The calling of a full Assembly is an occasion of much pomp and ceremony. The King’s Own guard the entrances and ensure that all present enter only after surrendering or peace-knotting their weapons. Officious looking Court functionaries are on hand to help those uncertain of where to sit to their seats. The Regent arrives last, garbed in leather and fur and glinting metal, trailed by a secretary and a full complement of more King’s Own. These men and women fall away to take positions behind the largest of the tables as the young woman moves to the seat reserved for sovereign or regent. She is not slated to sit there long but while settled, she meets the eyes of the High Lords and their Voices, inclining her head to those who hold her gaze and murmuring words of acknowledgement to those who greet her directly.

When the High Lords are seated and the Assembly has been settled, Dawn rises from her chair. She is trained for this, to speak before multitudes, to project with the acoustics of a chamber so that all might hear, even those in the far seats. As she speaks, voice raised and carrying, there is a somber note in both her tone and her expression.

“We call this Assembly of Peers to order and declare it open. As we sit in judgment of the perils that face us as a people, facing enemies who stand against the Compact, the Faith, and the Pantheon, we ask Legate Orazio to come forward to bless these proceedings and our leaders with water blessed by the most holy.” Dawn’s pale eyes skim to the High Lords again. “Each High Lord will have their hands and temples touched by this holy water, that our thoughts and actions may be purified as we deliberate the future of our Compact and so that all may witness and know the purity of our intentions.”


Duke Somhairle Crovane, wrapped in his gleaming white-gold furs, enters the assembly alone. He is clad in fine, if unremarkable, leathers beneath, simple-made traveling clothes, with bone and feather woven through his hair and ears. He makes his way to the Redrain benches with a languid gait, soaking in the ambience with each heavy-booted step.

Somhairle has joined the Redrain Benches.

Natalia has joined the Grayson Benches.

Donrai looks up at the speck of holy water with his unblinking eyes, not moving a muscle as it flicks on him. "I feel more blessed already."

The Inquisitior Alistair stands away from most when the Regent makes her entrance and the King's Own flood the Assembly in their display. His eyes are not upon Dawn and her guards though, his gaze flitting from one person to the next watching who smiles and laughs, who whispers and frowns. The Inquisitor's eyes sweep over those present... perhaps looking for someone or some thing, though as Dawn begins her address he idly turns to regard her.

Joboo the tunic'd capuchin have been dismissed.

Desiree has joined the Valardin Benches.

Orazio gives Aldwin a concerned look, but before he can say anything, the Assembly has begun! The Legate rises smoothly to his feet, and gestures for a prepared chalice to be brought forth, brimming with blessed water. He moves to the table where the High Lords and their representatives sit, offering a deep bow to the Lady Regent, and then to the table, before turning to address the gathered. His voice rolls out, solemn and practiced. “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 continues the prayer as before, and when he finishes, he begins to move to each High Lord in turn, offering the lightest of dabs on hands and foreheads, as well as a murmured, "Be blessed by the Pantheon, and walk in the light of the gods." Unless, you know, someone refuses.

Rowan has left the Valardin Benches.

Lark lowers her head submissively and says a quiet prayer as Legate Orazio comes to her where she sits in Grayson's High Lord chair.

In comes Tobias Telmar... who wears the Crimson Blades tunic he usually sports. Silently, he goes to take a seat, his gaze sweeping over those assembled briefly as he does.

With Dawn rising to stand, Darren will look up to the Regent to listen to her words. His attention will then shift to Orazio, before he bows his head respectfully for the blessing. There is no refusal to being dabbed on the hands and forehead with the holy water, and he nods to the Legate after he is finished.

Rowan has joined the Valardin Benches.

Tobias has joined the Valardin Benches.

3 Grayson Guardsmen arrives, following Mason.

Dafne has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Alis keeps her head bowed respectfully during the blessing; both the speech and the watering. It's both before and after Orazio has performed the speechifying and sanctifying that she leans over to speak quietly with Edain.

Mason has joined the Grayson Benches.

Niccolo's schooled features turn to Dawn as she speaks, and the duke then lets his gaze go to Orazio next. When the Legate approaches, the Velenosa nobleman dips his head, allowing the blessing and closing his eyes briefly as if in prayer.

Dafne hurries in a little late, pink-cheeked and short of breath (and, for once, kitten-less). She blinks at the front of the room and tries to hurry up to the Lyceum benches as quietly as she can.

Lianne has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Abbas has left the Thrax Benches.

Must've been a baby-related issue for Mason's tardiness. Sweeping in wearing one of his more formal of thobes and quietly moves to the Grayson benches to watch the ongoing talks.

Edain bows his head to accept the blessing. of the Legate of Concepts. A more private prayer is uttered before he looks up and reguards the restof the High Lord's and voice's gathered.

Khanne has left the Redrain Benches.

Serenity have been dismissed.

Deva shrugs at her brother, then looks to Orazio as the ritual begins. She is compliant, but silent, and her hands fold together in her lap as it finishes. There's a glance toward Alis and Edain, a clearly curious expression on her face.

Whisper, Slayer of Mice have been dismissed.

Dawn has continued to stand throughout the ritual of blessing though like Lark, she bows her head in silent prayer as Orazio performs the blessing. Once that is done, she lifts her chin to regard the Assembly again. "Following the previous Assembly, the messengers of the Compact, peers of the realm, a Legate of the Faith, and many holy Templars were brutally assaulted and killed by means unknown. Others simply vanished. The deaths of the Legate and Templars was used to summon a foul beast of the Abyss within the Oathlands. That beast was tracked and killed by brave Arvani, men and women seated here among us even now. We call upon Lady Eirene Malvici to share with us what was discovered, during the hunt for the thing, and in the aftermath while studying the remains."

Pietro has left the Lyceum Benches.

Khanne has joined the Redrain Benches.

Darrow reverently, stoically keeps his head bowed through Orazio's prayer, then he turns his head to look down his own bench.

Assuming none refuse the blessing, Orazio concludes his rounds, bows again to the table and to the Lady Regent, then returns to the Godsworn benches, assuming his seat in a rustle of robes. Only then does he lean over to speak quietly to the Archscholar.

Sir Rymarr watches from behind the table which the Lady Regent Dawn, House rulers, and their Voices reside. Throughout the opening words that Dawn speaks the knight watches the gathered masses, but the helmet of the knight turns to monitor Legate Orazio when he steps forward to conduct his blessing. If his hands were not full with shield and morning star, it could be assumed that two fingers would be pointed at Sir Rymarr's own intense blue eyes and then toward the Legate. Once the blessing has been completed, Sir Rymarr's watchful gaze turns back to surveying the room as a whole and those within it, or at least attempting to.

Sigurd has left the Redrain Benches.

Cassius, the big Knight of Solace in shining armor seated with the Faith, dips his head as Orazio gives his blessing. Once it's through, his eyes are back up. He looks down at the High Lords, pareticularly at Darren and Deva. He watches for a moment, then his eyes are over to the Lyceum bench, where he watches for a moment or three, and then finally he spends some time staring towards Redrain. Eventually, it's back to the regent, and then over to Eirene.

Angelo watches the blessings with impassive and studious eyes -- his irises lingering mostly on the blessings. His fingers weave on top of his lap, sitting with a straight-backed posture and a well-puffed chest. At the mention of an abyssal beast, his eyebrows twitch with focus -- gazing amongst the benches where he is seated for the recently summoned Lady.

Sigurd has joined the Redrain Benches.

Abbas sits quietly and turns a moment to look quietly for a time. A small dip in his head and a Thraxian quick smile. The smile fades and he is silent at his benches. Just observing with a cold stare at the precedings.

Donrai looks on unblinkingly as the Legate concludes his prayer and his eyes shift to Dawn, "I am certain they killed something very impressive, bards will song, the commoners will delight in the stories, foul beast from beyond the pale et cetera. Why did the Iron Guard try to have you murdered?"

Dressed formally in ornate leathers done in the black and crimson of her house, the tall lanky figure of Lady Eirene moves up to the podium. She has little trouble projecting her slightly husky voice to the whole of the assembly, standing with perfect posture. ?My lords and ladies, gathered nobility and observers ? several months ago it was made known that the prior Legate of the Shield was waylaid on her journey from Sanctum to Arx and disappeared. I was part of the investigation team which discovered she and her retainers had been captured and sacrificed in an unholy ritual which summoned a demonic beast known as a hoardling. It is considered a lesser demonic creature.?

There is a noticeable lack of swear words in the woman?s vocabulary tonight and the presence of a noble bearing that she rarely displays. This is Eirene in business mode. ?A scouting party discovered the creature in the woods near the Greenmarches, near Sanctum, and that it had corrupted the surrounding regions and native Shavs. A second party, which I was the medic of, went to kill the beast and we were successful although our rear guard was killed in action. There were curious reactions to our attacks which prompted us to take a sample of the demonic tissue for further study to verify the effectiveness of various folk-lore and storied ways to defeat them.

She ignores any murmurs or outburst of reaction to that news and raises her voice to overcome them. ?Our study team consisted of religious experts, medical experts, and seasoned warriors; all precautions were taken regarding exposure and religious sanctification. We have discovered the following.
One: Diamondplated weapons work very well against demonic tissue, producing a searing effect.
Two: Alaricite blades slice through with even greater efficiency and actually dissolve the tissue away.
Three: Blessed water from Mangata?s shrine causes an acidic effect which destroys demonic tissue.
Four: Blessed fire from Lagoma?s shrine cleanly and neatly burns demonic tissue away. By comparison, standard water, fire, and acid work as one may expect them to with no spectacular results.
But these ancient legends and long held beliefs are true and verified by the study team. We have ways to defeat our foes with greater efficiency and some measures to defend ourselves. Further work will continue as we are able.?

Eirene places a hand over her heart in salute to the gathered, nods to the Lady Regent, and then returns to the benches with her fellow Lysceni. She assumes questions will be posed later.

Pietro has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Darren turns his head to Eirene, studying the woman as she speaks. Something that she says makes him frown, but he says nothing at all. Instead, he turns back to the table and specifically focuses on Donrai for a moment, before shifting to Dawn to see what her answer is to the question asked.

Alistair's normal dour expression does not seem to change a bit as Dawn delivers her news of what happened in the Oathlands, his eyes focused upon her and then Lady Eriene as she recounts her encounter with the demonic beast.

Alejandra, a snowy white hound arrives, following Ainsley.

Ainsley has joined the Grayson Benches.

Alejandra, a snowy white hound have been dismissed.

Samantha has joined the Grayson Benches.

Niccolo studies Eirene as she speaks, the glint in his eyes a little clinical even as he listens to the woman's words. But once she's offered what she has to say, his attention, like Darren's goes to Donrai and from him, to Dawn.

Tobias brings his eyes from Eirene over to Dawn, after Donrai's question. A curious brow is raised.

Alis certainly seems to agree with everything Eirene has said, and gives the woman a grateful nod when she's finished speaking. Which is about as expressive as she's gotten so far for the evening. And shortly afterwards goes back to appearing about as soft and biddable as her steel armor is, turning her attention to both Donrai and Dawn.

Damon is statuesque in his demeanor, total undivided attention on the speaker, only his foot bobbing idly. When she finishes he draws in a small breath and lifts his chin.

    Julea watches on from an aisle seat with the Redrain's, hands together in her lap, atop a tricorn hat and her attention fixated solely on Lady Eirene as she addresses the sizable crowd. Strangely, the woman's words don't seem to surprise her, and she gives a single nod.

Mason wasn't at the second expedition, but he did lead the first, and everything that Eirene seems to say, he seems to agree with, nodding once in approval.

