Leta arrives in her fancy silk hat and brocade doublet, all purples and yellows, and after a long pause she moves to a place far from the action, up on the balconies, to look fancy among the rest of the commoners, heavy weaponry all shiny and peace-tied.

Camilla, Luigi, 5 House Mazetti Guardians arrive, following Hadrian.

Stonewood Clerk arrives, following Malesh.

Hadrian has joined the Lyceum Benches.

3 Bisland pride guards arrives, following Samael.

Kit, the grey fox, a tiny man with a BIG unpronounceable name arrive, following Monique.

Serenity, Drysi, a young shaman apprentice arrive, following Khanne.

Lethe has joined the Thrax Benches.

Khanne has joined the Redrain Benches.

Shard steps in, eyes narrowed, and pauses near the entryway in order to sweep her gaze over those assembled near the center of the room. Her lips purse very slightly, and she glances over her shoulder.

Talen has left the Voices of the Realm.

Talen has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Samael has joined the Grayson Benches.

Audric has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Talen walks on in, escorts his wife to the big boys and girls table, then slinks on over to the Lyceum benches.

Shard has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Malesh has joined the Grayson Benches.

Khanne rushes into the Assembly, quietly, late, or nearly so, as she often is. She heads straight to the redrain bench and slides onto it, practically hipchecking Mydas as she does. Once seated, she waves to people she knows, if she is able to catch their eye.

Kael arrives with his wife on his arm, looking across the mass of people already assembled. He hesitates a moment before he spies the Valardin benches set yonder and after a few quiet words offered to the woman near him, he is escorting her there. Helping her to a seat, he is settling down near her with an arm wrapped behind her to make for easier to lean in and murmur this or that.

Monique has joined the Valardin Benches.

Eleyna arrives on Talen's arm, gives him a friendly, for them, peck on the cheek before he meanders away to the Lyceum benches. She takes a seat at the table and gazes out over the crowd, quiet.

Valencia has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Valencia enters quietly and takes a seat.

Stern and hollow of cheeks, Darrow Darkwater strides to the door. He pauses, watery-blue eyes locking on those of the Iron Guard at the door, who seem to reluctantly clear their throats and look at the man's bristling weapons, offering leather ties. A silent gesture is given them, and one of them bounds his lengthy, mirrored blade at the rictus-faced hilt. The other looks relieved that the lord's flail is already bound with leather. That being done, Darrow continues into the chamber, and heads for the longer table towards the front of the room. He pauses, to bow to it, Alaric and Victus, and he turns on a booted heel and continues to the Thrax benches.

Darrow has joined the Thrax Benches.

Monique saunters over to the Valardin benches, sliding in with a murmured greeting.

Alaric projects a clear and confident voice from the middle of the table at the center of the room. "If the peerage and commons of Arvum may take their seats and be settled, we shall begin shortly," he declares.

Victus drops Victus's Crow's mug.

Freja drops Swift Strike Scorpion Whiskey.

Leana, an Igniseri Guard arrives, following Luis.

Freja promptly produces a bottle of whiskey and tops off her own drinking horn before giving a generous portion to Victus. It is held out helpfully to Alis, if she cares to partake.

The Marquis and Marquessa of House Mazetti enter into the Assembly of Peers together, but not, as it were. They just so happen to walk in at the same time and have to share the same bench seating. As Cambria finds a suitable place to take up residence, she makes sure to leave ample space between herself and Hadrian. Without allowing enough room for anyone to sit in between.

Ezekiel the German Shepherd, 2 Sea Rover Bodyguards arrive, following Artorius.

Alis checked willpower at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Venteri enters with little official fanfare, and yet the sudden presence of a six foot tall elf with blue hair and turqoise eyes, wrapped in seasilk that seems to swirl about him as he glides through the assembled nobles and heads toward the throne. "It seems I am just in time," he says with only a slight accent as he bows with a flourish to the King. "I am Venteri, envoy of the Marin'alfar." Straightening he adds, "I do hope you won't mind me crashing your party."


Lord Luis Igniseri, acting Voice of the Igniseri House, enters alone, but for the presence of his guard bearing the Igniseri crest. Finding a place to sit seems a bit foreign to him as he stutters a moment in his movements, looking too and fro, not having been to one of these assemblies before it would seem based upon his reactions. Familiar faces are found, but the young Lord does slowly move about, seeking the appropriate space to seat himself, as his guard wanders along, attempting to be stoic despite their Lord's confusion. Of course he's saved by the arrival of a tall elf 'crashing the party.' "OH thank the gods," he mumbles under his breath, his embarassment stifled.

Victus blinks at a familiar voice, his attention shifting up to the newly appeared Marin'alfar. "I was a little worried one of you wouldn't make it." He dips his head deep in greeting, clear respect being shown in his own awkward and large mannerisms. "Are you the one that brought coffee? I forgot. Again."

Hadrian briskly strides into the Assembly with his contingent of Ducklings in tow. He quickly weaves his way through the assembled bodies still transitioning to their own seats. When he finally reaches a seat he settles in and casually folds his hands into his lap. Talen and Audric both receive a brief nod in recognition, before the Marquis turns his focus ahead again.

Count Artorius of House Magnotta enters quietly, donned in his armor, and clearly not a strange presence. he enters with two of his guards, offering a smile to all those present as he lowers his hood. He looks around the place, but he does give a nod to those he knows, before he reaches his seat and sits down, hands resting on his armored knees as he keeps his eyes about the room.

Khanne looks up from a conversation with Mydas upon hearing a familiar voice. She beams a smile and looks towards Venteri. She rises up from her seat and dips her head to him, following that respectful movement with a wiggled finger wave before sitting back down.

Eleyna stares openly at Venteri and then glances at Victus, drawling dryly, "It's not polite not to introduce your friends."

Freja places a hand on her cheek, the other over her heart with an appalled, mock gasp. "Very -rude-, not polite at all." she echoes Eleyna's sentiment before sniggering into her drinking horn with a note of good humor.

"UGH!" Tyrval immediately makes a choking sound at the sight of Venteri and his greeting, "A -fish- elf. I thought they were all dead! Do you know who missed the fish elves when they died? Not even the dolphins. Dolphins like everyone but sharks, and they barely remembered them! Fish elves have no porpoise!"

Victus casts his gaze over to Eleyna, casually pointing back up to Venteri. "I mean he said his name. But he's a sea-elf, Marin'alfar. Live in underwater cities, children of Mangata, enjoy having coffee in the Maelstrom. He's apart of their Queen's entourage, they're nice people." He's finished jabbing his thumb in the new elf's direction for the moment, back to looking at him for himself. "My wife is doing alright in her lessons last I checked..." Then Tyrval is speaking up and the High Lord is turning right around. Casting daggers with his eyes at that tall, frustratingly handsome man.

Valencia offers a quiet study of the man from her perch in the back of the Lyceum benches, dark glimmering eyes gliding down and then up again, but never rudely nor lingering too long.

Calypso smirks very subtly at Tyrval's words. That is exactly the kind of joke she actually enjoys. Go figure.

Jordal, a bodyguard arrives, following Isabeau.

Alis is surprised enough to be silent for a long moment, before commenting. "If we had known there would be guests, I would have brought the sacramental wine and bacon." That is a very disappointed expression she is sporting.

"Praise to the Queen of Endings for that pun!" Aleksei calls out to Tyrval.

Korka's head comes up and she looks, at Tyrval's choking sound and commentary. Both hands cover her face for a moment as if she could hide, the squeak at least mostly muffled. Eventually her hands drop again, and she mostly has a straight face again. She goes back to staring towards sea elf.

Alaric regards the Marin'alfar enjoy with a regally welcoming smile, standing and bowing with perfect formality. "Well!" He speaks a bit of practiced Marin'alfar words of greeting (and likely the only words he actually knows in the language.) "Prince Venteri, it's indeed an honor to meet you. I am King Alaric Grayson IV, the Sovereign of Arx. Welcome to our Assembly of Peers. If you'd care to take a seat, we'd be delighted to receive you formally after the Faith of the Pantheon conducts the convocation to begin our proceedings." He glances towards the ranking Archlector afoot to see if he's about ready to go. He pauses a beat. "Also, I would remind all in attendance to refrain from interruptions, including punning, while the Assembly is in session," he declares pointedly.

