A hush fell over the entirety of Ossibuz, and even the hardened battle-commanders were gripped by a quiet astonishment. They questioned why Matar had prolonged the strife, when a swift and decisive war might have settled the matter. Thus, the most senior Ossibian lords convened a council, with the most vital advisors in attendance.
"What madness is this?" demanded Fhajo, and though his words were sharp as a honed blade, he commanded respect in this land. He was the son of Sapar and Matar's half-brother by their shared father. Whispers claimed that Fhajo was more worthy to sit upon the Ossibian throne, and had it not been for Sapar's decree, the Ossibians might well have chosen him as their king. Sapar's reign had been steeped in brutal violence.
