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When the council met, Elendil asked them of their opinion on who should follow him on the throne.
The first one to speak was Axantur, Elendil cousin, who held the seat of Mittalmar. The seat closest to the King's throne.
He said, "My father gave me this seat, as he felt I was most suited for this task even though I was the last born. I, myself will follow his example, and point to the one of my children that resembles me most, regardless of age. I see in your son, the likeness of you, my King. He must be the most suitable then."
Neither the king nor the rest of the council found the words of Axantur impressive.
The king looked at Elatan of Andustar.
He said, "I have no doubt, my king, Silmarien would be my recommendation. In her, I see a deep love for Numenor. She will govern only with her heart, which is the most needed for a nation like Numenor that has everything. With her line on the throne, the ideals of Elros will be kept."
The words of Elatan weighted much higher in the mind of the King compared to those of his cousin.
Now Eradan of Forostar spoke; "The people of Forostar recommend you pass the scepter to your daughter Isilme. The heart can help you, but in times of change, the heart is blind, and the mind a better guide. Isilme is the cleverest of your children. If Numenor will experience change, her line will guide Numenor through these and Numenor will survive forever."
The King was equally impressed with Eradans speech as he was with that of Eladan. He was about to pass the word to Orrostar, when Veantur interrupted.
He said, "My King, allow me to speak! In this council, we have heard words of mind to who will serve Numenor best. However, this is not what we should seek! Our destiny is now united with that of Middle Earth. Our kinsmen there looks to us for answers and we must help them. It is no longer a question on who should advice the Numenoreans, but who should advice the people of Middle Earth. Our kinsmen is suffering from war and disease, but we have the means to heel them. I met with twelve of the of the leaders of the Edain of Eriador; they were all men, because only men, not women are strong enough to rule there. The truth is that anyone can rule Numenor, but only Irimon will be able to help Middle Earth."
The debate would continue, but the words of Veantur was not challenged
After Erulaitale the King asked his children to come to the Throne Room.
He King was standing when they entered. He held the scepter in his hand.
He walked to a table by the open vaults to the courtyard, and pickup an item.
He then approached Silmarien and said; "This is the ring of Barahir, a precious relic of the King. It is now yours, and for your family to hold on to. Never forget its history, as you pass it through generations. Then the people of Numenor will live on forever."
He placed the ring of Silmariens finger. Then he returned to the table and picked up another item.
He now walked to Isilme, "This is the bracelet of Haleth; this too is a relic of the King. It is now yours, and for your family to hold on to. Never forget its history, as you pass is though generations. The Numenor will remain forever.
He now addressed his son. "For you Irimon, I have nothing today, but in due time you will have the relic a now hold in by hand."
Irimon was as surprised as his sisters. All three of them immediately understood the consequences of their father's speech and actions. Irimon bowed and stammered; "Thanks father."
The King turned around and took a seat in his throne, and stated, "I expect you to honour my decision; it will not be changed! Never forget who you are and that you are family."
"You can leave now," he ended.
The siblings stood for a while the turned around walked down and out to the courtyard.
Both Silmarien and Isilme were deeply disappointed, but both have great love of both their father and brother.
Silmarien kissed Irimon on the forehead, and Isilme repeated that gesture.
Irimon was the first to speak, "What will you do now?" He asked both sisters.
Silmarien answered first, "I will travel to Andunie. I am positive that Elatan was a support for me, and I want to thanks him."
Isilme was quick to react, "Then I will follow you! Ondosto is on the road to Andunie, and as you I am confident that Eradan supported me."
The siblings hugged each other, all confident that they would remain friends.