"For shore." Freja remarks after Aleksei, pinching the bridge of her nose.

Isabeau has joined the Voices of the Realm.

Tyrval raises a hand in apology towards his majesty, bows his head and falls silent, looking almost abashed.

Aleksei checked composure + theology at difficulty 30, rolling 5 higher.

Luis has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Darrow has left the Thrax Benches.

Darrow has joined the Thrax Benches.

Isabeau has left the Voices of the Realm.

Isabeau has joined the Valardin Benches.

Tikva splutters and contains her first reaction primarily by biting down on her own knuckle. Her eyes are a little overbright as they slant toward the Grayson benches, although oddly enough her gaze is not actually directed at Tyrval.

Aislin looks torn between amusement and exasperation when Tyrval speaks up. Either way, she's visibly trying not to laugh at the pun.

Valerio has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Isabeau arrives fashionably (?) late and, rather than joining the other Voice of House Valardin at the main table, tucks herself in amoungst the other vassals of her House for the meeting.

Looking to Tyrval a moment, Artorius seems a tad amused, before looking to Alaric, nodding simply to the King of the Compact. "As you say." he responds softly.

Venteri gives Alaric another bow, one hand making a sweeping gesture as he does before he turns and offers a warm smile to those he knows - Khanne and Alarissa first, and then he shakes his head at Victus. "Her Majesty hoards all the coffee, alas. Though she does send her thanks for that last give your lovely wife and Ailith sent her on your last journey." His eyes flash at Tyrval but he says mildly, "Relegated to the cheap seats, are you?" And then he takes the offered seat and murmurs, "But let me not interrupt those good priests and their convocation."

Aleksei blinks when Alaric looks his way. He actually glances behind him for a moment, as if there might be someone more senior to him hiding somewhere. To his credit, he manages not to blanch too obviously when he realizes that it's him. IT'S HIM. "Oh! Right. Uh." He stands up at the Godsworn benches, trying to straighten his shoulders and look generally respectable, one hand resting on the peacebound hilt of Chainbreaker at his hip. "Sorry, I didn't realize--" He clears his throat. He tries to channel Orazio, who is obviously the most dignified person that he knows. He clears his throat again. "In the name of Petrichor, who has given unto us dominion, I hereby consecrate this ground. Let all who abide within be bathed in the light of the gods, and be protected by the holy sacrament of Sanctuary. Until this Assembly be lawfully dismissed, to shed blood or begin violence on this ground will be the darkest sin, and shall be punished accordingly." He lacks Orazio's oratory skills, but he's at least loud enough to be audible. The formality of the language /does/ sound a bit odd in his mouth, though. "Be blessed by the Pantheon, and walk in the light of the gods."

Venteri has joined the Voices of the Realm.

Victus checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Artorius has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Alis looks a little confused seeing Isabeau sit at the Valardin benches, and double takes for a moment before turning her attention to the convocation. She bows her head when Aleksei speaks, and looks up again only once he's done.

Zerric has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Zerric has left the Lyceum Benches.

Zerric has joined the Commoner Benches.

Alaric smiles and looks out into the room to drink it in a little. The King seems rather happy not to be in bed staring vacantly or worse. "I now declare the Assembly in session. First of all, before we welcome our Marin'alfar guest we do have some administrative business to take care of. Many valiant men and women of the Compact have fallen in defense of our people. Many names have been submitted by the Great Houses of Arvum to be given the honour of enshrinement in our Hall of Heroes. I shall read now the list of names and hold a voice vote among the high lords to ratify approval." He glances around before starting at the top of the list. "Narciso Artiglio," he begins before reading off a list of more names. Once concluded, he sets down the list and looks to his left and right. "Are the High Lords in agreement of the worthiness of these submissions?"

Ashe, the studious Stormward paralegal, 2 Kennex corsairs arrive, following Octavia.

Tikva nods with unusual gravity -- for a Tikva -- as she says, "House Grayson is in accord with honoring these heroes of the Compact."

Octavia has joined the Thrax Benches.

Alis nods once. "Valardin is in agreement."

Eleyna speaks up, her husky voice carrying, "The Lyceum also agrees."

Freja chimes in, "The North agrees."

Artorius nods in agreement.

Tyrval looks around puzzled at the mention of Narciso Artiglio, and looks around for clarification.

Victus leers forward a bit. "Thrax says aye." Then there's a moment where he's glancing back to Venteri. "House Thrax also wonders what the opinion of those gathered here are about Koraj Marin's representation in the Hall of Heroes, given his future actions."

Shard continues to sit quietly next to Audric, looking both stiff and distinctly uncomfortable.

3 Rubino and Zaffria guards arrives, following Dafne.

Dafne has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Alaric nods decisively. "So let it be. May the Compact take pride and inspiration from the deeds of our valiant heroes." He glances to Victus thoughtfully. "An interesting question. I wonder if the honor is not diminished by allowing a later retraction, but it may be that new facts later come to light. I'm open to the possibility, but would think a unanimous opinion from the High Council should be necessary to keep people from being unenshrined due to simple political differences in a later regime and the like. I'd also like to see some research done into any sort of possible historical precedent. Thoughts?" He regards the others at the table.

Tikva cocks an eyebrow at Victus. Her hinted smile touching her lips barely at the corners, she says, "I am not aware of precedent for removing a monument from the Hall. And I am concerned that if we are the first, we open avenues towards the erasure of history." She lifts her chin slightly as she looks to Alaric. "It seems a legal and historical question worth investigation prior to taking action."

Alis looks between Victus and Alaric. "I understand the reasoning." So she somewhat agrees with the Thrax Highlord there. But, still nods towards Alaric. "But I'd also like to see if this situation has arisen in the past before we make a final decision that could set unwelcome future precedent."

Artorius doesn't seem to have a say, instead clasping his hands together in front of him, eyes darting to each speaker as they give their thoughts and opinions, hearing every word in depth.

Eleyna's brows lift into the pale expanse of her forehead as she says, "For his -future- actions? I'm with Princess Alis Valardin. I need to learn more before offering a definitive vote yea or nay."

"Given the Hall of Heroes is holy, I would have the Faith's opinion on the removal of statues as well...and historical research of course." Freja remarks with a vague wave of her hand.

Aleksei startles a bit in his seat again as it looks like he might be called to speak again so quickly. He leans forward, looking up to the Voices of the Realm. "Is that a, uh -- formal request for the Faith to speak?" he asks, just to be -- certain. Apparently.

"Thrax's opinion is that it might be counter-intuitive to have a Herald of the Abyss represented in the Hall of Heroes." Victus replies, leaning back in his seat a bit more comfortably. "We recognize he was a different man before the Abyss corrupted him. My opinion is that it serves as a good reminder of how even the mightiest and most heroic can fall to corruption if they're not careful. But, it does make some in our domain uneasy all the same."

5 Grayson Guardsmen, Crom, an expressive bull-mastiff, Songbird, a dignified war-mastiff arrive, following Lark.

Lark has joined the Voices of the Realm.

"I think that it would be best that we table the issue for a future hearing when more research has been done and the Faith has been consulted in a less off-the-cuff manner, as much as it might entertain to force Blessed Aleksei to opine," Tikva says with a slight widening of her eyes in humor.

Octavia looks up abruptly at the mention of a legal question, quickly motioning to her paralegal to repeat the question being discussed. "I do not recall any instance of a statue being removed before," the chief magistrate opines, "But as others have said, I would need time to look into it."

Reese has joined the Grayson Benches.

"Right! Great." Aleksei looks relieved more than anything else to not have to speak so officially. He starts to settle back in his seat before pausing to add, "Although, technically, he's not /dead/, which seems to be a requirement for everyone else." And then, looking satisfied to not have to say anything else.

Octavia says, "Thrax ben Thrax"

Harald raises his rough voice from the Thrax benches to amend Akeksei’s words, "Not yet."

