Chief Librarian Astrus Vail sat crossed legged in the gloom of his meditation chamber, the air thick with the fumes of burning Monolithic herbs. The chamber was lit by a few guttering candles suspended from the roof of the chamber several metres above him. Taking a handful of precious stones from a bowl he closed his eyes and slowed his breathing before casting the stones in front of him. He opened his eyes and took in the patterns the stone made. The air shifted uneasily and he grew worried. Time was soon running out, he had no idea when, but something must be done, for now he must consult the council.