Interlude - Further Concerns

The four Zakkili strolled between the flowering trees of the orchard in the warm sunlight of the Zakkil summer.

“The suvethi trees are gorgeous, my dear Seven. I find myself enchanted each time you invite us here,” Three said, looking around at the blossoms surrounding them.

“They were a chore to import, but I find them worth the trouble it took my servants,” the woman replied smugly. “Having fresh suvethi nearly year-round is simply a delight.”

“I’ll not disagree,” Two said, her gaze finding a nearby Kelrana woman who was currently climbing among the branches of one of the trees, appraising and picking the ripest fruits. “However, I must express my concern about discussing our business near non-Zakkili, servants or otherwise.”

“Fret not, Two.” Seven smiled at the woman, her eyes glinting. “They have all been Pressed into complete silence and secrecy. They cannot even speak unless a member of my House instructs them to.”

“Thorough as always, Seven,” Three chuckled. “Though a somewhat risky indulgence simply to maintain an orchard.”

“Crown auditors would not dare to probe into a High House’s internal affairs so lightly. And it does make for a rather nice background to talk business,” One relented.

“That business being the fall of House Freika and the reordering of Kelran, of course?” Seven asked.

“Just so.” One nodded. “The planet is now in a far more stable condition, with the ousting of Tekelli and Freika. The world will become stronger, as will the Monarchy as a whole.”

“It was worth staging the attacks on Kelran infrastructure over the past measure.” Two smirked. “As well as arming Freika and their little pet mercenaries.”

“If there is one downside to the affair, it would be the loss of the facility on Grace Eridi Zii.” Seven skirted around a low branch. “A notable setback.”

“True. There are other facilities, but that one was producing the most promising results,” One said, her hands clasped behind her back.

“Because Freika was snatching women off the street so frequently that even Kelran’s fool governor noticed,” scoffed Three. “Still, it does leave a sour taste in one’s mouth to think of all the funds wasted backing the House.”

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“It is for the best,” One replied calmly. “Sivena was a fool, and had started to ask for favors she had not earned nor deserved. Nalyra has dealt with the problem for us.”

“Nalyra…” Three said thoughtfully. “Another interesting factor.”

“You mean her Shield Consort?” sneered Two. “I had not imagined her capable of such a thing.”

“Does it change our course regarding the Crown Daughter?” asked Seven.

“I should think not.” One shook her head. “Regardless, we would need a majority to make such a decision — not enough of the circle is present.”

“But that does bring up another matter.” Three paused to pull a blossom from one of the low-hanging branches. “The assassination attempt on the Ydani.”

“It was not sanctioned,” One stated, her face stern. “There was no consensus among the circle for the act.”

“Are we sure it was even our agent?” Seven asked. “Perhaps an assassin sent by one of the shamed Houses? A last, petty act of defiance?”

“No,” Two cut in. “I have seen the preliminary reports from the capital complex. The attacker used our technology, our methods. I have no doubt in my mind that this was one of ours.”

“I bow to your expertise, madam.” Three gave the woman a mock bow, a grin on his face.

“Targeting the Ydani as well,” Two continued. “This reeks of Five’s handiwork. Her ridiculous xenophobia and petty hatred.”

“Should the circle move to discipline her?” Seven asked.

“We cannot.” One stopped, and the three others turned to look at her. “Regardless of whether this was done by her order, Five has already been dispatched to oversee our next move. We cannot recall her without causing undue suspicion. This was no great loss, but we will confirm her involvement, and deal with this indiscretion of hers upon her return.”

“I do hope the woman does not overstep again.” Three gave a dramatic sigh. “I still have my reservations about leaving this task to her supervision.”

“It could not be helped,” One said. “She was the only member of the circle who was in position to take advantage of this opportunity. I am not overly worried. For all her faults, the woman produces results when needed.”

“Then, all that’s left are the remaining preparations, no?” Two looked to Seven.

“It is already done. My contacts have spread the images and translated flyers without attracting attention.” The woman wore a self-satisfied grin.

“Then the stage is set,” One said calmly. “And we have nothing further to discuss this day.”

“Quite so,” agreed Three. “Now then, dear Seven, about this wine tasting you have prepared…”

“I think you will find it quite enjoyable, friend.” The woman’s expression and tone transformed instantly, as the group moved back toward the party. She gave him a warm smile. “I have gathered vintages from across the Monarchy.”

Now chatting like old friends, the four Zakkili disappeared back into the party gathered beyond the orchard’s entrance.

End of Act III