The sudden death of the king had cast the kingdom into disarray. Understanding that absolute calm would be necessary to plan a restoration of peace, the widowed Queen Nephelle wore an enchanted emotion-sealing mask. She then called an assembly with the nation's ministers and issued her commands. Her proposals were insightful and clear, but her cold indifference did not escape the notice the officials. Fear settled in their hearts, for they believed there was no monarch crueler as one who did not feel.