Emperor Ikurei Xerius III, is preparing for a major audience in the Imperial Audience Hall. He’s discussing the course to take with Skeaös, an old slave and Xerius’ Prime Counsel. Xerius hints that his nephew, Conphas, is on a dangerous and important mission. Skeaös tries to sooth the Emperor’s nerves. Xerius notices something strange about Skeaös, even though he’s not sure what it is.