Esera has left the Voices of the Realm.

The Lady Regent returns Donrai's regard with a calm, level gaze. "The answer to that is coming, your Grace. This all has bearing on what must be decided tonight." The Prince of Maelstrom answered, she faces the crowds again. "The Crown thanks the efforts of Lady Eirine, as well as those who tracked and killed this abomination upon our lands. Each of you is to be commanded for your bravery, and for your steadfast commitment to the safety and welfare of your fellow men and women."

Dawn pauses here to draw a breath, to compose in her mind what is to come next. She has been somber throughout. Here, a note of sorrow enters her tone. "Since the King’s Rest began, we have become aware that agents of our enemies reside within the walls of our city, and have acted to harm both the Compact at large and the individuals who call it home. Since the beginning, we have known that someone led his Majesty the King to venture into the Night Grove, disrupting the ritual of the Teind performed by the Nox'alfar. We have made it our foremost mission to discover who was responsible, and what we have learned grieves us to our very core." She pauses again. "The Crown calls upon Lady Cara Ashford, to speak of the investigation and its results, which will answer the questions our people have regarding the events surrounding the Iron Guard," is intoned before the Regent takes her seat to give Lady Cara the floor.

As Eirene stands and speaks about the Saiklands and the tragedies that befell, Larissa's gaze upon her is intent and impassioned. The Whisper gives the Noblewoman a nod and listens intently to the precious information that came at such a great sacrifice.

Esera has joined the Voices of the Realm.

Cara Ashford rises from the Grayson benches and bows briefly to the Regent and those seated at the High Lord’s benches before beginning. "Our city, and indeed, all of the Compact, is in very grave danger from a force known as the Bringers of Silence, and I have made it my personal mission to discover who they are and what they have done, as much as possible." Cara speaks clearly, calmly, but not without emotion. Her hands are folded together neatly in front of her as she continues, "To that end, I have been investigating, searching for the man who ordered an agent to disrupt the meeting of the king’s retinue at the Night’s Grove. I know this agent, because I found out after his death that it was my late husband, Addison Ashford. He was ordered by letter to ‘direct the King’ to disrupt the meeting there, bringing violence down upon them all and breaking our treaty obligations.
Through my study, I discovered that in addition to causing the massacre, these agents of the Rex’alfar - called the White Stewards - began a campaign to disrupt and destroy the Abandoned of the Gray Forest, all to weaken the Nox’alfar, their foe and our allies. They manipulated our lords into war, and more, they used foul magics to appear as beings of white light to holy people, convincing them that they served the Pantheon when in fact the tasks they carried out were at the behest of the Rex’alfar. I have a great deal of information more pertaining to these White Stewards, but I feel as though I should sum up, to be brief." Cara takes a breath. "I found a letter among my late husband’s things, in Lord Everard’s hand, specifically ordering him to betray the King to break the treaty. In this way, and through investigating his patterns of movements, I determined that Lord Everard worked for the White Stewards, serving the Rex’alfar who now move armed, unnatural forces through the Crownlands. When myself, Marquis Vincere as the Minister of Defense, Duke Leo as the Minister of Loyalty, and the Lady Regent herself went to speak to Lord Everard, to ask him questions about what may be happening, he drew live steel and set to attempting to kill the Regent and setting loyalists among the Iron Guards to the task as well. We were lucky to survive; only a truly heroic stand by Duke Leo allowed us to escape. I owe my deepest thanks to Duke Leo and the House of Fidante, indeed, we all do." She looks down. "I believe my theories and evidence have been shared with the High Lords, but if it is wished, I can provide them."

Esera is a veritable inferno of rage as the acts that drove her mother to her death are described, but she is at least a quiet inferno. She remains silent in her seat, and still.

Edain says, "I would like them shared for the record of this Assembly."

Eirene's expression is unreadable and formal as she nods to those that make eye contact with her. But when she sits back down the formality stops and she relaxes posture and stern demeanor. She listens to the next part with a scowl.

Maidservant Lisette, Squire Arron, Dash the Corgi arrive, following Silas.

Lydia has joined the Thrax Benches.

Darren nods to Edain, and lofts a brow. "Can we be told when Addison Ashford and Everard Telmar's betrayal was discoverd?"

From the Valardin benches, Princess Sophie, ever dressed in her Mercy's robe, attentively listens. When her Highlord cousin speaks, her blue eyes alight on Edain.

Silas has joined the Grayson Benches.

Donella has left the Voices of the Realm.

As the information is given, Tobias narrows his eyes, but otherwise says nothing for now.

Deva tenses, giving Esera a very pointed, frustrated look from across the table. She is stone where she sits, with only the slightest movement as she turns to listen to Cara's summary.

Lydia has left the Thrax Benches.

Lydia has joined the Redrain Benches.

Listening from the Valardin benches, there is a hint of a morbid frown etched on Percephon's features, those brown eyes raptly focused upon Cara as she relays her news.

"I am happy to provide my research, Prince Edain," Cara confirms, voice clear, and glances across the assembled High Lords, and then to Dawn, before taking her seat.

Leo has left the Lyceum Benches.

Silas arrives unspectacularly and takes a place near the Grayson benches. He motions for the rest of his ragtag retinue to sit nearby.

Edain nods to Cara, "Thank you. And this confrontation, It happened at the Iron Guard Garrison, after Lord Everard refused to answer a summons correct?"

Giving a mild frown, Mason leans over to speaking with Killian.

Kieran has left the Redrain Benches.

1 Redrain novice guards have been dismissed.

"Yes, my lord. Minister Vincere requested that the Lord Commander visit the palace council rooms, where we could inquire about what had been found. He said that we could visit him at the Barracks, but when we reiterated the request to come to the Council Chambers as an official command of the Throne, he refused to respond. At which point, we visited the Barracks to speak with him there." Cara answers, rising again. The movement seems to pain her somewhat, but only a touch. "The Ministry of Defense has responsibility for the Iron Guards. Thus the request was made in that fashion, according to protocol."

"This information only very recently came to light. Addison Ashford died in the Night's Grove, with those whose murders he had orchestrated. The authorities moved immediately to take custody of Everard Telmar with the intention of detaining him peacefully for questioning." Dawn tilts her head to survey those seated at the high lords table. Her expression remains controlled. "He served the Crown, here in the Crownlands. It was for the Crown to move against him, and when we were able, the High Lords were then informed. Should any wish to take insult or umbrage at not being notified beforehand, they may do so with me. Afterward."

And then she rises again, a move intended to draw the eyes of all.

"My mother was sent to her death," Esera says. Her voice rises in power, the anger in it a controlled thing. "The Nox'Alfar were used to murder her. She was a piece played in a game we did not even know we were playing. I would have offered all that I had and all that I am against these men -- but I was not there to do it, and I will not take umbrage."

Reese has left the Grayson Benches.

Darren remains tight lipped, though he does lean to murmur something to his sister. Afterward, he will fold his arms over his chest, looking at those who are speaking at the table in turn.

Ainsley wathces those who speak, gray eyes shifting from person to person. His expression impassive.

Nodding, Mason reaches over to pat Killian's shoulder, perhaps in comfort. That done, he's still been listening to those that have been talking.

"And then the Minister of Defense /walked/ the Regent of the Crown, into a Garisson where people have been serving the Lord Commander for, close to a decade I believe. Why was he ill prepared to deal with that?" Edain asks, still his expression is largely passive.

Cassius has left the Godsworn Benches.

Cassius has joined the Godsworn Benches.

Eirene snarls slightly at the 'game we don't even know we're playing'. That line resonated with her. "That's why I want to find ways we can cheat," she says gravely, all jesting aside. Louder than she realizes.

    "So Lord Everard still lives--" Julea says, a touch louder than she of wished and after it, her tone drops and she continues in more of a murmured whisper at the Redrain benches.

Valencia has joined the Redrain Benches.

Donrai turns his masked face towards Tobias, singling him out of the entire peerage as his uninflected voice speaks to the Telmarch lord, "Would you be so kind as to tell your father that we will not hold the treasonous catastrophic betrayal of his own brother in any way against the Telmarch, nor believe that it applies to all of House Telmar. Again, we do not think that all of House Telmar are traitors that should be put to the sword. Nor does it reflect upon the Oathlands as a whole. Their honor is, of course, above reproach."

"The Regent of the Compact walked herself to the barracks and called on the traitor to present himself," Dawn says to Edain's questions. "It is what one does, when one has legs of one's own. If the Council wishes to discuss this matter further, we may do so after we discuss the larger issue at hand. The Regent is not dead, and she wishes to address this Assembly further. With your permission, your graces."

Alis wishes she had one of those peanuts that were being flung around earlier. So she could plink one right off Donrai's forehead right now. But at least she barely manages not to scowl at him.

"I would, if he was in speaking terms with me." Tobias replies.

Deva leans back in her seat after giving Darren a brief, low response and a fervent shake of her head. Then her focus is largely on Edain as he poses his question, head tilting slightly to one side.

Niccolo's face remains impassive when Esera speaks. Although those dark brown eyes, narrowed as they are do look to his daughter and watch her as she speaks. The duke himself remains silent, except for a few murmured words offered to those he shares the table with. When Dawn speaks, the man glances in her direction as she responds to Edain.

Valencia slips in the back like a little shadow and makes her way to the back of the Redrain benches.

Mason is chewing on the inside of his cheek, then folding his arm over his chest. Sounds like he's muttering something in Eurusi, but it's sorta hard to tell. Either way, it doesn't sound all that pleasant.

While voices rise and tempers begin to make themselves known, Sir Rymarr remains steadfastly in place a few paces behind the table featuring the High Lords of the realm. From within the recess of his helmet's Y-shaped opening, the intense blue eyes of the King's Own surveys the massive audience. The knight in his steel armor could very well have been fashioned by the hands of one of Arx's talented smiths, statuesque he remains in his stillness.

"I am not asking these questions out of spite, I am asking these because I can think of no less than 5 ways myself or the Telmar's could have helped you resolved this in a way that did not end with a traitor at larger. The Compact exists to support and help one another, even if we are not always good at doing that. Next time, I would recommend letting us help." Edain says calmly, "I have more to say on this issue but it can wait for another time. I have no objections to moving on to the next matter."

Alis leans over to whisper something to Edain again, though it's really unclear from her still-guarded expression what sort of thoughts she is offering.

Dawn speaks, and she has a great deal to say. "Five hundred years ago, Queen Alarice the Great entered into an alliance with the Nox’alfar, joining forces with them to protect the Compact against the armies of the Sylv’alfar. In the years following, the Nox’alfar performed the ritual of the Teind, which protected themselves and the Compact from the armies of the Rex’alfar, and the unleashing of the Silence, with the aid of the Abandoned tribes of the Gray Forest, who paid the blood tithe needed to see the ritual completed," she begins. "Many years ago, a servant of the Bringers of Silence, a servant of the Rex'alfar, under false pretenses, convinced the Graysons that the Abandoned in the Gray Forest were a threat, and the Graysons commanded Bisland and Ashford to war against them; many were killed, some tribes wiped out entirely. There were fewer to volunteer for the Teind. One year ago, my brother was manipulated by an agent of the Rex’alfar to lead a party to a place holy to the Nox’alfar, there to interrupt the ritual of the Teind. It was a mistake, a lie, but it was effective, as their past lies have been effective. The Nox’alfar believed us their enemies, we believed them ours. Our King was given into a ritual that cast his soul from his body, to wander without rest or promise of Elysia. Our High Lords were slaughtered. And the Teind was not completed. Our borders were unprotected.

