The Council Chamber erupted into noise again.

There was a knock on the door and the babble ceased and a young man opened the door.

"There are people here who wish to speak to the Council."

"We are busy. Can they return later?"

"They say they are from Rakkikt."

There was dead silence for a moment before the Chair heaved a deep sigh.

"Bring them in," she said.

A man and a woman in clothes not much different than what Patrick's walked into the ...