"It is something of a unique case, certainly. Thank you for the suggestion, Victus. The Crown will request of the Archscholar to have her order do some further historical research on the subject and prepare a report for our next gathering. The Great Houses are of course also welcome to make their own studies of the issue as their time and resources permit," Alaric concludes. He then turns to look down the table at Venteri. "Well then, Prince Venteri, I understand you've come rather a long way to speak with us. I thank you for your patience, and I give you leave to address the gathered High Lords and their Voices. The floor is yours."

Thena looks relieved as well, either on Aleksei's behalf or because she was afraid she'd be dragged into Faith talks right here in front of everyone. She gives him a little thumbs up and settles in for Venteri's address.

Artorius certainly looks around then, looking then to the elf when Alaric calls for him. He settles in his seat to listen to him speak without a word.

2 Faith of the Pantheon trained guards, 2 Faith of the Pantheon novice guards arrive, following Orazio.

Tikva finishes catching up her High Lady, gives her a quick smile and a squeeze at the elbow, and then moves to discreetly withdraw from the high table now that Lark is here to represent.

Tikva has left the Voices of the Realm.

Tikva has joined the Grayson Benches.

Agnarr has joined the Redrain Benches.

Orazio has joined the Godsworn Benches.

There is certainly a reason that the Crown Princess Lark Grayson is late. She doesn't give it publicly, however. She slides into her place, her head tilted towards Tikva's to get caught up before the woman moves to leave, her dark eyes sweeping back towards Venteri as Alaric addresses the delegate.

Orazio enters quietly, putting his robes in array as he sits down. There's an eyebrow raised at Thena as he joins the godsworn benches. He lowers his voice to speak to those at those tables quietly.

Venteri stands then, a sweeping bow given to all as he turns to address those assembled at an angle, so as not to exclude His Majesty completely. "Your Majesty, High Lords, Voices, other assembled notables, nobles, commoners, friends, future friends," and here he pauses ever so slightly before continuing "and the Nox'alfar, I bring you greetings from Her Majesty Ayllish of the Marin'alfar. I am Prince Venteri of the Marin'alfar, serving as Her right hand and Ambassador to the Compact. As you know, we have been fighting against the Abyss for hundreds of years, faithful to our word though the Compact has not been entirely faithful to yours. Through the outreach of some of your people - most notably Lady Khanne, Lady Titania, Seraph Ailith, and of course the rules of Maelstrom, Victus and Alarissa, we have been given to understand that this is not wholly your fault."

Venteri offers those present a smile and then continues easily, "I won't belabor this, but consider this the resumption of our diplomatic ties, and a sign of our willingness to continue to work with the Compact - and even the Nox'alfar if we must - against our mutual enemies." His smile practically beams toward Tyrval, in that just-kidding-but-not-really-but-maybe-kidding kind of way. "Your Majesty asked to meet one of our representatives. Our Queen has seen fit to send me."

Khanne bites her lip as Venteri calls out her name, her eyes sweeping over the assembly. She smiles when he speaks of resuming the diplomatic ties, her eyes then going to Victus and Alarissa, sharing that smile with them.

Tyrval stares at Venteri for a long, fulimating moment, and then his expression changes to a vacant one of slowly opening and closing his mouth and slowly waving his arms... in his finest goldfish impression. It continues for longer than is probably necessary.

Lark offers, in quiet warmth, "It is our pleasure to welcome you to the Compact, Prince Venteri of the Marin'alfar." But then, after a pause, she questions: "Do we have anything that states our word to your people? It is not, of course, the first time that we have lost our memory of promises made," her dark gaze slides briefly to Tyrval at this point, before returning to Venteri. "But, when we discovered our treaty with the Nox'alfar, we were able to recover the contents of it. I have not heard anything of a similar treaty."

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

There is an audible squeak of delight from the Velenosa benches as Dafne notes the Marin'alfar prince. A moment later, the duchess remembers her dignity.

Aislin covers her face when Tyrval pantomimes a goldfish. It's unclear whether she's trying to suppress laughter, or just generally exasperated.

Artorius's eyes shift to Lark, giving his friend a warm smile when she speaks, though he looks then btween Venteri and Tyrval, raising a brow lightly between them. a small smirk then, he takes a sigh a moment, not speaking for now.

Tyrval mutters beneath his breath, "Don't overfeed their ambassador, it's dangerous for the poor little fellows."

Monique checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Shard's attention shifts from person to person as they speak, and for the most part her expression remains as it usually is, guarded and difficult to read. When Venteri speaks, she watches him carefully, only looking away when Tyrval's motions catch her eye, and only...just. There's a faint twitching around her jaw, but all she does is quietly clear her throat.

Octavia smirks openly at the gesture from Tyrval, shaking her head a little bit before whispering something to the bench.

There was the sound of very quiet, very muffled, and very brief giggling that came from somewhere amongst the Grayson benches. It wouldn't have been particularly notable, really, save for the fact that it seemed to be coming from the general vicinity of one Countess Mia Riven -- who decidedly //never// let out such a sound. At least not in public, anyway.

Korka, totally not watching the Grayson benches, must dissolve into laughter for an entirely unrelated reason that has nothing at all to do with the faces Tyrval has made. She does at least manage to be quiet about it, more just shaking in the shoulders as she sinks down on the bench.

Reese looks all somberly serious and seems to be far from laughter.

Alarissa checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Valencia watches the proceedings, her expression mildly irritated, but at just what it's hard to tell. The little fox adjusts her seat and smooths her skirts.

As certain sectors of the rest of the room dissolve into giggles or seem to be fighting very hard against them, Eleyna remains stone-faced and composed at the High Lord's table. She drums the fingers of one hand against the table's surface. Patiently.

Victus gives a little nod toward Venteri when his name is spoken, but otherwise is silent and still as he speaks. He motions his hand toward Alaric. "No questions from me."

Maeve has joined the Redrain Benches.

Valerio has left the Lyceum Benches.

Valerio has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Zerric bears a rigid, formal posture while he regards the Assembly. The fishy faces of course, breaks the scholars maintained solemn expression, the man giving way to a grin at that. There is, however, nothing else being revealed from the man.

Tyrval has left the Grayson Benches.

Tyrval has joined the Grayson Benches.

Khanne has left the Redrain Benches.

Khanne has joined the Redrain Benches.

Darrow has left the Thrax Benches.

Darrow has joined the Thrax Benches.

Curiosity has drawn Maeve to the Assembly today. At first, she peeks into the room, glancing around. She beelines over to the Redrain benches, slipping in to settle quietly.

Venteri looks at Lark and shakes his head. "Our records were lost when our city was used by the Goddess to imprison your great hero. Perhaps you'll find it yet, or perhaps we can begin anew." Then he leans slightly toward Tyrval and shakes his head. "You know, I've heard of a mold that can grow and, if left unchecked, causes outbursts of extreme childishness. But take heart, the cure is simple - just a bit of sunlight will clear it right... oh."

Ainsley has joined the Grayson Benches.

Darrow seems just as close to laughter as he usually he, with the antics of elves' in the room.

Darrow seems just as close to laughter as he usually is, with the antics of elves' in the room.

Lark's mirrored, large gaze slides to Tyrval, holding a hint of disappointment, before sweeping back to Venteri. She inclines her chin in agreement, replying simply, "I am sorry for the loss of your records, your highness. The loss of any knowledge is a great tragedy. I would suggest that the best and brightest of the Compact begin trying to find our own records of this treaty, if possible." A pause, before she adds, "The words of our mutual ancestors may give us a wisdom we wouldn't have otherwise, in how to proceed."

Korka has left the Commoner Benches.

Korka has joined the Commoner Benches.

Valerio checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

"Reading the words of our ancestors is all well and good to see how it's been done before, I also believe that we need to make treaties that makes sense for the world we have -today-. Not how it was then. Establishing a current treaty seems a ripe topic for future discussion." Eleyna's voice is soft, but carries through the room as her pale blue eyies shift from Tyrval to Venteri, brows lifting.