"Since then,” Dawn goes on, "the servants of the Rex'alfar, the Bringers of Silence, have been massing in our lands. They are soulless husks, hollowed out of anything resembling their former humanity. They and their human agents have been here for many years, acting in the interests of their masters. They have infiltrated our most trusted organizations and killed those we would turn to to lead us through this. Now, they assemble an army of those Abandoned who have been corrupted or misled, who have likewise been hollowed out of anything like humanity. They are touched by demons. They have become Abyssal."

The Regent lets her gaze wander the benches holding the Assembly, and then her eyes move to each of the High Lords, one by one. "The Teind is a shield that protects Arvum and keeps the Silence at bay. The Silence is a plague, a magical plague. It consumes magic, it blights, it scrapes all that is alive and vital away, leaving nothing behind. The Rex'alfar mean to unleash it upon the Nox'alfar, who are themselves users of magic. And when that is done, they will turn it on us... if it has not already run wild and consumed us by then. For in our blood is the blood of the Nox'alfar, who once married our peers, and had children with us. We are the enemies of the Rex'alfar because they believe we are already corrupted by the Nox’alfar, and therefore we must also be wiped out."

Dawn draws herself up and her eyes return to the stands. "The Nox’alfar envoys will be here within the month. They bring with them the alaricite weapons that were promised by the terms of the treaty. They bring the intention of marrying one of our own. They bring the expectation that the Compact, which has killed those who would have paid the Teind, which has interrupted the ritual that would have protected us all, will pay the blood price. We face a threat the likes of which has not been seen since the days of Queen Alarice the Great, and before her, King Alar, during the demonic assault of the Reckoning. What we decide here today determines the fate of our people, not just those who live within these walls but all of them, everywhere. Humanity itself. Thirteen must go. Thirteen must give their lives.

"But I have recently been told that I cannot speak for the Compact in this matter and so I put it to the High Council. We will begin with Alarice's descendants." Dawn looks to the Voice who sits for the Griffin in her stead, focusing on Lark. "Grayson, what is your vote on the matter of the Teind?"

Maximilian mutters... "Well -shit-..."

Lark rises from her chair, clutching both hands in front of her at her bodice. She loses much of her height when not sitting but holds her chin high. "House Grayson votes in favor of the Teind," she calls aloud before sitting.

Darren frowns as he listens to what Dawn says, before he lifts his voice. "Before we vote, what assurances do we have that the paying of the Teind will continue to work?"

Eirene may not have cursed during her briefing but she is now, expressing a bit of concern at her bench.

    "Which thirteen?" Julea asks, her voice rising a touch from what ever comments she made to the Redrain benches and those gathered around her. "Are they to be of noble blood? Or will this be a random.. picking name out of hats."

"They must be willing volunteers." Damon says from his bench.

Donrai never blinks his cold blue eyes, just staring at Maximilian for a moment wordlessly before he turns his mask back towards Dawn. There is not the slightest inflection in his voice, "I could have thirteen men, women or children there to die in a day, and I could guarantee they would be quite willing. It is one to me whether it works or not. Of course Thrax would pay this Teind. You needn't ask."

Dawn inclines her head to Princess Lark. "Grayson's vote is heard and recorded." Her eyes move to find Darren's. "Provided we reach out to the Abandoned who remain, who were not slaughtered for a lie, or corrupted, or turned from us for our brutality, the assurance is that they will return to volunteering, for it is their holy duty and honour to do so. On this occasion, to make reparations, it falls on us to volunteer. Thrax's vote has been heard and recorded but we will disregard their suggestion for -how- the Teind will be paid. Redrain, we would hear your vote on the matter of the Teind. What would the North have us do?"

6 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Orazio crosses his arms over his chest, and projects stony silence. And a frown. SUCH a frown. As the others at the godsworn bench speak, he just frowns even more.

"My question was not answered. What assurance do we have that paying the Teind will drive back the Bringers and shield Arvum from this threat?" Darren lifts a brow to Dawn. "How do we know that the Teind protects Arvum as a whole, and not just the Nox'alfar? If the Nox'alfar are coming in under a month's time, why do we need to make this decision here and now? We could speak with them. Ask these questions. Get our answers."

Deva narrows her eyes at Donrai after he speaks, scowling openly. It melts into a grim expression as she turns to her brother, taking a deep breath as the conversation goes on.

Niccolo turns pensive at this topic. He looks to Esera and from her, to the Lyceum benches. His eyes narrow, and there they rest with a certain nostalgia. He dips his head, and when he looks to his daughter again is with a tilt of his head.

Maximilian has left the Thrax Benches.

Pariah, The StormCrow have been dismissed.

Cassius can be seen gritting his teeth then whispering a few harsh words to the other at the Faith's bench. The knight quickly silences himself, murmuring an apology, and resorting to looking angery, and doubly so for the words that slipped out. The scowling intensifies, as he watches the High Lords and Regent.

Aldwin checked composure against difficulty 7, resulting in 17, 10 higher than the difficulty.

Tobias checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 19, 4 higher than the difficulty.

As Dawn recounts the dealings of the elves and their abandoned Allies, Alistairs does not look surprised. The wild born man glances about as everyone hears the price they must pay in order. That safety must be earned in blood, though far from the blood of the battlefield that those of civilization prefer. Sacrifice. True sacrifice. Veins opened and lives offered.

"Because I have asked the questions and received the answers. The Teind has protected us, and did so until it was interrupted. It shields Arvum and has always done. Until it was interrupted. Once it is cast, it will ensure that the Silence does not roll over our lands. When the Nox'alfar arrive, they will do so expecting the matter to be decided. We ask again, Redrain," Dawn says, "what is the vote of the North?"

Donrai looks at Darren then to Dawn, "The Prince of Farhaven and highlord of the Northlands would rather not offer human sacrifices to the men that killed his father. I confess to being unsure if it is a 'no pending answers', but it certainly was not a 'yes'. Perhaps it could be recorded as 'dither'."

Kieran smirks at Donrai's statement, before pulling out a bit of parchment and taking a few notes on what has been discussed in the meeting thus far.

Maximilian has joined the Thrax Benches.

Darren looks to Donrai. "I do not believe you speak for the Prince of Farhaven. The Nox'alfar murdered our people and ask for more blood. And when I asked you prior, Lady Regent, you told me that we could ask these questions to the Nox'alfar when they arrive. If we sacrifice thirteen people on the basis that the Nox'alfar said that's the right thing to do, are we truly making the most informed and best decision? And what of your brother, the King Alaric?" He lofts a brow. "Will they be undoing the curse they put upon him, if we give them thirteen people? I believe I have a right to make a wholly informed vote, before House Redrain casts their voice into this matter."

Tobias says, "They're calling for thirteem people to ruin themselves for a blood ritual. I'm pretty sure that is both a crime in the Compact, and there is absolutely no way to verify this, because we don't actually understand how this shit works."

Dawn listens in silence and then inclines her head to the Prince of Farhaven. "Redrain abstains. Let it be recorded." She turns her head to find Edain, her eyes meeting his. "Valardin, what is your vote on the matter of the Teind, what is the answer of the Oathlands?"

"I have not abstained from my vote, Lady Regent," Darren says immediately afterward. "And I believe that the people of Arvum deserve answers to the questions I have posed."

Abbas has joined the Thrax Benches.

Hadrian pipes up, "Why thirteen, again? Just real quick, why that specific number?"

Margot has left the Thrax Benches.

2 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller have been dismissed.

At Hadrian's side, Kima adds, "I do believe thirteen were also sacrificed within the Dark Water."

Dawn checked command + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 36, 21 higher than the difficulty.

"Number of gods," Kieran offers in quick reply to Hadrian.

Aldwin checked composure against difficulty 7, resulting in 9, 2 higher than the difficulty.

Hadrian merely lofts his eyebrows toward Kieran, and mouths, 'why?'

Maximilian glances over at Kima. That pause makes a big difference. 'in the dark water' vs 'in Darkwater'.

To that Kieran offers a shrug and a 'good question' look.

Kima had meant, specifically, in the Dark Water Deeps.

Edain rises as it is his turn to give his vote, "The Oathland's vote no." He says plainly, "We seem to be taking much of this on the word the Nox'al.." he pauses as if he know she's going to butcher the name yet again. "of the Twilight Court. If this was truly, the only way to save Arvum, 13 of their number would've had the courage to complete this ritual. So clearly there is another way to save Arvum, this is just the one that inconviences them the least so they can go back to getting portraits of them posing with pigs painted or whatever they do to amuse themselves."

"Let it be known that House Redrain casts no and will not support paying the teind at this time," Darren remarks and leans back into his seat with a shake of his head. "But I do not believe that we should be having this vote now, when questions are asked and go unanswered."

Nadia is overheard praising Darren for: You ask all the questions people seem to forget they need answers to.

Dawn draws herself up. While her composure and dignity has remained intact throughout, now that are wielded like a weapon. "The Assembly will hold its peace until the end," she says, and though it does not seem she raises her voice, it rolls over the crowd all the same. "We are aware of the immensity of what has been shared here. We know it touches against the very core of every belief we have ever held. It will be addressed respectfully." Then, without missing a beat, she pivots slightly to incline her head to Edain. "Valardin's vote has been heard and recorded, as has Redrain. Velenosa," she goes on. "How votes the Lyceum?"

Angelo's eyes travel to Esera, watchful and studious in equal measures.

Aislin scribbles something furiously at the Grayson benches, and directs one of the pages to carry the resulting message over to Edain.

Julea is overheard condemning Dawn for: She refuses to answer the questions we all need answer too and willingly leads us to commit crimes and sacrifice blood in a ritual.

Margot has joined the Thrax Benches.

Esera sits tall in her chair, her gaze sharp and bright as she looks out across the chamber. "The Teind is abhorrent," she says. "You will find that many things in this world are." She looks from face to face at the central table, from high lord to high lord, voice to voice. "I did not wish to take this evil upon the Compact. I did not wish this to be what we become, as the world awakens. But there will be no world to awaken to, if we do not." She pauses. "I will not sacrifice the world. I will carry the guilt and the grief of these thirteen lives." Now, she looks to Niccolo. Looking at him, her heart all but breaks. Whatever look is exchanged between father and daughter, it is a painful one. "House Velenosa votes in favor of the Teind."

Maximilian glances at Julea - brows drawing down. He gestures to Julea with his chin and says something to Abbas.

Darrow checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 20, 5 higher than the difficulty.

Rowan checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 12, 3 lower than the difficulty.

Sylvie checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 13, 2 lower than the difficulty.

Eirene angrily produces a flask from within her coat and slams back a drink. The Malvici woman is furiously holding her peace- for now. Perhaps the fact her people have supported it keeps her in check.

Muiryn checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 16, 1 higher than the difficulty.

Inquisitorial eyes slowly sweep over to Julea as she can be heard issuing a condemnation of the Lady Regent. Alistair says nothing besides, his stare the only comment before his eyes return to the High Lords and their votes.

Eleyna checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 17, 2 higher than the difficulty.

At Esera's vote, Darren simply shakes his head, and moves to whisper something to Edain.

The Duchess Sylvie is the mirror-opposite of the Lady Eirene. Disappointment passes her features, tears catching in the corners of her gaze as she shakes her head slowly.

Rowan had been pacing at the back of the benches, watching the happenings with tension, and as the last vote is cast, he turns on his heel to walk from the room.

Rowan has left the Valardin Benches.

Donrai turns his unblinking blue eyes to Esera, "If it troubles you, I can provide them. It would not be difficult. I can explain my position to my uncomfortable member of the Inquisition or Faith of the Pantheon back at Maelstrom."

