You see a balcony overlooking a garden and Lake Xhama, off to the left, in the distance Illigyr Palace shining on the heights over the city, making the mist-filled garden appear even darker. Councillor Lirilim is led onto the balcony by an apparently high-ranking maid. "So, where is this uncultured, ill-mannered, and insistent foreigner you say wishes to see me, Mirin?" A breathy, unnatural voice speaks. "I am here, Lirilim." The maid Mirin drops in a boneless pile as if she were dead. The councillor pauses for a moment, then erupts in a righteous fury.