"I am in agreement with Archduchess Eleyna. Starting anew, with the needs of our current times in mind, is preferable anyway. And, a topic to delve into another day." Alis says quietly.

"Another day, please." bemoans, or advises, the Voice of Redrain. Freja drains the rest of her drinking horn before reaching for the scorpion whiskey again. "Written, rather than verbally and loosely agreed upon renewal. A failsafe for all parties involved, hmm?"

"I would remind that the embassy is based in the Maelstrom, for any who want to have diplomatic talks with the Marin'alfar." Victus quietly sneaks in with that, rolling an arm over the back of his seat. "I'm sure they'll be happy to receive you there, when the time permits."

Alaric smiles brightly at the blue-haired elf prince. "Prince Venteri, on behalf of the people of the Compact, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to Arx and to heartily endorse the revival of proper diplomatic contacts between our people. It is regrettably true that the last few hundred years have seen something of a diminishment of our great union, but rest assured we are striving our utmost to reverse our fortunes and recover things that have been lost. In the meantime, I will direct the Crown Observers to begin the process of drafting a new treaty. If the Great Houses have suggestions or would like to undertake some research on our own end for signs of our lost treaty, I am sure the First Observer would welcome the aid." He turns back to Venteri with a nod. "The Crown, and I'm sure House Thrax as well, will be happy to see that you are given proper accomodations for the remainder of your stay in Arx. Is there aught else you would speak of at this time?"

Darrow is overheard praising Harald for: Economic realism, rather than sentimental worries over thralls' feelings.

A sharp bark of laughter sounders from the Grayson bench before it is _very quickly_ muffled behind armored hands.

Harald rises to his feet, speaks briefly to those around him, and quietly takes his leave of the assembly hall.

Harald has left the Thrax Benches.

"We will," Venteri is quick to agree with Victus. "This trip was specifically at the request of His Majesty and I will remain in the city available to those who would speak to me, at least for the time being. When my Queen recalls me, and for all matters that I am not empowered to resolve directly, the Embassy in Maelstrom has been artfully crafted to be a welcome home away from the sea for us. But the battle is not yet won, and while a formal document may be of great value we cannot put a hold on the call to battle that we continue to answer day by day. Thank you all for your warm welcome. I look forward to meeting you in time."

Delia has joined the Commoner Benches.

"Thank you once again, Prince Venteri. It has been an honor to meet you, and I look forward to our next conversation at well," Alaric declares regally. "But to speak of the battles we continue day by day leads us to our next topic: the Crown calls the Minister of War, the Duchess-General Calypso to the floor to speak of the Compact's ongoing efforts against our Abyssal foes."

Venteri has left the Voices of the Realm.

Reese turns her attention to Venteri as he speaks, seemingly polite and focused. When his words come to an end, she gives him a hopeful smile. Then as Calypso is called upon, she gives her a smile as well.

Venteri bows again. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he says to the King and then heads out of the Assembly with a sweep of seasilk.

Darrow lifts his head up, focusing on Calypso with the intent watery-blue of his eyes.

Calypso rises from her seat at the Lycean benches and steps forward to address the head table. "Though there are several threats we face, for the sake of brevity I will only go in to the situation with the Horned God with any detail. the rest will be brief updates following." She incliens her head before beginning proper. "The forces of the Compact banded together not long ago to fight against the Horned God in the northern region between the Gray Forest and the Northlands. While we were not successful in ending him in that battle alone, we did learn a great deal. His power comes from the binding of names. Writ-binding, magically enslaving individuals to do the bidding of he and his master. We have also learned that he uses a sort of infestation technique when attacking, setting a swarm of wasps on us in this instance. We have also learned that there are voices among the compact that sing the True Song. A song that when heard unbinds the souls writ bound to him. Using this true song will be crucial going forward."

"We have also uncovered the location of several weapons that will help us unbind these souls. Several of these weapons still remain lost to us, though some are in the possession of trusted and capable people throughout the compact, ready to be used when the time is right. Furthermore, shamanistic rituals and interactions with the Spirits have also been researched and found effective against the breaking of chains and freeing of souls. With these combined, I am confident that the next opportunity we have to strike against him will be successful." She pauses there for any question or comment on this particular threat.

At the mention of the Crown Observers, Mia's attention snapped up -- away from the Grayson benches -- to seek out the King. And then from Alaric on to her fellow Observers, who she took quick stock of. Seeing how few of them were present, she nodded once, sharply. The task assigned to them would be delivered. She'd see to that.

Lark's gaze slides to the Grayson benches, lingering there for a moment -- touching Reese then Tikva -- before focusing again on Calypso quietly.

Hadrian has left the Lyceum Benches.

Shard sits up straight again as Calypso speaks. She was paying attention before, more or less, but now her attention is rapt, and there's a certain intensity in her eyes that's undeniable.

Zerric has left the Commoner Benches.

Zerric has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Reese listens to Calypso's words with a thoughtful expression. She then notices Lark's attention and her cousin is given a nod.

Alis makes a few notes on what the Defense Minister reports; scribbling away at a few things and looking quite intent on, specifically, the first half of what is being reported on. In all, she gives a brief nod at the end of the information sharing, but says nothing aloud.

Hadrian Mazetti slips from the benches and then begins to pick up the pace. Long strides quickly create distance between himself and the Ducklings as he makes quick work at reaching an exit.

Camilla, Luigi, 5 House Mazetti Guardians leave, following Hadrian.

When Calypso speaks, Cristoph scoots the notepad in front of him over and makes a couple of quick notes himself before edging it back towards Nicia again. His attention seems to drift around the room, taking in the reactions of other members of the assembly.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Monique before departing.

Alaric leans forward in his seat slightly. "The Herald's objectives in the Gray Forest seemed focused a great deal upon attacking the First Children and the elder beings within, presumably to sacrifice them to gain power for further ends. Do we still consider that to be his foremost goal, or has the Compact's opposition forced him to pull back for now?" He glances to Freja, who also seems about to comment. (i think)

Reese looks to Thesarin and nods. She then raises her hand, trying to see if she can speak.

Peeling himself from his seat quietly, Zerric seems to have decided to move from the commoners bench to settle down at the Lyceum Benches.

Khanne turns away from Agnarr at the Redrain bench to look towards Calypso as she speaks.

Reigna pays close attention to Calypso's information, head tilted in an expression of that intense focus and absorbtion of the information.

Lethe has left the Thrax Benches.

Estaban has left the Lyceum Benches.

1 Saik Guard have been dismissed.

Gunther, a Rottweiler have been dismissed.

Freja rises up from her seat to her towering height, her woads and attire doing nothing to help the 'heathen' image so often associated with the Northlands, nobility included. Regardless, her tone is firm and wrought with the cold iron of the North and gives no quarter to doubt in this realm of topic. "The breaking of chains and the freeing of souls can be done in absence of the Thorned Rod's forces, not in the field. The Spirits ...can be pained." The Shaman tightens her jaw at this." House Redrain thanks all for their efforts, more notably the General Calypso and Princess Reese for her combined efforts with my brother, Warchief Fergus, and as well as Duke Vercyn. As for action, these are not mere 'tales' you have been hearing. The cultists are still active, things lost to the 'ages' stir once more. In short, don't be a fucking idiot. The souls will be liberated, but not through glory hounding. It will take us all and not a soul shorter in count."

Alaric nods lightly. "Princess Reese, do you have anything to add for House Grayson?" he calls over.

Reese turns her focus to Freja, listening to her words and then giving her somber smile at her words of thanks.

"He has pulled back and is likely re-positioning, your Majesty. We've had no solid reports of his current whereabouts, only his influence in the forests. His goals are still in taking the names of the First Children. Several missions have been made to seek them out and keep them protected. There will likely be similar efforts made as we build our attack plan." Calypso says in reply to the King. Her gaze though shifts to Freja and with an incline of her head to the Redrain Voice she says "A caution worth noting. This will be a slow process and not one we can seize with might and steel."

Thena has rolled a critical success!
Thena checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Alis gives Princess Freja a solemn nod, and leans over to murmur something to her as she sits back down. And maybe gives that headdress a covetous glance. Seriously. Who doesn't want a geant bear head? It's so awesomely intimidating!

