The Volpe, the fox, speaks her mind, "We need you to uncover who amongst us has broken the code. The roots of The Five run deep in Thrace. If we were to investigate the matter ourselves, none would trust the other's findings so we need an impartial judge, such as yourselves."

"And in return, you will have your witch," says the Amiese. "By tomorrow night, at the Curiate Assembly, we will expect your conclusion."

At the far end of the string of thrones, the black serpentine mask speaks. "They should be told of Rubeo," the Pytone says, his 'r's rolling.

"He's a ghost story the Faceless like to tell themselves," says the dog faced Carnedine.

"A ghost story that has killed more of us than you would like to admit," adds the Pytone.

"I have seen the teardrop mask myself, Carnedine," bites the Lignja.

"If you had, you wouldn't be here," begins the Volpe. "Whether a ghost or not, he works to thwart our improvement of Thrace while killing us where he can." You ask whether this Rubeo could be responsible for the Amiese's death but the Volpes mask shakes. "He works in spectacle, owning his crimes, little more than a thespian masquerading as a revolutionary. This is too subtle."

Nods from some of the Five accompany the Volpe's claim as the Amiese returns to the matter at hand. "The Five know who you are and will not impede your investigation. My son's body has been left to allow ratification by the other great families. Go to the Low Districts yourself, see him, see what you can divine, Oathsworn," says the Amiese. Then, all at once, The Five stand - some silent signal you never even noticed.