The charismatic man had Tasur'ke murmuring. For centuries the village had remained content under the traditional leadership of their elders. But Thelrey, a common citizen like themselves, was passionate and his arguments resonated with many of them. Thus, what began as mere town gossip soon gained traction and the council found themselves at risk of losing the village to Thelrey's volatile control.

Under the veil of darkness, a Tasur'ke elder fled to the city of Hashan in a desperate attempt to plead for their help. The situation was delicate, as the village's leadership-hopeful had successfully spread anti-Hashan propaganda in his bid for power. The Shadow Court, as a longheld ally, was the elder's best hope at maintaining control of his village. The Hashani, however, would also face skepticism and suspicion, thanks to Thelrey's contentions.

"I know there are those among you who are skilled in such delicate matters. Please, we must find a way to keep Tasur'ke out of Thelrey's control without making our interference obvious," the elder pleaded with Hashan's leaders.

And so a plan was hatched. Court of Shadows tapped into a heritage of espionage and influence as they worked quietly to turn the tide. Time was of the essence, as a vote loomed over Tasur'ke that could potentially put both Hashan and the village in a precarious position. Under the cover of night Thelrey's grab for power was thwarted, the majority of the villagers ultimately swayed away from him by whispered bargain and eloquent truth.

Ever aware of shifting powers and shrewd negotiations, the Dark Father descended upon Hashan for the first time in nearly a century to confer His approval upon the city for their cunning operation. The hushed tones of a silken voice echoed once more through the obsidian streets as Darkness embraced the land.

"Court of Shadows, I am pleased to see you have not forgotten how to wield your influence."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Summary: In order to preserve a key diplomatic alliance and thwart a political takeover, Hashan assisted the elders of Tasur'ke in maintaining control of their village. Twilight, God of Darkness, returned to bestow His favour upon them for their cunning tactics.


Penned by My hand on the 4th of Valnuary, in the year 929 AF.