Isabeau has left the Valardin Benches.

Jordal, a bodyguard have been dismissed.

Thena looks just like she always does.

Eleyna probably does not want a giant bear head. It likely clashes with her silks.

Alis pffft! Giant bear heds go with everything. You just need different colored bear heads for each set of silks.

Khanne sits quietly, eyes flicking from Calypso to Freja, then back to Calypso.

Mydas gives a nod to Freja's words, approval for his wife's speech. No glance at the giant bear head, the man has been living with it.

"And as for the freeing of souls, I have my own personal research into it and would be -gravely- appreciative of those able to help coming to me as the point of contact for the North." Freja's rare smile escapes, but if there are daggers in men's smiles? Well, Freja has enough to arm the entire compact metaphorically with her flash of pearly whites. She settles back down into her seat and concedes the floor to whomever is next.

Khanne bites her lip and rises up. "If I may...?"

Reese rises to her booted feet at Alaric's words, giving him a nod. "I do, thank you, Your Majesty." She glances over those gathered here, before lifting her voice to carry. "As many know the Graysons have been leading missions into the Gray forest with the intention of scouting and helping to secure protections in that direction. We are very grateful to the members of many other houses who have attended the missions with us, including the commoners and the faith. There are too many names to list them all, but we are thankful." She then pauses for a moment. "It should be noted that tainted animals are still being discovered in the forest. Many of them are quiet dangerous and quite powerful. There has been reports of some of these animals' corpses making bit back into compact. These corpses are very dangerous and should be given over to Lady Eirene or the Inquisition if found. Under no condition can hole or partial tainted corpses be taken from the Gray forest. To do so is to bring the taint into Compact. Also travel in the Gray forest is dangerous. I ask everyone to let me know if they are traveling there and to be extremely careful.

Reese pauses for a moment. "Also, I always welcome qualified help on the missions. Feel free to let me know at another time if one wishes to join our missions. Right now we are not seeing big movements from the slaver, but we are seeing his minions about. Sometimes these abyss tainted animals are crows and avians, which are good at spying. Please be alert to possible small abyss tainted animals that could be spies while in the forest. Also the Graysons continue to stand against the killing of any non-tainted Shavs who are not hostile toward us. Killing Shavs in the forest when not in self-defense will not be tolerated. Thank you."

Khanne sits back down when Reese speaks.

Shard continues to listen to each and every speaker with her full and utter attention.

Freja motions from the table of the Voices of the Realm to Khanne to speak if she so wishes.

"Lady Khanne, quickly, and then please continue, Duchess Calypso. Let's not get too bogged down into tangents," Alaric declares.

Reese sits back down at the Grayson bench.

Khanne shakes her head then dips it to Alaric. "Thank you, but we have moved on." Her eyes scan the assembly briefly and she says, "I'll talk to who I need to privately some other time. Probably better that way anyway..."

Calypso nods to Reese at her information and then to Lady Khanne for her words before continuing on to the final two defense topics. "The Forces of the Compact have also made great strides at sea against the Prince of Storms. The Darkwater has been stopped from spreading and is no longer an imminent threat to our holdings, but it is not yet defeated. There have been missions out into various locations around the Mourning Isles to recover Cobalt weapons that will help us eliminate this threat. Further still more information comes through our uncovering of lost information. Though we are not yet ready to take to the waves, I feel confident than we will be soon." Calypso reports of the Gyre.

"The last threat that I will speak about at the Assembly is that of the Dragon Malar. Much effort has been put into understanding this foe more clearly and his goals. Though much of Cardia and the Sky Lords therein remains a mystery to us, we are confident that the goal of Malar to wipe out House Valardin, remains true. Much effort has gone into the research of past Dragon Slaying endeavors and we have discovered that a weapon called the Platinum Balliste has been used with great success in the past. Fortunately, the compact has been gifted three of these Balliste. Though they currently reside under the watchful care of the Inquisition, I would like to make a formal request on behalf of the Ministry of Defense to take possession of these weapons of war so that they may be used with strategic military guidance and placed in locations that will best protect the Compact." Calypso's icy gaze settles back on the head table for a reply to her request.

A servant wearing Aviaron colours arrives and whispers a few words in the Marquis' ear, enough for the man to incline his head to those around him in farewell, and take his leave quietly.

Mydas has left the Redrain Benches.

Jessamine, the innocuous shop girl arrives, delivering a message to Reese before departing.

Monique has left the Valardin Benches.

Kit, the grey fox, a tiny man with a BIG unpronounceable name leave, following Monique.

Shard's intensity noticeably dies down once the topic shifts, though she's still clearly paying attention. The last subject even has her eyebrows slowly lifting, one a little higher than hte other.

"Were not those gifts to the address of the Master of Questions?" Tikva inquires from the Grayson benches. "Laric isn't even in attendance. Is he aware that the Ministry wishes to dispose of his things?"

"The Compact did not receive these weapons as a gift. My cousin, Prince Laric Grayson, received these ballistae as a gift," corrects Lark flatly to Calypso, her mirror-dark eyes meeting ice.

Reese lifts her gaze to Calypso as the general speaks, listening to her with close attention.

Victus sits up, clasping his fingers together and settling his gaze upon Calypso. "What of the belief that the dragon Malar was responsible for the destruction of Blackshore? Has there been any evidence to reasonably confirm, or deny his intentions in destroying an isle of Thrax?"

Thena has left the Godsworn Benches.

Alis clears her throat, looking up and appearing solemn at the mention of the Dragon Malar. "I would second the request of the Minister of Defense. But then, I was not aware that the ballista were Prince Laric's personal property. Hopefully, we will all be allowed to study these ballista so we can try to use them to save as many innocent lives as possible." she says calmly.

Reese is overheard praising Shard for: She has been so brave and badass on the missions

Reese is overheard praising Thesarin for: The Count is a talented warrior and leader.

"Could their fabrication at least not be studied and replicated?" Freja suggests.

Victus' mention of Blackshore snags Reigna's attention from Calypso and holds it there on the Thrax High Lord for a long moment before looking back to the General to hear her answer.

Snorting plain exasperation, Tikva says, "The ballistae literally came with a gift note and the longship affixed with a giant pink bow, it was not /subtle/."

"To do what with exactly, if not to protect the Compact?" Eleyna murmurs as her eyes move from Calypso to Lark and then to the King.

Reese is overheard praising Agnarr for: The giant smashes hard

Reese is overheard praising Eirene for: So many would be dead without her.

Darrow pushes to his feet as Calypso speaks. He listens to Tikva and Lark query the General, and adds his own thought, his voice grating. "The entire Isle of Blackshore - its keep, everyone on the rock, and my cousin, the Count Maximilian Darkwater, was burned to ash." His eyes are intent as they sweep the hall. "We have information suggesting the devastation wrought was brought by one of the ancient wyrms. These 'gifts' that you wish to keep do -nothing- if they are not used to end the danger this foe represents." He points a finger towards Calypso. "I trust the Duchess-General's expertise in the use of these weapons, I commend her desire to protect Valardin lands, and echo the desire to protect my own. Darkwater is -fully- in support of the General's proposition." A scowl locked on his face, he sits.

Reese is overheard praising Alaric for: Its not easy to lead a meeting like this. He has talent.

Cambria is overheard praising Tikva for: For not blinding agreeing to give away the property of others under the guise of protection.

Orazio puts in, raising his voice just enough to be heard, "It seems that this is a request between two Crown organizations, and thus perhaps best settled in quiet negotiations in another venue."

"Wasn't there a proclamation made that the ballista were acquired by the Inquisition on His Majesty's behalf?" Alis wonders, looking confused, and glancing between Calypso and Alaric now. "Perhaps that was in error?"

"Perhaps if this 'request'--" Tikva makes air quotes. "--were not being made in the Assembly in front of everyone and also their dog, at a time when the Master of Questions or the High Inquisitor were actually present, they could speak to this issue."

"Let the man answer." Victus raises his voice for the first time in awhile, a gesture made to Alaric.

