Volturnum

Volturnum, 20th Day of Winter Court 1197,

The Traveller had been lost for a long time. The world was no longer the same. The Celestial Order was different. The earth it trod was no longer suffused with the Taint. Things had indeed changed. It felt part of its essence far to the north. And it slowly altered its path accordingly...

Shiro Ide, 20th Day of Winter Court 1197,

Master Coin took a sip of the sake. He savoured it for a moment "Excellent! Most excellent indeed! And you say you can arrange a supply for the sakes houses? And at less than cost? The Coin Sect thanks you." With a nod, the merchant bowed deeply and left.

Master Coin turned to his colleague "And what of the crops that have yet to ripen?"

"There are a number of fruits which are nearing the time of harvest my lord. There are two in the Imperial College that I am particularly interested in."

The Kolat Master smiled, easy and beguiling it was known to put even the most fierce opponent at ease. "And have you made a move yet?"

"No lord, as yet they are not as you say 'ripe for plucking' but the winter is long and we do not hurry."

"Just remember to exercise caution, the Net is ever watchful as are the Scorpion."

The conspirators finished their sake in contemplative silence. And the Kolat conspiracy took another step forward.