"And I will be the first of those thirteen lives," Niccolo speaks out, after Esera makes her vote. The duke rises, looking at everyone gathered. No noble, however great, is greater than their house. No man, however noble, is greater than the people that look up tot hem. "If this sacrifice will be made," he looks to Dawn then. "I will be the first. And no other member of my House will need to answer the call."

Eirene is overheard praising Niccolo for: A true fucking patriot for the Compact!

Valencia stands up eyes wide, "NO!"

Valkieri is overheard condemning Darren for: Unwilling to sacrifice for the good of the Realm.

Valkieri is overheard condemning Edain for: Unwilling to sacrifice for the good of the Realm.

Muiryn looks like he's on the verge of biting his tongue off for keeping it still, but he does, just. He doesn't even turn his head to see Rowan storm out but brings a hand to his face to pinch the bridge of his nose.

Belladonna checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 23, 8 higher than the difficulty.

Samantha is watching the voting, her face becoming more and more stonelike until at last, the dam bursts. "House Deepwood requests the floor!" She calls out, her voice rich and vibrant.

Esera looks up at her father. His declaration does not surprise her. Not even a little bit. And perhaps this is the reason for the heartbreak she wears so obviously.

Somhairle is overheard condemning Niccolo for: More nobility than sense. What good will that do your family?

Angelo checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 20, 5 higher than the difficulty.

Angelo checked charm + performance against difficulty 15, resulting in 30, 15 higher than the difficulty.

Dawn checked command + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 55, 40 higher than the difficulty.

Fiachra checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 21, 6 higher than the difficulty.

His voice momentarily rising from the continued chatter at the common benches, Costas grunts out a rough invective.

Dawn's voice cracks out. "THE ASSEMBLY WILL BE SILENT."

Eleyna checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 16, 1 higher than the difficulty.

There's nothing hopeful about Deva's expression. Her arms cross as she stares at each speaker in turn, the grim look in her eyes unwavering. There's a moment where she presses a hand to her brother Darren's arm, but she voices nothing at this time.

Lydia checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 16, 1 higher than the difficulty.

Costas is overheard condemning Dawn for: Ever since I stepped off the boat I've been finding new blunders she has led us into.

Tristram raises his hand, politely.

Larissa turns her full attention to Niccolo as he speaks, her face awash with both shock and awe.

Belladonna's attention jerks around when Niccolo speaks up, and she stares for a moment. Frozen. It is the entirety of her reaction for a moment, before she smoothes her expression back out to calm, stares down towards her hands.

Natalia drops Nightfall, a diamondplate sword.

Angelo watches Esera's voting decision and it doesn't draw any reaction -- neither displeasure nor pleasure. There's only a faint, idle look on his eyes and that deceitfully neutral line on his lips. When the voice of Dawn cracks across the Assembly, his shoulders jump a little, his fingers lacing once with the other. He was already silent, and so he continues to do so.

Natalia has left the Grayson Benches.

Nadia squeezes her eyes shut when Niccolo raises his voice to name himself the first of thirteenth. She draws in a quiet breath, knuckles turning white as fisted fingers are pushed down in her lap. Grief flickers over her expression before she merely raises her chin, letting her gaze return to the table of high lords.

Valencia remains standing, eyes on her uncle.

Alis links arms with her brother, to show her support for his answer regardless of what anyone else says about it. Niccolo's pronouncement shocks her and she looks up in sharp surprise; her expression at once both sad, but understanding.

Kieran just grins as he looks around at the chaos brewing, taking it all in as people offer condemnations, opinions, dissatisfaction, and Dawn shouts for the room to quiet.

Lark raises her voice, nodding to Dawn, "Let House Deepwood speak."

At the Thraxian benches, Victus gives Niccolo a thoughtful look. He grunts. He scratches at his thick beard, and then he says something to the people around him in a quiet rumble.

Lark picks up Nightfall, a diamondplate sword.

Jaenelle looks towards her father in law, perhaps not quite as surprised at his declaration though not exactly expecting it. She offers him a slight dip of her head in respect.

"The Crown recognizes House Deepwood," Dawn says, her eyes the same shade as drawn steel as she turns a look to Samantha.

Tristram continues to politely hold his hand up, in the hopes that Dawn will recognize him.

Hadrian is overheard praising Niccolo for: Sacrifice.

Mason is overheard praising Niccolo for: Ahj'on guide him.

Jeremiah watches Samantha rise and approach the floor consideringly, tensely, quietly, appraisingly--he scratches away at his notes, utterly uncertain.

Samantha rises to her feet, a hand briefly pressed to Gabriel's shoulder. She murmurs softly to Gabriel, and then walks forward. "Your Highnesses. I do not know if my words will sway you, but I may be able to offer some enlightenment as to the depth of the situation we now face. I know just how far the Rex'alfar will go to prevent the Teind. If you will hear me, you will see that if it did not hold power, they would not have taken the steps that they did." She looks at the Voices who have cast nays. "Will you hear me?"

Maximilian nods approvingly at something Denica says at the Thrax Bench.

Darrow is overheard praising Niccolo for: Abject Nihilism.

Sigurd has left the Redrain Benches.

"You've been given the floor, Duchess. Speak," Darren says to Samantha, looking up at the woman as she addresses him and Edain.

Darrow is overheard condemning Hadrian for: Not being pious enough to realize that thirteen sacrifices reflects the Pantheon's number.

Valkieri is overheard praising Niccolo for: He has taken on a great sacrifice for the good of his people.

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

For the moment Sir Rymarr remains utterly still, even through the shouts and emotions which run high. He takes no forward step nor appears to grip his weapon nor shield tighter. The knight of the King's Own remains sentinel to the congregation, though his helmet shifts ever so slightly when Samantha Deepwood steps forward to claim the floor. As quickly as the First Captain's attention shifts toward her, it just as quickly shifts away to again return to surveying the gathered masses.

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

"Father..." Esera says. There is an entire council around them, but she looks like she is alone, sitting there. There is sorrow in her gaze, to look at Niccolo. Her mother dead to the Nox'Alfar. Her father, too. That sorrow turns to steel. To something cold, and hard. She is encased in it -- in strength, and in grief. She looks to Samantha.

Denica is overheard praising Darren for: For being questioning of the proposed blood rite, despite political pressure.

Maximilian glances over at Darrow, giving him a shushing gesture. Time for dissing people later. When they can't -hear- you.

Costas is overheard praising Niccolo for: Actually Noble

Angelo checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 27, 12 higher than the difficulty.

Bethany is overheard praising Niccolo for: Standing up.

"We can't ask them to do, what we're not willing to do ourselves," Niccolo offers quietly to Esera, without looking at her. It's not her Voice that speaks, but her father. He sits down, turning his attention to Samantha as she speaks.

Valencia whispers quickly to those around her, her eyes on Niccolo. She cannot seem to find her way to sit down just yet.

Muiryn is overheard praising Edain for: Strength, and honour of the Valardin. Made the Oathlands proud.

Aislin is overheard praising Niccolo for: A sobering example of how leaders should be willing to sacrifice for their people.

Victus is overheard praising Niccolo for: There's something to be said for doing yourself what you ask of others.

Muiryn is overheard praising Darren for: Asking the right questions, and not backing down.

Sylvie is overheard praising Edain for: For doing what is right.

Monique is overheard praising Darren for: For asking the questions we still don't have answers to, but need to know.

Leo rises from his place at the Lyceum benches, peaceknot tight about the hilt of his sword, and gives Niccolo a low bow before reseating himself.

Sylvie is overheard praising Darren for: For doing what is right.

Angelo is overheard praising Niccolo for: An example of wisdom and leadership.

Sophie is overheard praising Darren for: For refusing to make a poorly informed decision.

Bethany is overheard praising Edain for: Speaking out against the Teind.

Killian is overheard praising Dawn for: Because a true leader must be able to do what's necessary, even when it is not what is popular or what they would want.

"I know," Esera says to Niccolo. Daughter, to father. "I ... knew that look. I am sorry, Father."

Monique is overheard praising Edain for: Standing up for his beliefs.

Sylvie is overheard condemning Niccolo for: I won't forgive you.

Sophie is overheard praising Edain for: I am ever so proud of you.

Alistair steps back briefly as a Confessor motions for his attention. The two whisper quietly and then Alistair waves the man away. The Confessor departs, though not without giving a glance to the room. Alistair simply stares at the High Lords as they issue their votes and those that serve under them make their own voices heard with hushed praises and condemnations.

Donrai looks forward, his blue eyes locked on Samantha as he waves a gloved hand, "Ignore the rabble babbling, Marquessa Samantha, and please continue."

Muiryn is overheard condemning Niccolo for: A noble act, for a bloody ignoble cause isn't worth any praise.

"Speak, my lady," Dawn adds her voices to the others urging Samantha to share. She remains standing, grim but steady in her focus.

Samantha begins to walk the length of the table, her hands darting as if she's going to fold them in front of her body, but eases them back. Her knuckles are gone white. "Many of you know the story of House Deepwood. How all were slaughtered by shavs, save for the youngest child of House Deepwood. Samantha. This is a story that is true, but it is wrapped in many, many lies." Stopping, she says, "When Samantha Deepwood was born, she had a birthmark; in the shape of a star. Some of you may have seen this shape, it is the mark of one of the Lost. It is the mark of the god the Rex'alfar worshipped before they turned their backs and embraced the way of the Silence. When this child was born, they sent their agents to Deepwood with two goals - to murder Samantha Deepwood, and to set our kingdom on a path to launch an assault on the shavs of the Gray Forest."

"Their agents infiltrated Deepwood and convinced the family that they should disguise themselves as merchants, installing decoys to remain. The disguised family were delivered like pigs to slaughter to those who awaited them, exactly as was planned. The entire family was killed." She looks around, waiting for that to sink in.

Kieran listens to all of the praising and condemns going around and uses the chaos to hand Darren a note.

Lark watches with a sympathetic frown as Samantha crosses into view. She listens respectfully without needing her own voice to be heard above the rest. Her small hands fold in her lap.

Darren shifts to watch Samantha, his brows lofting as she starts to pace in front of the table and begins to tell her tale. He is watching her very closely.

Joscelin stares at Samantha Deepwood, a woman she shares sympathies with, and stays silent, respect as is due a woman telling such personal history.

Lydia has left the Redrain Benches.

Donrai nods at Samantha, "Thus providing an extremely pointed lesson about nobles ever pretending to be commoners."

Lydia has joined the Commoner Benches.

Lydia has left the Commoner Benches.

Calypso has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Lydia has joined the Redrain Benches.

Edain watches Samantha Deepwood for a long time before asking, "So why are you telling the story of yourself in the Third person?"

Samantha continues, coming to a stop in her walk. "Amongst those decoys, they took the daughter of a servant woman many believed to be the Marquis' byblow, all of five years old, and twisted her mind, making her believe that she was Samantha. It was their hope that she could be turned into an agent of the Rex'alfar. But they did not expect the response of the Deepwood's liege lord." She looks over to Gabriel. "They slaughtered all the decoys but the little girl. For effect. And Duke Bisland slaughter them. He raised the girl, taught her the meaning of honor, duty, leadership, and loyalty. And so when their agent in Arx tried to exort her, use her fear of being caught to get her to do the Rex'alfar's bidding...she refused." She looks to them. "That is a mere sample of how badly the Rex'alfar will go. How badly they want to stop the Teind. And here I stand before, ready and willing to forfeit all to prove to you how necessary this is. Please, Your Highnesses...bring this into your consideration. They would not do so much to stop it if it were a worthless act."