Khanne is overheard praising Victus for: For working with the Marin'alfar towards an alliance with the Compact.

Cambria is overheard praising Lark.

Reese is overheard praising Freja for: Fighting the Slaver, always fighting back against the abyss.

Khanne is overheard praising Alarissa for: For working with the Marin'alfar towards an alliance with the Compact.

"Princess Tikva, please," Lark replies quietly, tipping her chin towards her cousin-in-law.

Eleyna glances from Tikva to Lark, brows raised. Her eyes then shift to some point in the crowd in the Lyceum benches,the corner of her lips lifting in a sardonic smile.

Khanne is overheard praising Alaric for: For herding cats.

Tikva leans back in her seat, visibly dropping it but for the glint in her eyes.

Darrow checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

"The Ministry of Defense's request is noted. The Crown has yet to determine the final disposition of these ballistae," Alaric declares inscrutably. "It is an open question as to whether private individuals ought to be possessing siege weaponry within the boundaries of Arx, and I will make that determination, not mysterious gift-givers." He smirks faintly. "That said, unless anyone has a vast supply of platinum they've been sitting on that they would like to conveniently disclose at this time, as far as I am aware we possess neither the resources nor the expertise to reverse engineer similar works. To my mind, then, the question is limited to the proper deployment of these weapons," he declares with finality. "Is there anything further with regards to your report, Minister?"

Ainsley's rubicund cover hand curves over Tikva's shoulder from behind. Silver gaze sweeping from Lark to Calypso, Eleyna, Alis, and Darrow in turn. Though his final gaze shifts toward Alaric and he looks mildly surprised.

Calypso inclines her head to Victus at his words. "The thought that the destruction of Blackshore was indeed the work of Malar seems to point every day in the direction of a confirmation. But as that incident and the accused attacker itself is still shrouded in mystery and no reports of his Malardin in that area, I can not say with any one hundred percent certainty that it was him." She nods to Darrow's words in confirmation. As Alaric speaks to settle the back and forth discussion in the room, she inclines her head respectfully. "That is all we have for the moment, thank you for your time and consideration."

Reese is overheard praising Delilah for: She is smart and perceptive!

Alis doesn't seem particularly disturbed by anyone's reaction; she simply nods at Alaric when he speaks and then turns to listen to the rest of Calypso's reporting.

Though the smoke and sorrow Darrow's eyes is a furor, his normally stern face hardened in anger, the expression familiar to those who have seen him casting broken and maimed bodies away from his path in battle, the tenseness palpable as he sits, immobile except for the slight rasp of breath between his teeth, as he watches, simmering, without further comment for now. He nods silently aside to Alarissa, at a touch on his elbow.

Victus nods in stiff fashion as she speaks to him. "Understood." Is all he says before he's leaning back comfortably. Mug of rum in hand, surprisingly not having been touched for some time yet! His eyes are slowly moving back to the Thrax benches, where he gives Darrow a brief nod and another to his wife.

Alaric smiles and regards the big table. "If there are no further questions for the Minister? Thank you, Duchess-General Calypso. One more item of business before we adjourn; the Crown calls Marquis Ford Kennex to the floor to provide an accounting of the recent crisis in Stormward, and present himself for questioning."

Ford rises from his seat and scoots out into the main aisle to stand before the Table of the Realm, "I am presented." He says with a dip of his head.

Eleyna sits up a little straight in her seat and flexes her fingers a bit as she glances from the King to Ford, a brilliant smile on her lips.

For some reason Ainsley drops his winged helmet into Tikva's lap.

Korka has left the Commoner Benches.

Octavia sits up as her brother stands, removing her chains of office and passing them to Ashe. As the one most recently in Stormward, she's expecting to be involved heavily in this.

Waldemai has left the Commoner Benches.

"Thank you, Marquis. Your presence is quite appreciated. Having sent no small amount of silver in recent days to your March, the Great Houses of Arvum are very interested, and at this point rather literally invested in the situation around Stormward. If you could start from before the crisis began and describe the chain of events that lead us to this point in your view, I'm sure we'd all be quite interested," Alaric declares. "We may have some follow-up questions for you," he adds dryly.

"In my opinion, your majesty, this started with the poorly worded and misguided proclamation from my very own vassal, Navegant. Their actions started a chain of events that was leading down rather precarious path. A flaming carriage if you will, was hurling towards my vassal." Ford says.

Cambria gets up from her seat amongst the Lycene benches, and as unobtrusively as possible, makes her exit from the Assembly.

Cambria has left the Lyceum Benches.

Lark questions flatly, inquiring, "And in the face of a possible flaming carriage, you blew up an entire island? Please, go on."

Valerio has left the Lyceum Benches.

Alaric nods patiently to Ford, evidently content to listen to his whole recap before personally interjecting anything.

"In that sense, your grace, yes. I stepped in front of the flaming carriage in the hopes that it would not only ease tensions growing between the issue of thralldom between the entire fealty of Thrax and the rest of the compact, but move tension away from a target of anger towards one of more hopeful goals." Ford explains, "In continuing the metaphor, I set my demense on fire."

A grotto attendant slips quietly into the assembly and disappears up into the commoner benches. In a moment or two, Saedrus makes an equally quiet exit with his attendant in tow.

Saedrus has left the Commoner Benches.

Ainsley is overheard praising Alaric.

Ainsley is overheard praising Tikva.

Ainsley is overheard praising Lark.

Ainsley is overheard praising Reese.

Ainsley is overheard praising Silas.

"Fully well knowing how deeply this would hurt, with little planning, to the knowledge you have admitted to others," Lark points out quietly. "The nobility of trying to help your vassals, to ease tension is well-erased by the harm you did. By your pen, you took lives, Marquis Kennex."

"Oh. So, you were -aware- that such a declaration would result in such instability that the Compact would need to step in with silver and ships and resources to keep your island from burning to the ground? Is that what we are understand?" Eleyna says softly, her pretty smile never slipping an inch.

Reese is overheard praising Lark for: Her words are sharp!

Aiden is overheard praising Samael.

Aiden is overheard praising Mia.

Aiden is overheard praising Thesarin.

"If I may, Marquis. What do you think prompted House Navegant's initial proclamation? Did you attempt to do anything about that, first?" Alis wonders, hands folded loosely in her lap while she listens to his testimony.

Alarissa checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Ford nods, "I did. And the lives of those lost are on my hands, my conscience. It's not the first time I've done something that resulted in the loss of life, nor will it be the last. But it was for the greater good, of both my March and the Thrax fealty as whole." His gaze turns towards Eleyna, "I was aware that such a declaration was required. Is the loss of silver and the temporary movement of ships a greater cost than lives that have been unfairly taken for centuries?" Then a gaze to Alis, "In my estimation the hole was dug so deep, that any attempt made to directly offer support would be met with a similar fate of all encompassing trade sanctions."

Victus has been quiet up until this point. Then, he raises his hand slowly. "Your majesty. May I?"

Alaric gestures calmly to Victus in a go-ahead gesture, never taking his eyes off of Ford.

Lark's gaze only lingers at Ford's answer for a moment, before it draws away to lift to Victus as the High Lord speaks.

Eleyna very visibly bites back her own remarks to let Victus speak, but she stares at Ford the entire time.

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

3 Fidante House Guards, Alejandro arrive, following Calista.

Calista has joined the Lyceum Benches.

With his permission sealed, the High Lord of Thrax stands right up. Quick for a man of his size. "It's an odd idea you've got, Ford. Thinking that the entire Thrax fealty was under threat, because of the actions of one county's stance. Has it not always been in Arvum that the vassalage rules its own domains as they please, with the dedication of taxes and military might being the most we ask of them. In a whole damn milenia of the Faith and the Compact disagreeing with Thralldom, did you see this man right here say 'We're going to do something about Thrax'?" He points straight to Alaric. "Did you see this woman, take away jobs and trade because of her opinions?" Then it's onto Eleyna. "Did you see Grayson, Redrain, Valardin all ponying up ready to come enact some righteous-fucking-fury on our land because of a complicated system that has been in place longer than anyone in this room has been alive...?" After a quick thought on that, he waves off to Tyrval in a 'not you', gesture. "I'm flummoxed. I'm proper fucking confused, Ford. How you thought the whole Thrax fealty was in danger because of the misguided words of one of your vassals. Do you think anyone, /any/ fucker in this room is as dumb to think that dismantling a system we've dealt with and had rooted to our core for centuries was going to come after us? Because of /Navegant/?"

