"Everyone, our clan has weathered more than 6,800 years. We can dispense with formalities here. You are all core members of the Cabrolon clan, and we will discuss the clan's future development." The family head, Phil-Cabrolon, delivered a brief, concise opening statement.
Patrick and his elder brother Patterson sat on either side of their father, Phil-Cabrolon. Patterson rose and continued, "Now that Patrick has successfully been appointed a Silvermoon Councilor, our family's endeavors have taken a tremendous leap forward. Together, we will make the Cabrolon clan flourish in Silvermoon City."
Patterson had been the happiest of all upon learning that his younger brother Patrick had successfully advanced to the Seventh Circle. Their brotherly affection sprang from the strongest ties of blood. Back in the Mage Tower, the brothers had always helped each other and studied together. His elder brother had already lived through ten centuries and had watched Patrick grow up from birth, so their bond was naturally exceptional.
"Everyone, I'm sure you all know about the fief His Majesty Anasterian granted us. Part of it is the Life Forest, and we will share that land with the Windrunners."
"Vast as that land is, Patrick and Windrunner conquered it together. Besides, the Life Forest used to be occupied by trolls and is essentially undeveloped land. Now that Pat has reached the Seventh Circle and become a councilor, those old fellows on the Council have turned around and granted Patrick the territory we already controlled. What a clever little scheme," his sister-in-law, Nasalan Cabrolon, said indignantly.
At Patrick's request, Nasalan Cabrolon had led everyone to survey the Life Forest in person and worked alongside the Windrunner family's team to develop the still-barren forest. Now the Council had simply handed ownership of the Life Forest to Patrick. Apparently, the Council even wanted