Maximilian leans over to murmur something to Denica, voice low.

Angelo pauses to listen to Samantha, before he rises from the Lyceum benches and begins to head towards the entrance, departing from the Assembly.

Angelo has left the Lyceum Benches.

Donrai turns to the other highlords and casually gestures to Samantha, "Should we execute her for impersonating a marquessa?"

Maximilian blinks once. "Wait. Did she just say she's not SAmantha Deepwood?"

Esera turns all of her currently considerable grief and fury upon Donrai, with a look.

Alis tunes out the hubbub around them, keeping her gaze focused on Samantha during the telling of her story. She gives the woman a brief nod - totally ignores what Donrai said - and then whispers to her brother.

"She is not yours to execute," Dawn tells Donrai pertly. "The Assembly will be silent, while the Crown renders judgment."

Lark is overheard praising Samantha for: A brave and Noble heart to her core.

Aislin is overheard praising Samantha for: It takes courage to make an admission of information that's needed, when you know the personal cost will be high.

Pietro has left the Lyceum Benches.

"I took my oath of fealty as Samantha Deepwood." Samantha stands tall. "I answered the banners as Samantha Deepwood. And I risk all on behalf of Arvum. I have spent most of my life as Samantha Deepwood. If my death will make you believe the necessity of this act, so be it."

Pietro has joined the Lyceum Benches.

As Dawn mentions a judgment to be rendered, Alistair raises a hand and motions for a duo of Confessors to step forward incase Dawn orders that Samanatha be taken into custody.

Deva is overheard praising Samantha for: Bringing truth to light.

Edain smiles to Samantha and says, "YOu are a brave woman with a noble heart. That was brave of you to share. However that also confirms that the Rex'alfar are an extreme danger Teind or no. I think we need to find a nother way to to fight them rather than hide behind the Nox'alfar's rites."

"Serene as the deepwest wood!"

It's a brief cry from the Grayson benches: Jeremiah. He looks surprised he uttered it, but he did. He goes back to writing after.

Darrow stares at Samantha, his watery-blue colored eyes flat and stern.

Alis is overheard praising Edain for: You got it right! Nox'alfar!

Edain blinks... Holy shit he did!

"Your Highness...we need the Teind. The Rex'alfar fear it and the Nox'alfar for a reason." Samantha replies to Edain.

Alis high-fives her brother! Discreetly.

Darren offers a nod to Samantha. "House Redrain thanks you for your words, but House Redrain's vote stands. We should have more information, and answers to our questions, before we ever go down the path of offering thirteen sacrifices."

Bethany rises from the Commoner benches, chin lifted, to stand up in solidarity for the Marquessa Deepwood. And, seated again.

Tristram stays in his seat, politely keeping his hand in the air.

Dawn turns to Samantha. For the first time, her mask of composure is set aside, and what shows beneath it is grief. "You know what is in our heart. You know how it grieves me to speak these words. You have held your March under false pretenses. You are not Samantha Deepwood. You are hereby stripped of your title, and the name that you held, which was not yours, nor ever your right to wear." The Regent must expect an outcry to this, so she raises her hand to forestall that cry. "For the service to the Compact that you have provided over many years, for your service here tonight, for the courage and hope you provide to all of us, the woman Ivy is raised to the peerage, named Marquessa of Deepwood and accepted here within this Assembly as one of our own. The Crown thanks you, Marquessa. Now please sit. There is more that must needs be said."

Maximilian glances at the ceiling.

Eirene takes a swig from her flask in preparation for this to avalanche.

Victus shakes his head at Dawn's words, a sour grimace of disapproval on his face.

"My father will give his life for the Teind," Esera says. "I lost my mother to the Nox'Alfar. I lose my father to the world." She rises, palms flat against the table before her, shoulders back. "For it is the world that he defends. He defends every beat of your heart, and every breath. But he does not defend my heart, because my heart will go with him." Her grip upon the table tightens, knuckles whitening. "And I will not change my vote," she says. "Some of you weep, for this evil. /Good/. Sit and weep and know that you did not choose it. Know that you are innocent of it. You need not carry this guilt. But some must."

Donrai waves a hand dismissively, "Victus had to kill a duke in order to matter. But as you will."

Samantha curtseys low, and without futher word, return to her seat.

Belladonna huffs out a sigh, letting go of cousin and brother to instead bury her face in her hands for a moment. Still, she does eventually put her hands back in her lap, sits up, and goes back to watching.

Edain looks to Donrai, "If your liter carrier's volunteer for the Teind I know a lovely carpenter in Sanctum who can make you a nice pony drawn cart to get around in."

Aislin finally stands up, clearing her throat. "Prince Edain," the Ashford voice says finally. "If you have information I don't on how to defeat an archfiend once they break through into this world, I'd dearly love to know it. Because so far as I can tell from my studies, the last time it happened... well, we call that the Reckoning. And it took a great many powerful mages -- most of whom died -- to put an end to it." She shakes her head once. "The Teind is a horror, but the alternative is rather more so. And the Bringers and their army are already massing: there are thousands of them -- thousands! -- in the Gray Forest."

Darrow glances to the rest of the Thraxian bench, a palm-up gesture indicating Samantha to those he sits with and offering a sour, I told-you-so sort of shrug.

Denica is overheard condemning Dawn for: It seems, perhaps, as if she might accept a lot of what she's told.

Dafne is overheard condemning Darren for: A man who grandstands on unanswered questions he had months to ask has failed his people, and all the people of Arvum. A coward and no true leader.

Alis glances at Edain. "But what pony is going to volunteer to carry it?"

Somhairle is overheard condemning Dawn for: Law might be a polite fiction, but polite fictions shouldn't bypass law.

Tristram speaks: "I *might*."

Hadrian is overheard praising Dawn for: A shocking decision.

Ainsley unfolds from his spot briefly, takes several long steps, and sits down next to Samantha-slash-Ivy.

Standing as Samantha makes her return, Jeremiah -remains- standing until she does-so, then settles down once more.

Sir Rymarr remains standing, as ever.

"The High Lords of the Compact have spoken. The Crown does not acknowledge others to speak right now. You will listen for there is more to hear." Dawn pauses here, long enough that her silence stretches into territory that borders on weighted and ominous. She tilts her head as she maintains her quiet, that pale gaze sweeping the Assembly and then lifting as if in a study of the building itself. This chamber, where her Father once stood where she does now. A breath is taken and slowly released, which seems the signal for the Regent to once more resume her role. "Within the month," she begins again, "the envoys of the Nox’alfar will arrive with weapons and the ability to negotiate their aid and support through the conflict with House Aetheris and the Bringers of Silence. Now, more than ever, it is imperative we work as one. Five kingdoms, one purpose, and that is to shield our people from absolute destruction. For this reason, the Crown clears House Telmar of all suspicion of treason. When Everard Telmar took up the mantle of service to a foreign power, he forfeited all right to the honour and sanctity of so great a name. Likewise, the Crown clears House Ashford of all suspicion of treason, and considers the actions of Addison Ashford to be his own, doing the bidding of Everard Telmar and House Aetheris. We will not act against those who have only ever been loyal and true to us, in times of great need."

Alistair betrays no emotion at the judgment issued by Dawn, the man making a slight motion. One of the Confessors withdraws, clearly not needed. The other lingers.

Esera, having retaken her seat, is silent. Tempestuous, certainly. If the air could crackle around her, it would. She is, nonetheless, quiet.

a Palace Servant has left the Commoner Benches.

Tristram continues to politely hold his hand up. He'd make a stamina roll, but he's an archer; that arm sees a lot of working out.

Victus is overheard condemning Samantha for: A liar, thief and impostor, somehow improbably rewarded for it. So much for nobility. So much for laws.

Monique is overheard condemning Dawn for: Only allowing the talk and stories that push the agenda she wants.

Victus is overheard condemning Dawn for: Rewarded a liar, thief and impostor. So much for nobility. So much for laws.

Valencia slowly takes her seat again, face now impassive and cold, like a prettly little doll.

Hadrian is overheard praising Samantha for: A bold apex of a plot, quite courage.

Lydia is overheard praising Darren for: It takes a lot of bravery to stand up against the sway of your peers!

Lydia is overheard praising Darren for: It takes a lot of bravery to stand up against the sway of your peers!

Dawn goes on, "At a time like this, with war now on our doorstep, we cannot be without strong leadership. His Majesty, my brother, continues to sleep, and has no legitimate heir to take up the mantle of King or Queen of the Compact. I am not a Grayson, by the will of my family, nor do I desire the crown or the throne for myself. I have only ever tried to serve, to do well by my people, and those I love more than any other." Dawn’s expression remains impassive through this, her voice level but tension has gathered in the corner of her jaw, and along the set of her shoulders. She lifts her hand, her finger decorated with the silver griffin of House Grayson, the only mark of rank she has worn as Regent. "My last act as Regent is to name Princess Lark, who is a full-blooded and legitimate heir of the blood, as High Lord of Grayson, to lead that Great House in my stead. I hereby abdicate my place and will no more seek to lead the Compact or a House whose name I do not bear. I will serve elsewhere to ensure the safety of the Compact and the people whose lives I made solemn oath to protect, before the sight of the gods and my own conscience. I have agreed to pay the Teind. I am bastard born, the blood of Kings and the blood of commoners. I am the Compact, recognized by the Nox'alfar as so and accepted by them. I have twelve who will go with me, volunteers all. It is already done. Gods bless and keep you, your Graces, my lords, my ladies. There are others who wish to be acknowledged here and more to debate, but I must go now."

Dawn removes the ring and sets it on the table before Lark’s place. Her speech thus ended, she steps aside from the chair in which monarch or regent sits and, with a glance at the King's Own who had escorted her here-- and who now move to follow her from the chamber-- she proceeds up the aisle, head raised and eyes fixed ahead.

Denica winces, empathetically, to Tristram, whose lone hand continues to be elevated long minutes after she had first spotted it.

Dawn has left the Voices of the Realm.

Aislin checked composure against difficulty 20, resulting in 3, 17 lower than the difficulty.

"The fuck?" Eirene just lets that fall, eyebrows shooting upward in disbelief of this turn of events.

Donrai speaks with no inflection at all, his voice still dead and completely even, as it has been throughout, "Thank you, commoner Dawn Baseborn. Shall the other highlords wish to discuss the regency at this time?"

Maximilian hisses.. "Well -SHIT-."

Mason checked composure against difficulty 20, resulting in 15, 5 lower than the difficulty.

Samantha checked composure against difficulty 20, resulting in 21, 1 higher than the difficulty.

a Palace Servant stands and moves towards the doorway, unobtrusive.

"I--ah. Damnation," Jeremiah mutters as events proceed apace, staring after the departing woman--L'contrat, c'est moi, apparently. He rises to watch her go, staring and then looking towards Lark, then looking back. He's awed, himself.

"No," Esera snaps to Donrai.

Larissa is overheard praising Dawn for: Most epic mic drop ever.

Ainsley checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 31, 16 higher than the difficulty.

"WHAT?" Aislin kept her peace right up until the moment when Dawn mentions she's going to pay the Teind. The look she shoots the former regent -- her friend -- is one of utter confusion. Perhaps even a touch of betrayal on some level.

There is a moment where he is simply stunned. And then Valkieri rises, and there is open and honest terror and anticipatory grief in his expression. "Dawn!" he yells, and he is scrambling out of the benches, running for her, /racing/ for her, trying to grab her.

Lark looks up, settling her eyes on Dawn and makes no move to hide her grave disappointment. Her mouth presses into a single flat line. There is no sign of surprise. Not even mild. After pause, she daintily plucks up the ring and slides it onto her finger.