He just holds his glare there for a moment. Utterly transfixed on the Marquis. His fists balled up and even shuddering. "I don't think anyone here is that stupid Ford. Except for you. The man who murdered his people, who depended on him, who relied on him for support and protection. Who knowingly put them all down, and has the fucking balls to come in here and say 'It's not so bad. It could've been worse. We're dealing with bigger shit. Navegant's fault after all.'" Of course, excessive hand gestures are brought to swing this point home. "You destroyed lives, you took money from the coffers and time from everybody in this room, because of your fuck-up. And more will die, Ford. Ships just aren't being 'moved', people aren't just going to stop. We're fighting wars on multiple fronts. The coast, the North, the fucking sky has a damn dragon in it. And while we're busy over here, fixing your little screw-up, they get to roam free and plot more and more." His voice remains even throughout his speech, his hand coming to rest against the table along with the rest of him. "You've forced the Compact to waste their time and effort fixing something that never should have occurred in the first place. And we're not even halfway done with it. You're a murderer, and a criminal, your reasons are bullshit." With another moment of silence to pass the time, the High Lord stands, and promptly seats himself again. "Find a decent answer or stop talking."

Leta has left the Commoner Benches.

Audric checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Tyrval has left the Grayson Benches.

Samael is overheard praising Victus for: He's right. It was treason.

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Eleyna is overheard praising Victus.

Joslyn is overheard praising Victus.

Lark is overheard praising Victus.

Alis is overheard praising Victus.

Nicia is overheard praising Victus.

Leta rises from the cheap seats, brow furrowed for a moment, though she appears more thoughtful than anything else, and paying only slight attention to the proceedings now. She weaves her way past the other commoners, with a mutter of excuses here and there, and slips out.

Orazio drawls, "A murderer and a criminal whose reasons are bullshit? Perhaps His Grace should promote the Marquis to Warlord."

Tikva checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Delia has left the Commoner Benches.

Lark checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Mia checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Tyrval stands to go, "So, while I'm all about making a proclamation and seeing entire systems come crashing down on whim, as might happen during a folly, I should note that in my lifetime I've seen at least seventeen more regretable decisions by leaders with more spectacularly questionable results." He holds up a hand, "That's not praise, mind. Aaaaaaaanyways, gotta run."

Tikva is overheard praising Orazio for: Holy shit.

Maeve watches the interactions with some intensity. Though Oraio's words make her blink and those violet eyes shift to stare at him.

Octavia is overheard praising Orazio for: Now that was funny.

Thesarin is overheard praising Orazio for: well said.

Leans back to regard Orazio. "Harald already left, but I can pass the word along to him if you want." He offers just a cozy shrug after that, content to slip deeper into his seat.

"As always, a pleasure, Prince Tyrval," Lark says simply to Tyrval as he stands to leave, her gaze only flickering briefly to Orazio.

Khanne seemed to be tired, leaning an elbow on her knee, chin on her fist as she spoke in hushed tones at her bench. However, Victus' words grab her attention and her eyes open, brows arched. She leans back in her seat and grabs her flask of whiskey, popping it open and taking a drink as she continues to watch and listen.

At Orazio's comment, Mia's dark eyes swivelled over to the Legate. She studied his face for a moment, and in that time, somehow managed to keep hers from showing much in the way of an expression -- but onyl just, and the faint twitch of her lips suggests that it was at great effort.

Shard quietly watches Tyrval go, though it's clearly hard to split her attention from all the very intense talking going on over /there/.

Victus is overheard praising Orazio for: He always gets one in at the best of times.

Tyrval is overheard praising Orazio for: Ford for Warlord!

Aislin checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Lark is overheard praising Orazio for: Not entirely the time nor the place for such an observation.

Mia is overheard praising Orazio.

"That would be good, Your Grace," Orazio says, calmly. "Especially since, I believe, Kennex is a sworn vassal of Grimhall, not Grayson. I must wonder," his dark eyes move towards Alaric, "if this is a formal expression of the Crown's lack of trust in Kennex's liege lord, that the Duke has not been permitted to address the issues with its vassal? And shall each lord of the realm expect that its breathtakingly stupid decisions shall be called to account before the full Assembly of Peers? Further, if so, how can we petition to see that happen for a list I have, going back about thirty years?"

Reese is overheard praising Victus for: He speaks the truth when it needs to be spoken

"I don't recall inviting the Legate of Concepts to the floor to pose questions," Alaric declares sharply. "If you'll allow the Marquis to speak."

Orazio inclines his head, deeply. "My apologies, Your Majesty." He settles back into his chair, then, turning his eyes back to Ford.

Audric has left the Lyceum Benches.

Audric has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Looking towards Orazio for a moment, Ford looks, bewildered. Then he looks back towards the table, directly at Alaric, "Your majesty, what am I -really- on trial here for?" He draws in a breath, "Because the Legate is right, many -worse- decisions have been made in this room, under a crown mandate. And more than a few hundred were killed because of it. So I ask, since we all, and I mean us all, from Grayson to Velenosa, Riven, Mazetti, Darkwater, and the Faith have helped Stormward. Which is another point of contention for me. The aid granted is not for my house, nor for it's family. The aid was for the -people- of the lands I rule... I ask.. what am I on trial for?"

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Reese has rolled a critical success!
Reese checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

"Getting your people killed for one, it seems like." says Ainsley from the Grayson bench, "I mean, I've been back for all of three minutes, Master Kennex. But it seems to me you're being put on trail for gross incompetence as a liege."

Eilonwy has joined the Commoner Benches.

"Prince Ainsley, as I asked your wife-- Please," Lark replies simply.

Shard's expression hasn't been pleasant for several minutes at this point, but now it turns /distinctly/ ugly. She makes an audible noise--not a loud one, but an audible one--that seems to start in the back of the throat and not get much farther than that.

Audric has left the Lyceum Benches.

Octavia has left the Thrax Benches.

"Trial? This is not a trial, Marquis Ford. I have asked you here like I said at the beginning. To explain how this all came about. To explain the thinking, or lack thereof, that led us to this point," Alaric declares. "The fidelity between liege and vassal speaks to the lord's obligation to provide security, and justice to his vassals. While advancing a 'greater good' is a noble intention, doing so by visiting insecurity and injustice on thousands of Marchers you are sworn to protect is is hardly laudable, Marquis Ford. What bothers me the most is not the apparent lack of foresight as to the horrendous problems this snap decision caused, but that the consequences seem hardly to have mattered to you at all." Alaric focuses his gaze on Ford. "I expect the peers of my Compact to have a care for the lives of their subjects, and the consequences of their actions. Thus far you've declined every opportunity to show some."

At the mention of House Riven, the Countess herself cocks one black brow. As might be expected, after all -- it was the name of Mia's home, Mia's ancestors, Mia's people being invoked. It would be expected for her to have some reply. Should be expected, really. And after a moment, she rose. Should she be expected to explain herself or any of her actions, she stood ready to.

"Funny how you consider being held 'accountable' as the same as being 'on trial'. Supposedly, you were taught by my uncle, Niccolo Velenosa, in the art of politics and rulership at some point. It's so funny... I also studied under Niccolo Velenosa and I cannot imagine that he would ever call what you have done wise or competent stewardship. People are -dead-, Marquis Kennex. -At your hand-. Can you at least pretend to show a little remorse for it?" Eleyna shakes her head in disgust and looks away, as if dismissing the Marquis.

Aiden is overheard praising Alaric.

Reese is overheard praising Eleyna for: The archduchess speaks so powerfully and truthfully.

Samael is overheard praising Alaric.

Samael is overheard praising Eleyna.

Reese is overheard praising Alaric for: Alaric is rockng rulership. he is wise and sees things clearly.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Lark before departing.

