Chapter 184: Volume 4 - Prologue
In a hidden place, in a dark room, five of the six devices began to light themselves as the holders of their keys prepared to meet.
The room had a single occupant, and each of those meeting today was likewise alone in their respective sanctums.
Five of the six showed robed figures, each with a white mask, marked with elements, and each was distorted to appear equal in height.
"Where is Lictor?" one spoke, their mask marked with the symbol of Stone. Their voice was distorted as well, carefully degendered by the complex magics that enabled them all to meet from far away.
"Lictor has yet to report, Praetor," replied the one marked for Fire. "I understand their city was likewise targeted for a siege, but unlike Aedile’s, Lictor’s was the true target, at least if Maledict’s presence was any indication."
"We were all fooled, Curiate" spoke the mask marked with darkness. "Duke Heresy is a clever demon, and we lost much in the way of knowledge and resources... Though I understand Lictor kept copies of the most important tomes outside of that place."
The one with a mask marked for Air spoke to Darkness. "Quaestor, that place was our outpost, small enough to stay below consideration but prestigious enough to attract talent. Recruitment will be far more fraught now that Heaven moves to rebuild. What if they choose to have a hand in the new Academy?"
"What are you suggesting, Aedile?" asked the one marked for Water.
"Withdraw Lictor. Have them take up a position in a colony. Perhaps send them to the east."
The one marked Water hissed their disapproval. "Out of the question. They have accomplished more where they are than many of us have done across a dozen cities. As long as Heaven does not suspect, and Hell does not pull any surprises, I say we trust Lictor."
"Interrex, do not allow your personal feelings to cloud your judgment," Quaestor cautioned. "We will send an agent. Assuming Lictor did as advised and retained the hybrid, we shall soon see if-"