Mason suddenly swears loudly in Eurusi. Hard to say what he said, but it wasn't anything all that pleasant.

With great personal and philosophical difficulty Costas lets the quietest of appreciative snorts slip his throat for Donrai's jab.

Samantha looks up at the news, eyes wide with shock. She says nothing, she doesn't move, but she keeps her peace, at the moment.

Kieran blinks at that announcement and looks to his brother, Darren, giving a bit of a shrug, before watching Dawn head out.

"None greater than!"

Jeremiah loudly hails after the departing woman--Grayson's words. Referencing a Baseborn, today.

Victus 's expression turns dark, a flicker of betrayal shining through his dark eyes. Then he shakes his head, and makes a scoffing sound of part contempt, and part dark gallow's humor and amusement. He stays where he is, attention turning back to the High Council and the matter of a vacant Regency before it.

Silas facepalms. Loudly.

Alistair gives a slight downward turn of his lips at the proclamation that Dawn gives, the Inquisitor taking a moment to step forward... if the Kings Own allow, talk in a hushed voice with Dawn as she moves to depart.

Darren's eyes widen as he stares at Dawn as she makes her speech, but he's kind enough not to stare with mouth agape. He shifts a glance to Donrai with a quirked brow, then back to Dawn as she starts to walk out of the room. Though Esera says no, Darren frowns heavily. "We need to discuss this," he says to Esera, "We cannot leave the Regency empty again."

Jaenelle looks towards her grandfather, a small shake of her head at his words and the snap in return by Esera. Ah, family.

Front her seats in the Valardin benches, Monique can't help but grin and stifle a laugh for Donrai's last comment.

"If you wish," Esera says, and she is far more obliging to Darren.

Eirene glances at Donrai like a student appreciating the master at work.

Dawn is surrounded by King's Own and they are not shy about clearing the woman a path. Those who seek to follow are barred as the once-Regent proceeds from the Assembly.

Tristram is sure as shit persistant because, even as the hall breaks out into chaos as Dawn does the biggest "mic drop" in Arx history, he keeps holding up his hand.

12 King's Own Guardsmen, Linden leave, following Dawn.

Killian checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 23, 8 higher than the difficulty.

Aldwin has left the Godsworn Benches.

2 Faith of the Pantheon novice guards have been dismissed.

Scholar Neve have been dismissed.

Niccolo watches Dawn leave in the same manner as he does most things, with an impassive expression. He reaches to put a hand on Esera's arm, when she responds to Darren.

Aldwin has joined the Godsworn Benches.

Marcas is overheard praising Donrai for: 'ow is i' tha' the masked man is one of t'only t'be showin' 'is true face?

Gian curses in surprise under his breath at the back of the Lycene benches, hastening to start after Valkieri as the Duke moves forward, lest his liege Lord run face first into the King's Own.

Calypso crosses one armored leg over the next as she watches the proceedings from here on our with interest. A few murmured words are passed to her brother but she keeps her icy gaze settled to the front.

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

Pietro is sitting on the bench looking shocked. Tears reflect freely from his cheeks. He has a lot of feelings, OK.

Maximilian is overheard praising Donrai for: Prince Donrai is a true man of the isles. He is not the storm. He is not the surf. He is the eye at the center, from which all things spiral and surge.

Orazio radiates quiet shock, then icy disapproval. At what? Possibly everything on this continent. There are only stern frowns for all the world.

Hadrian stands, addressing the other nobles, "Forgive me, but I have been ill for the past week, and I fear I must depart. My dearest sister, I trust entirely, has my authority for House Malvici." The man looks utterly, and completely weary, as he intends a hasty, though results in a sluggish, retreat.

Alis just looks rather incredulous, really. That's about all she can manage as the table tries to decide whether to press the issue of a new regent right this moment. Or...not.

Hadrian has left the Lyceum Benches.

Maximilian lifts his flask in Donrai's direction, a tip of respect, before he decides that the best respect, is to drink it.

"The regency must not remain empty," Lark agrees with Donrai, turning to look over the High Lords, "Dawn has renounced that which is her duty at a most inopportune moment in our history -- at a time during which the Compact is in most desperate need of stable leadership."

Samantha is overheard condemning Darren for: I expected better of House Redrain.

Cara presses her closed fist to her chest, breathing ragged as she watches Dawn and her escort depart. There is a sheen of tears in her eyes.

Alistair is rebuffed by the Kings Own, the Inquisitor looking peturbed... but then he always has such a look about him. He follows the contingent of guards and Dawn from the Assembly for the moment.

Kima watches as Hadrian departs, fingers twitching at her sides.

Eirene rises with concern as her nephew departs. "Excuse me," she says worriedly, the doctor and physician exiting behind him.

Samantha is overheard condemning Edain for: I expected better of House Valardin.

Bethany leans forward, studying at all the Grayson gathered - blinking bright eyes, to hail, "High Lord Lark Grayson!"

Darren sucks in a breath and rises, lifting his hand. He looks towards the people gathered, and raises his voice. "I know this is shocking to all of you. I know there is concern. But the Assembly must continue on. We must respect Lady Dawn's requests." He then looks to the others at the table. "We cannot leave the Crown go without a Regent. We must go on," he looks to each of them in turn, "We need to make a decision."

"Let me /through/!" Valkieri screams at the King's Own, openly trying to shove through them, and there is open panic in his voice and in his face as he watches the door close on Dawn. It's only after she's gone entirely that he presumably can exit.

The Sentinel-sworn Knight of Sorrow, Darrow, has much the same expression on his face as he watches the assembly. His gloved fingers tap slowly on his knee.

Valkieri has left the Lyceum Benches.

Penelope leaves, following Valkieri.

Valencia takes in a long breath.

Samantha turns and looks right over at Maximillian, right in the face and lifts her chin. As if she's somehow silently challenging the Count of Darkwater.

Eirene has left the Lyceum Benches.

Cassius, sitting with those of the Faith, seems to have gone from scowling and angry to something far more stony. He sits, straight back, slowly looking about. It's the field awareness of a soldier.

Percephon has left the Valardin Benches.

Aislin looks... conflicted, as she continues to stare in the direction that the former regent departed. Sadness, anger, betrayal. Perhaps also a touch of pride? Regardless, her eyes are bright with a sheen of unshed tears.

Donrai makes no move to leave, "Prince Dagon would serve well at this time. He's young, capable, and has a kinder touch than me. Or you could opt for experience with a hand unafraid to take necessary actions, and I could serve as regent."

With the declaration made by Dawn, Sir Rymarr begins to step forward in order to see to her exit. She's quickly swept away by the King's Own and that leaves the First Captain of their ranks to stay behind and observe the Assembly of Peers. When a messenger sidles up to his side and quietly whispers to him, Sir Rymarr's helmet dips once in silent acknowledgement of the whispered message. A look is cast over the assembled masses, to whom Rymarr only seems to provide a stoic nod of his helmed head. He quickly returns to his duty, albeit in loosely, as his attention falls to the table of the High Lords of the realm.

Lianne watches the council with a somber calm as emotions surge nearby, as people flee and chaos threatens to end the Assembly before all matters are resolved. She, at least, looks determined to see what's decided, listening as names begin to be put forward, as the debate begins.

Maximilian's lips curl into a slight grin, but it might be hard to pick it from the from the scowl. "A liar pardoned and raised to power, as the last act of a resigning Regent. You have such a legacy to look forward too, Lady of the Ivy."

"Or.." Darren looks to Donrai, and shakes his head. "We could rule in unison, as council. There are five of us," he looks between them all, "There will be no concern of a tie vote on matters that concern the realm. Until such a time it is decided that King Alaric cannot be saved," he offers.

Esera bows her head to Darren, at the suggestion he offers.

Samantha calls out, "High Lord Lark for Regent!" Before turning to Maximillian. "A child manipulated by the enemy, only to remain loyal and true to Arvum."

Darren checked command + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 35, 20 higher than the difficulty.

"A council is slow to act," Lark suggests, "In times of war, such a thing cannot be. I agree that communication between us all needs to be a much greater priority, but we require a Regent."

"And still a -liar-." Points out Max, tipping his flask at her.

"If you are having a hard time /choosing/, may I suggest myself?" Duchess Sylvie Zaffria offers with a light smile. She stands. But then she addresses the council, insisting, "A decision is needed. A true decision, and now. Not a compromise. So says Gemecitta."

"The Assembly is still in session and we ask that you take your seats and be quiet as the High Lords deliberate," Darren projects his voice to the crowd, before he turns to Lark.

"The Grand Duchess of the Lyceum appears to second the nomination by the Prince of Farhaven at the suggestion of regency by council. The new Princess of Bastion stands opposed." Donrai intones without emotion. His eyes flicker to the side, "What says Sanctum?"

Joscelin looks at Maximillian, and speaks up, quietly, "It would be a master of the craft that recognizes one who's practiced it, despite her need to do so."

"I stand beside the Prince of Farhaven," Esera confirms her vote.

Ainsley looks toward Max at his calling of Samantha a liar. His lips curl up into a smile, but there is no warmth in it. All white teeth shown.

Donrai says, "House Thrax also favors with a degree of fondness the bold suggestion by the Duchess of Gemecitta."

Khanne is overheard praising Darren for: He stands strong in the face of chaos, not backing down against peer pressure. He bears intelligence with a true strength of character.

"House Valardin votes for Regency by committee. Maybe this will force us to communicate better, or die trying." Edain says.

"She'd be a great regent," blurts out Dafne at Sylvie's suggestion, and then claps a hand hurriedly over her mouth. She turns pink.

Orazio checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 17, 2 higher than the difficulty.

"Is House Thrax then casting their vote in favour of Lady Sylvie as Regent?" Darren asks Donrai, lofting a brow. "Or will you be weighing in differently?"

Damon is overheard praising Darren for: Don't put up with any shit.

Deva gives Darren's arm a quick squeeze, then she nods to the others. Except Donrai. "No thank you," she says flatly in response to his Thraxian suggestions.

Alistair returns without fanfare, as is his nature. Only to watch as the topic of the pressing cataclysm that is barreling towards them is pushed aside to decide the new Regent. Displeasure is an emotion he can display it seems.

"It is three to one, my vote makes no matter and would wither and die like the hopes of anyone that would accept myself, so to flatter the duchess, why not? It seems we have a regency by committee." Donrai answers, his dead blue eyes on Darren.

Cara says drily, "What could possibly go wrong."

Abbas has left the Thrax Benches.

Sylvie is overheard condemning Darren for: A compromise is not a true decision.

Sylvie is overheard condemning Edain for: A compromise is not a true decision.

Jaenelle looks towards the woman at her bench, "just moments ago you were going to kill yourself, now you've changed your mind and wish to be Regent?" Brows arching she then looks towards her grandfather and his fondness, shaking her head again.

Abbas coughs, 'Princess Donella Thrax' *cough* *mutter* *shifty-eyes*

Kieran streeeeeetches to hand Darren another hastily scrawled note.

Larissa is overheard praising Abbas for: Princess Donella Thrax

With Sylvie now making a claim to the Regency, Eleyna slowly rises from her seat, needing to use a nearby railing to support her effort to stand as her other arm wraps around her abdomen. Her normally pale skin is ashen at this point as stares at Niccolo from across the room.

Deva slides a hand over her cheek. "We went longer without a regent than the past five minutes. We don't have to nominate anything permanent tonight. Keeping council in the interim makes sense. If it doesn't work, we can address it as becomes necessary without making a rushed nomination."