Carita Darkwater, secondary Voice to her House, steps lively into the Assembly of Peers as though she were merely /fashionably/ late. Stoically calm, but confident. She finds her place to seat amid the benches and does so demurely, although perched right at the edge of her seat. Hands folded primly in her lap.

Luis has left the Lyceum Benches.

Leana, an Igniseri Guard leaves, following Luis.

"I believe that it is well known the Valardin inclination towards chivalry and honor, as well as our distaste for thralldom. And so I say that the work of freeing thralls is in itself a good one. A righteous one, even." Alis inclines her head towards the benches where the Faithful gather when she says it. "But for the love of the Gods, Marquis. So many lives. /Innocent Lives/!" she exclaims. "You could have done this in so many different ways. We all know that it will take long term solutions. I cannot adequately express my disappointment or my anger at what has happened. I will not even try. I leave it to Duke Grimhall and His Grace."

Eilonwy has left the Commoner Benches.

Eilonwy has joined the Redrain Benches.

"I have every possible care for people who live among my March. To think that I don't care that they've died is presumptiuous in and of itself, because I don't express my inner feelings and thoughts to a crowd of people that I barely know. Of course I care, your majesty, but I also know that the people of Stormward are stronger than that." Ford nods, "I've held myself harshly accountable for the decision I made long before I stood before you all, I know all of their names, but where 200 died, thousands are now free. They have the rest of their lives ahead of them, free to do anything they want, to go where ever they want. And if thirteen thousand men, women, and children can go free for the price of 200? Your majesty.." Ford takes in a breath and exhales it slowly, the sliiighest tremble, "Is that not what leadership is? Making impossible decisions? If it's not then.." He looks to Eleyna, "You're father taught me wrong."

Eleyna checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 13 higher.

Valencia rises gracefully from the benches, her face tense and eyes dark. She glances towards Ford as he speaks of Niccolo and her jaw sets a moment and her eyes flash. Another breath and she departs briskly.

Valencia has left the Lyceum Benches.

Alaric leans forward. "Marquis, two hundred died and not twenty thousand because -we- stepped in with a large flotilla of aid and literal shiploads of silver to save your people from total societal collapse. Unless, of course, you're giving yourself credit for intentionally sabotaging your own March for political purposes."

"No. He did not teach you wrong. You simply didn't listen when he taught that leadership isn't for the glorification of the leader but for the care of those that we lead! You let people die and expected the Compact to mop up your mess because of your vanity." Eleyna sneers, bristling, "-Seven- hundred dead, Marquis Kennex. Seven hundred. And you still sit there and act like very death is justified. No, you learned -nothing- from my uncle and based on what I'm seeing now? You've learned nothing from this either."

"We cannot always make the best decisions, but we can try," Lark replies simply, flatly. Her mirror-dark gaze slides to Ford, watching him. Before she says for the Crownlands: "Thank you for reporting on the events that lead up to our involvement in your realm, Marquis Kennex."

Carita has joined the Thrax Benches.

Corban has left the Valardin Benches.

Captain Reedy, a Telmarine military aide leaves, following Corban.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Lark before departing.

Carita is sitting so still, so quiet. So A hand lifts, a few fingers, wordlessly asking for permission. Although, with the way that the rest of the Assembly is proceeding, she probably should not speak.

Darrow is overheard praising Ford for: For standing alone, even if on shaky ground, in the face of consequences and angry lords.

Octavia also raises her hand, wordlessly asking the King's permission to speak.

Tikva has left the Grayson Benches.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

2 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Confessor Warren have been dismissed.

5 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

Alaric gestures to Octavia to go ahead.

Cristoph has left the Valardin Benches.

Octavia touches her brother on the shoulder and whispers something to him as she passes by, then turns to face the benches. "Your Majesty, Your Graces, Peers of the Realm, I've spent the last few weeks in the March, attempting to restore order and to coordinate the aid you've so graciously sent. I know many of you have seen reports, but I've seen the effects of my brother's decision for myself. Seven hundred dead that I'm aware of, thousands without homes or work."

"I've sat in this Assembly for fifteen years, under my father's rule and my brother's. I've heard many voices call for abolition of thralldom, some more vehemently than others." Her eyes casting around land on the Grayson bench for a moment, perhaps not accidentally. "If the devastation of Stormward March has one positive outcome, let it be to set to rest the debate over whether or not absolute abolition is an acceptable course of action."

"I will not begin to try to defend the decision to abolish overnight - what was done was foolish and ill-considered, but to sit here and split hairs over exactly how he screwed up accomplishes exactly what? How does this bring justice to those who are suffering? I cannot say that it does. Certainly my brother has some soul-searching to do, but that will not come here, nor can it. To those who condemn him for expecting the Compact to fix his mistake - please know that was not the case. I don't think he expected it to get this bad, or he never would have done what he did."

"We, the people of Stormward March, are immensely grateful for your aid and your kindness in these times. We certainly didn't expect the people of the Compact to come through for us like you have. In the wake of the decision, I was expecting the March to be devastated for centuries, but through your kindness it may only be decades. Again, we thank you for your kindness and support in these trying times, and I open for questions."

Reese raises her hand when Octavia speaks of being open for questions.

Octavia nods towards Reese. "Princess Reese, go ahead."

Lark shakes her head simply. "No, I am sorry, Lady Kennex. You are kind, but this is not an open forum. I would encourage my cousin to seek you later for questions."

Reese rises to her booted feet, pink boots of course. She is about to start talking until Lark speaks. She blushes as pink as the ribbons in golden curls and then sits back down.

Aislin turns her attention to a retainer who brings her a messenger, and then quietly excuses herself from the Grayson benches. Slipping out past others, she makes her way out of the Assembly to deal with... well, whatever it is her messenger was about.

Aislin has left the Grayson Benches.

Willen leaves, following Aislin.

Octavia presses her lips together as Lark shuts the question down, and then waits, eyes on the voices table.

Ainsley lifts his voice from the Grayson bench, "My apologies, your grace, I know this isn't open floor but-- can the Lady please clarify. Is she claiming this is proof that Thralldom cannot be abolished?"

"I believe the Chief Magistrate clearly said instantaneously, Prince Ainsley," Alaric declares.

"Thank you, Lady Octavia. Clearly in hindsight some rather fundamental miscalculations were made. It would be better if they were errors of judgment than intentional, at the very least." Alaric turns from Octavia to Ford. "Marquis Ford, the Crown has great respect for the proper bounds of fealty as set down by the Laws of Limerance. Whenever possible all problems should be solved between direct liege and vassal, and if not then by the Great House's mediation first." He glances to Victus with a light nod before regarding Ford again. "However, the Crown does retain the ultimate authority to issue banishments upon any member of the Compact deemed to have committed transgressions that have materially harmed it." He pauses significantly. "I feel this power is best exercised only when all other options have been exhausted. In the wake of this disaster, I encourage you to further consider what would be best for the House Kennex and the people of Stormward going forward and whether their future is best served under your stewardship." He smiles diplmoatically. "Thank you for testifying in person tonight. Your willingness to appear before the Assembly of Peers does House Kennex great credit."

"She said absolute, nor instantaneous. This is hardly the place to debate such a thing, however," Lark corrects of her cousin, quiet and flat.

*not instantaneous

Carita thins her lips, glances down toward her folded hands, and nods - taking the time to digest what was spoken.

"I apologize if I misspoke," Octavia replies. "When I said 'absolute abolition', what I meant was abolition overnight, as opposed to a more gradual abolition."

Standing up low, Zerric silently dips low as he weaves his way out from the benches, hoping to keep a low silhouette so as not to disturb anyone while he leaves the Assembly.

Alaric rises. "It's rather late in the evening, yes," he declares dryly. "Thank you all for your attention and observing proper decorum. I declare today's Assembly adjourned," he announces in a clear voice. "May our Compact rise ever stronger."

Zerric has left the Lyceum Benches.

Ford dips at the waist, a proper, precise the-kind-they-teach-in-school bows towards the King, "Thank you, your majesty."