Open: King Cleos Whitestream and the young councilman Linus Drinkwater are at supper in the dining hall of Evenground castle. The day is in its first cycle of sun sleep.

Linus: (Cuts into a pink slab of braised bison flank) I have to admit that I have never eaten this late before. But then again I have never hunted my own bison before either.

Cleos: It can be thrilling at first, but I find the more I do it, the more I wish I didn’t have to. There are better things to do with my time when I have servants who can do the hunting for me.

Cleos looks around the room at the 4 Masanian servants currently waiting on him and his guest.

Cleos: I’m sure you lot would love a trot outside, wouldn’t you.

They all stare at each other, not sure who will, nor how to answer.

Linus: Well why don’t they?

Cleos ponders this for a moment.

Cleos: They can’t. Too busy working.

The two friends laugh at their prosperity and status.

Cleos: I am, however the king and can do what I like.

He turns back to his servants

Cleos: How about that? Next whole moon I’ll take you lot hunting!

Linus: There’s a outstanding idea.

Out of the four servants only three look pleased, their stature hinting at there hunting background, whilst one who looks rather less hunty, looks visibly terrified.

Cleos: Yes, a hunt it will be! Then we can eat it together, but remember…

Pause

None move

Cleos: I get the finest cuts, for I am king of Evenground!

Linus: All hail your new king.

The whole room bows in obedience.