Tristram continues, gamely, to hold up his hand. Apparently he still has something to say. Even if he doesn't get to speak, though, it's quite a workout.

Donrai comments mildly as he gestures towards Sylvie, "All would have loved her and despaired. A pity." He gestures randomly towards Tristram, "You may speak."

The decision made seems to be enough to prompt Rymarr to depart. The knight of the King's Own smoothly transitions from his statuesque observation to a forward march. He begins to weave his way through the assembly in his pursuit to depart. A hand moves to hang up his morning star at his left hip. As he passes by Tristram's upraised hand, Sir Rymarr's gloved hand extends up and forward to offer the Valardin Prince a high five as he passes by and onward, toward the exit.

"Then it is settled, and the High Lords have given their votes. We agree to rule as committee," Darren nods to each of the High Lords in turn, before he agrees with his sister. "I agree with Princess Deva. None of us were prepared, and the Regency is not a decision we should make hastily. It would have been nice had Lady Dawn given us notice, so that the High Lords could be prepared. However, this is what we do for now."

Sylvie is overheard condemning Esera for: A compromise is not a true decision.

Kima is overheard praising Rymarr for: Yes.

Darrow gruffly calls out to Jaenelle, the Knight of Sorrow offering gloomy opinion. "To be honest, the most recently demonstrated quality of a regent was the desire to kill oneself."

Tristram removes his plumage-covered hat and doffs his coat, stepping to address the Assembly:
"It is my hope, High Lords and Ladies, that my words may cause you to alter your thinking on whether we allow a single soul to sacrifice themselves just yet.

We have heard of the Nox'Alfar and the Teind; blood sacrifices to Gods we do not know to maintain a prison we have just discovered to prevent an enemy who is already harming us from harming us further. Now that the Bringers are afoot, and there are thousands, will the Teind suddenly put them back in the bottle?

I do not *know* that this is necessary. I *do* know that *OUR* Pantheon provides miracles to defend Arvum when it needs it most.

But a few months ago, I stood in defense of Arlenwood with seven men and a lion against a force of hundreds of shav chieftains who would certainly have slaughtered myself, my men, and razed the village in its entirety. On the eve of battle I prayed to Gloria, knowing I was marching into death, bound by honor to defend our people.

She answered my prayer. With three arrows, in shots far beyond my own skill, filled with the energy and blessing of Gloria, they struck the leaders of the enemy and their horde broke. Seven men and a lion against hundreds, and we carried the day. The people of Arlenwood call it the Battle of the Three Arrows, and accredit me with the victory, but it was not *I alone* who shot those arrows. It was GLORIA. And I know in my soul that while I could not call forth Her hand for selfish purposes, She *WILL* come to my aid when chivalry and a near-certain death defending the defenseless lies before me and I the only thing there to use as Her tool to fight for the Right.

If Gloria would do this for one Valardin Prince defending a village, what will She and the Pantheon do for Arvum *itself* in its time of need? What will the spirits of the Shamans do to protect the land? We know that Mangata's blessed water burns them like acid; we know that Lagoma's blessed fire destroys their demonic tissue, and I swear by my blood that Gloria used me as Her hand *directly* for a miracle to save an entire village. Our Gods provide *miracles* and I was the subject of one of them. Without exploring what we can do for *ourselves* to fight this threat, why are we sacrificing ourselves for gods we do not know? Do we so quickly turn away from the Pantheon in favor of other Gods? I do not doubt that this Teind has power. Yet I urge that we have faith in Our Gods, and at least take more time to consider this--and what else may be done--before coming to rash decisions. After all, the Nox'alfar are immortal. Two months or four won't make much difference for them."

Nadia is overheard praising Deva for: Being the voice of reason, just as Darren, in the midst of chaos.

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

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

Elonso has left the Lyceum Benches.

Donrai is dead silent for a long moment before he says, "Excellent story, Tristram."

Darren turns to listen to Tristram, nodding slowly. "An excellent and inspiring story, your Highness," he says to the man, "However I believe the matter of the Teind has been settled. Lady Dawn has made her decision, along with twelve unknown. While we may disagree, it is done." Then he looks to the High Lords, lifting a brow. "And unless anyone has anything else to say, I believe we can call the Assembly to a close?"

Sophie listens to her cousin Tristram's story, her expression infusing with the reverence of a devout disciple of the Faith.

Tristram says, "You now rule. You *can* undo what she has decided before more Arvani kill themselves for a barrier that has already broken." With that, he turns back to sit in his seat."

Ainsley clears his throat and stands a moment. "I know I am not a voice or a head of a household, but I am one of the few members of the Iron Guard officers left. May I have the, uh, council's attention?"

Tristram has left the Valardin Benches.

Tristram has joined the Valardin Benches.

"Does it have to be settled? With all due respect, I see no evidence that we have tried anything else. And it still stands that we do not know if this will even work," Valencia speaks out. "And Lady Dawn has stepped down. "

Lianne is overheard praising Tristram for: Evidence and faith, hand in hand.

"The former Lady Regent did not vote. The High Lords did, and they are all still present," Leo says.

Jaenelle checked command + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 47, 32 higher than the difficulty.

"Prince Ainsley," Darren lifts his voice. "Please speak. And I ask once more for quiet. The Assembly is still in session."

Bethany has left the Commoner Benches.

Silas glances up to Ainsley, albeit curiously. Which is better than the scowl he's been wearing for most of the proceedings.

Jaenelle looks towards Darrow, giving him a soft smile, "I prefer my leaders to be brave, yes, but alive."

Gian has left the Lyceum Benches.

    Julea is quiet, save for the ocassional whispered word to the Redrain benches, but when Prince Darren speaks, her eyes go to him, listening and then turning her focus to Prince Ainsley.

Gian has joined the Lyceum Benches.

"Why does anybody even bother appointing Voices when anyone and their dog can address the Assembly willy nilly?" Pietro asks, pitching his voice to carry with particular sardonicism. "All of you sit down, be quiet, and listen to Prince Ainsley who has actually been recognized."

"It will make a damned lot of difference to us if the bindings fail," Aislin retorts to Tristram. "Four months may mean the end of the Nox'alfar entirely, the way the Bringers are massing. Between restoring the bindings, and an archfiend crawling back into the world." She shakes her head, rising from the Grayson benches. Preparing to depart. "But perhaps the gods will spare us a second Reckoning. I'm certain the Rex'alfar will wait politely for us to make up our minds if we just ask them politely to keep Void from pushing back through." She's clearly prepared to depart, figuring she's about to be thrown out anyway for that.

Desiree has left the Valardin Benches.

Standing suddenly, Monique calls out, "The Lady Dawn refused to allow any speech or storty that did not push the agenda she had already decided on before ever calling this Assembly. She said as much herself when she stepped down. She /had/ the other twelve volunteers before ever stepping into this room /and/ had already spoken to the Nox'alfar about it. Your vote was merely her expectation to carry the decision she'd made without every consulting the High Lords. Why would you blindly accept that decision that she made and put into action before you ever got to vote?" She motions to Tristram, "You've just been given evidence to counter the imposter Marquessa's story of 'importance' for the Teind. Why leave that decision to stand when you yourself have questions remaining as to the validity of this course of action?

Damon is overheard praising Monique for: Preach

Kima seems to come to some personal decision, the blonde Lycene woman gets to her feet and departs from the Assembly.

Kima has left the Lyceum Benches.

Samantha seems inclined to remain until the session is closed. Likely to make sure they don't take the opportunity to reverse Dawn's decision concerning her.

"If the other lords will not act, then Grayson will -- it would not be the first time," Cara answers Aislin, also rising, and coolly casts a look across the dissenters. "Consider this my resignation as low councilor. And good bloody luck to you all, when they come for you, if we do not survive to lend our aid."

"I'm not going to rehash the Iron Guard's situation. You're all aware." says Ainsley, stepping forward. He looks a little bit uncomfortable to be standing there, but continues nonetheless. "The Iron Guard needs leadership now, and I would petition the council to either allow us to chose for yourselves who will be our new Lord Commander, or accept my nomination of-" Now he begins to shout over every other voice that is speaking, so that he can heard. Whether or not is necessary. "-Sir Silas Mercier. He's served well, and I for one would follow his lead without question." A hand gestires toward where Silas sits at the Grayson benches.

"In case it was missed because I am being spoken over." He all but shouts, "I put for Silas Mercier for Lord Commander of the Iron Guard."

Cara has left the Grayson Benches.

Aislin has left the Grayson Benches.

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

Muiryn rests back in his seat in the benches with a small grin for Monique. "She raises a good point," he rumbles.


    Denica's gaze remains long over Tristram, even after her grandfather gives him the equivalent of a slow clap--and even still as some exit.

"I will not ask again for silence in the Assembly," Darren rises his voice. "Respect the process. The High Lords made their decision. I doubt any of the ones who voted in favour of the Teind want to go back on that now. That matter is done. Lady Dawn has offered her life, and the lives of twelve others. The Teind will be paid." He looks to Ainsley afterward, and nods his head, "Prince Ainsley, your words will be taken into consideration."

Cara leaves, following Aislin.

"I know not this Silas, but if Prince Ainsley stakes his honor and word on the man, he has my acting approval to root out whatever rot remains of the traitor." Donrai says mildly.

Cassius, still with those of the Faith, seems to be discussing something with Orazio and Aldwin. Rather suddenly, the stern knight looks a touch... peaceful. Serene, maybe. Something has been said to him, and he dips his head low and reverently to the older men.

Killian has left the Grayson Benches.

Killian stands, without further word, and walks out after Aislin and Cara.

Mason has left the Grayson Benches.

3 Grayson Guardsmen leaves, following Mason.

Valencia looks up for some sort of guidance as the room errupts into chaos. She looks down as well, just in case.

Silas raises his brows at Ainsley's recommendation, before standing and bowing to the lords and ladies present. "I am willing to accept the mantle of Lord Commander, if the Assembly will have me do such." He then turns and nods to Ainsley. "Receiving your faith is a great compliment, Your Highness. Thank you."

Deva looks from Ainsley to Silas, nodding sharply in approval from her seat.

"The High Lords have deleberated and agree. Sir Silas, we will offer you the mantle of the Lord Commander," Darren replies, nodding his head to Silas after the High Lords have spoken. "We trust that you will lead them well."

Donrai turns his cold, unblinking gaze at Silas, "If any of the traitors remain, they will likely kill you. I would be thorough, Lord Commander Silas Mercier. Congratulations."

Standing suddenly with pride, the Guildmaster looks to Silas Mercier and just -beams- at him. Though she does remain silent, it is her respectful posture she directs to Silas.

Deva is overheard praising Silas for: He will lead well.

Calypso inclines her head towards Silas at his new appointment. She looks pleased by this.

Darren looks back over those still gathered. "Does anyone else wish to speak?" he raises his voice, looking across the stands.

Niccolo is overheard praising Silas for: You'll do well, Sir Silas. I believe in you.

Tristram says, "I'm not going to raise my hand again, High Lord, but I would ask the Council:"

Alis is overheard praising Silas for: To the new Lord Commander; congratulations.

Damon begins to rise from his seat, but stops as Tristram starts again.

Samantha is overheard praising Silas for: A truer man could not have been chosen.

Alistair returns to see Silas named as Lord Commander. The Inquisitior watches on as the Assembly comes to a close, and motions for Silas to speak with him quietly.

    "Aye, more than likely," the soon-to-be Lord Commander agrees with Donrai. Silas bows once again when Darren announces the decision. "Thank you, Your Highnesses. I will serve to the best of my capabilities and do my best to root out the traitors who have turned against the crown and their own brothers."

