Élua

Demenik opened the door and looked into the dark hallway, smiling at the four men who waited outside. "Come in and take a seat, gentlemen."

Demenik walked to the rectangular wooden table and sat down at the head chair. Mouse and Stick sat on his left while Oak and the doctor took the seats on his right. The small room was located underneath one of the buildings owned by Demenik. Guttering light flickered from torches placed in black iron holders in the flagstone walls around the room's perimeter. Four brown leather bags, each closed securely by a piece of gold wire sat on the table in front of each of the four men.

"I have never been one for ceremony," Demenik said, "but tonight must contain a small touch of formality. In order to keep this brief, I ask that you listen quietly and not interrupt with questions."

He paused and each man nodded. "The bags in front of you are filled with platinum coin and, as of this moment, they belong to you. Congratulations, gentlemen, you are now wealthier than most monarchs. Your children's children need never work a day in their lives to earn money."

Demenik watched their reactions, smiling as even Mouse raised his eyebrows in surprise. "The primary reason for an average person's entire existence, from the time they are born until they die, is to earn enough money to meet the demands of life. Now that this is no longer a concern for you I ask the question: what will you do for the remainder of yours?"

Demenik stood and walked to a small table in the corner which held a crystal decanter filled with dark red wine and five glasses. He carried the items back to the table, setting a glass in front of each man and filling them. "I see the world differently than most." He raised his glass. "When I look at this city, kingdom, country, and even the world as a whole, I see room for improvement. I have a vision for a new way, a new world order. I plan to change the world, and I would have you help me do it.

"My goal is lofty and will require decades, perhaps centuries to bring about. I invite you and your ancestors to join me in this endeavour. If you would join the cause, then drink with me now."

There was no hesitation, no exchange of glances between the men assembled. As one, they stood, raised their glasses, and drank.

Demenik drained his glass and set it on the table, smiling as he moved to hug each of them before returning to his chair. "Secrecy in our mission is key, perhaps the most difficult, yet important thing to maintain. Only the head of each of our families can ever know the burden that we have agreed to carry this night. Am I clear on this?"

Everyone nodded.

"Well then." Demenik smiled and leaned back in his chair. "That covers the formal part of this meeting. This group may end up growing as time passes. In my mind, I see thirteen chairs around a table, but our numbers will grow when the time is right. For now, we begin with five Élua, which is a number of good omen."

"Élua?" The doctor stroked his beard. "That is an ancient word meaning'chosen', if I am not mistaken."

Demenik poured more wine. "You're correct, Doctor. It is a name that suits us well, I think."