposite. Like all Viskari Halls it was a finely crafted building adorned with charms and carvings, including a large silver crescent over the main door. But the doors were closed and there was no sound of music or merriment from within. Instead it seemed a table had been set up outside with three Viskari seated at the head in ornate chairs.

At the left was the Aranin, Tanrak Nalavan. His chest was bare and he wore a long cape of bear fur despite the heat, though the head was down. His greying hair was braided with golden wire and he said nothing as his golden yellow eyes surveyed the arrivals. On the right was a Viskari in a red hooded cloak with a silver skull mask that concealed their identity entirely. Between them was a Viskari woman of advanced years. She was wrapped in woven shawls as though the Sun did nothing to warm her. She watched each arrival with a single red eye, the other completely milky white. When it came time for the meeting to begin she stood with the help of the two Viskari flanking her.

"Noble Lords and Ladies of Tarandi..." she said in a soft voice that nevertheless carried to all in attendance, "I am Variza, Sarak of Aer Caladon and Eldest of the Moot and we have been gathered here to discuss a matter of grave importance. I speak, of course, of the Agent of Ruin. We of the Viskari feel that a united response to rid Tarandi of this threat is in order."