Tristram says, "Will the Low Council and the Ministries appointed by the former Regent retain their membership and leadership, or will you be changing her decisions in that matter? Continuity of government is important."

Joscelin is overheard praising Silas for: The Crafters Guild is proud to support Silas Mercier.

"I see wisdom in the system the Lady Regent had implemented." Edain says, "I would see it continue."

Sylvie's laugh escapes at 'Continuity of government'. She can't help it. The duchess's fingers quickly cover her lips, too many emotions in her grey eyes.

"If I may, Regent Council." Damon says once Tristram is done.

"House Thrax seconds the mocking laughter of the Duchess of Zaffria, but the point is a valid one." Donrai comments without inflection.

Maximilian raises his hand. "Yeah. I would like to speak."

Tristram *MIGHT* have had some sarcasm in his comment regarding continuity. Just a wee bit.

Belladonna can't help it. She was holding it together, she really was, but at Donrai's comment she too barks off a laugh, her own hand coming up to cover her lips as she turns to lean into Lianne's shoulder.

Maximilian also, stands up. Because he's seen how effective raising your hand can be.


Somhairle rises to his feet after a moment's thought, hands folded behind him, clasped at the small of his back. He wears his usual brooding expression like a mask. "I, too, will speak."

Kieran rises from his seat and quietly heads out of the chamber, deciding whether he remains Master of Revelry can be a surprise for later.

1 Redrain novice guards leaves, following Kieran.

Eleyna just turns her head to look at Belladonna, her disapproval apparent before she looks away. She sinks down on to her seat on the bench again, hands clenched in her lap as she listens.

Darrow doesn't do any speaking, no. Darrow sighs.

Victus is silently brooding and scowling.

Silas is in mid-sit when he notices Alistair. He stands again and approaches the man, leaning in for the presumed whisper.

Costas casts his eyes over to the Lycene section for a moment, distracted, before returning to the terse, conspiratorial discussion transpiring in the common benches.

Belladonna turns a look Eleyna's way, offers an angelic smile for her disapproval. A flutter of her eyelashes, and then she's looking front again.

"Speak openly," Esera says. "And be heard." A pause, before she adds, "Take turns."

Darren narrows a look to Sylvie and Donrai, shaking his head slightly. "The Regent Council will deliberate and make a decision with regards to the continuation of the Ministries and Low Council. I assume there will be a proclamation on the matter, once a decision has been made. But this is not what the Assembly is for. Thank you for your concern, Prince Tristram." He then nods to the rest who have asked to speak. "Please, go ahead and speak your mind one at a time and we will take into consideration what you have to say."

Leo has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Sylvie's lips soften into a smile for Donrai, though she shakes her head in a clear gesture. It wasn't mocking, the gesture says!

Well. Nobody said anything about pirates having good timing, unless it has something to do with arriving -just- when a ship goes aground with valuables aboard, but Salazar Argento - Voice of the Stormborn and Heir-Apparent of the March of Nilanza - comes at the terrible-est time of all, walking in with his fingers gently caressing a bottle of that Nilanzan red that the poet knights sing such praises of, and wearing a broad surcoat of gleaming onyx with etched navy blue motifs beckoning the seas to the shore. The honey-eyed, midnight-haired pirate, poet and lesser prince in his own demesne slips into the Lycene section and glances about, before making his way to Belladonna's side. His liege lady. He murmurs something into her ear, before proffering the bottle. Nilanzan red, Nilanzan red, drink it til' you're good and dead.

Salazar has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Damon moves out from the bench to address the council, "While the decision of the Teind has been settled, another situation surrounding that still presents itself." He starts, "The Teind is a bandage. And like most bandages covering wounds blood is prone to seep through. Dawn's decision to give herself to the Teind not withstanding we still have a serious problem of bringers nipping at our heels. Her sacrifice and the sacrifice of the twelve others aren't going to stop them from continuing to be a problem. So I'd like to propose to the Regent Council a...taskforce, if you will to train soldiers with the means and techniques to fight these monsters. I have some experience personally dealing with them, so with your permission, I would like to select a few others with similar experience to begin working with your great houses to make sure everyone capable is able to protect themselves from this blight."

Tristram says, "We already have one."

Maximilian glances at Damon - awaiting his turn.

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

Muiryn steps away from the Valardin benches without any fanfare as he leaves the Assemby.

Muiryn has left the Valardin Benches.

Valencia has left the Redrain Benches.

Alistair tends to a messenger as well as a Confessor who reports Shreve's proclomation. "The Master of Questions seems to know the future." He remarks as his eyes fall upon the High Lords and then glances to Minister... or possible former Minister... Leo.

Valencia has joined the Lyceum Benches.



    In the Thrax benches there is movement, and a flash of silver; not the gleam of weaponry, but that of pitches and platters. The guards part to permit a pair of thralls within, who go about preparing wine and buttered bread for those remaining while the Assembly moves into further speakers. The youngest princess of Thrax can be seen, semi-surrepticiously, downing one goblet before having it filled thereafter.

Donrai gestures with a hand towards Damon, "Likely we'll all be calling our banners and massacring this threat before too long."

Tristram says, "Marquis Minister Vincere and the Shield of the Compact, under the Ministry of Defense. I'd be glad to speak to you about it, Lord Damon, if you would--and with anyone else who is interested."

Damon nods to Donrai, "Hence my bringing this up, your highness."

Valencia moves from the Redrain benches to take a seat next to her cousin Eleyna. She speaks softly to her.

Maximilian sips his flask - glancing between the speakers.

Silas parts from Alistair to allow him to speak and settles back on the Grayson benches.

"This matter will be determined by the Minister of Defense," Darren says to Damon.

Esera has left the Voices of the Realm.

Alistair gives a slight nod to Silas as they finish speaking the man steping through the many Peers that still remain to whisper quietly to Leo.

Esera has joined the Voices of the Realm.

    "I would like to do my part to ensure those that can, and are willing, all have suitable arms." Julea speaks up, her voice rising just a touch to carry beyond the Redrain benches she's seated at.

"Excellent," Deva smiles, however briefly, over at Julea and the Redrain benches.

Maximilian steps away from his bench, to raise his voice when he sees his opening to speak. "High Lords. Regency Council. I am Maximilian Darkwater, count of Darkwater Reach."

Damon blinks once or twice before offering a slight nod, "Of course. Thank you." Before returning to his seat.

Bianca glanced over toward Julea before making a note in her book and turning attention upward to returning cousin.

"I mean this with no disrespect, but the various ministers and small councilors of the former Regent comprise half the city. So, I figure, maybe I should be on it. I run a large trading company and a county that feeds itself entirely on trade." And plunder. But lets not mention that.

"Logistics is what I do. Moving goods, moving material, stockpiling and harboring, trading and making sure there is a margin for smooth movement." A pause. "So I'd like to put myself forward as Minister or officer of logistics, to handle supplies and procurement. You have a minister of the treasury and coin... and one of defense... but no one managing stockpiles and such or exploring new avenues to obtain them." he removes his hat...

"Never got the chance to pitch it to the Lady Dawn."

With a grunt, Victus gets up to his feet and turns towards the exit.

"Thank you for your suggestion, Count Maximillian. We will take it into consideration," Darren remarks, before lifting his brow. "Is there anybody else who wishes to speak?"

Maximilian shrugs. "A'igh." Says Max. "Thanks for the time." He says, stepping back and fingering his flask.

Edain nods to Somhairle, "You wished to speak as well, Duke Somhairle?"

Esera has left the Voices of the Realm.

Esera has joined the Voices of the Realm.

Margot has left the Thrax Benches.

2 Thrax Guards, Sunrise, lilac breasted roller leave, following Margot.

Belladonna now turns in her seat, leaning on an arm on the back of it and seemlingly settling in to converse with those sitting around her.

Victus has left the Thrax Benches.

In the vicinity of the Lyceum benches, a lone figure stands up and holds aloft a bottle of wine, glancing around the seats and offering it. The grumbled murmurings of the Lycene table have prompted the bloody libertines to pass around wine to deal with the whole affair. Noted, of course, is that the lone figure is Salazar Argento.

Larissa has left the Commoner Benches.

Alistair steps back from Leo after their brief and rather simple discussion ends, the man glancing about and for hopefully the final time departs from the Assembly.


"I have thought better of it," Duke Somhairle responds, nodding his head politely toward Edain. "Enough has been said today."

"All right." Darren takes in a breath, and rises from the table, sighing it back out. He turns to those gathered once more, projecting his voice across the Assembly. "As there are no further voices that wish to speak, the High Lords call the Assembly to a close."

Standing once more, Monique Greenmarch lifts hand (and voice). "I have a last question to put to the Regent Council. Or perhaps part suggestion and part question."

Lydia has left the Redrain Benches.

Samantha rises from the Grayson bench, apparently intent on departing from the Assembly. She was a Marquessa when she walked in, and for good or ill, she's a Marquessa walking out.

Ainsley unfolds himself from the grayson benches, though he doesn't seem to want the floor. No, it looks like he's moving to depart. Indeed, he falls into line behind Samantha and follows her out.

Jaenelle does not wait till Monique speaks, she leaves.

Larissa has joined the Commoner Benches.

Donrai gestures towards Monique, "House Thrax recognizes the Lady that spent years embarrassing the Oathlands and evading capture."

Jaenelle has left the Lyceum Benches.

As the assembly moves from matters of realm-wide import to personal grandstanding, Costas finishes one last round of rabble-rousing among the commoners before slipping out.

Samantha has left the Grayson Benches.

Ainsley has left the Grayson Benches.

Ainsley leaves, following Samantha.

Costas has left the Commoner Benches.

Larissa has left the Commoner Benches.

Joscelin looks to Monique, and listens.

"Speak," Darren encourages Monique.

Edain nods to Monique encouraging her to speak. Hazel eyes dart briefly to Donrai. His expression says it all, 'Fuck that was good. I have no comeback for that!'

Audric has left the Commoner Benches.

Somhairle has left the Redrain Benches.

Deva looks to the Redrain benches, searching faces with a thoughtful expression.

Beaming a grin at Donrai for recognizing her former outlaw status, Monique steps forward from the benches to bring up her final thoughts. "I understand the Council is choosing to stand by their decision made earlier regarding the Teind, and while I disagree with that, we have to abide by it. But what of future generations? From at least /some/ accounts, what is happening now isn't so different from what happened a thousand years ago, with the Reckoning. Before this happens /again/, would it not be wise to investigate the matter of the Nox'alfar and the Teind further? To prove it veracity or show it for fallacy, whichever way it may fall. And what of King Alaric? Through all this, not once has anyone again mentioned a point brought up earlier. That the Nox'alfar are the same creatures that cursed him to his sleep. Are we content to simply let him linger in the curse or will we be questioning the Nox'alfar on how to lift it?" She motions towards Donrai, "As was mentioned, I spent years of my life, prior to being ennobled, as an outlaw. A spy and a thief. From those years I've learned to never trust that what works once will continue to work. We owe it to ourselves and our children and so forth to continue looking into the elves and their magics and demons."

Gabriel moves to rise from the Grayson Benches, departing with the same stoic expression he wore entering. If anything worsened.

Gabriel has left the Grayson Benches.

Shadow The Kitten, Cailin The Guard, 2 Grimhall Guards arrive, following Cordelia.

Belladonna finally moves to rise, offering playful words to those seated in the area reserved for the Lyceum. The little Duchess squeezes Salazar's shoulder, offers her arm to Lianne. She does look towards Monique at her words, paying a marginal amount of attention, but her gaze doesn't linger when the woman finishes, going right back to the various nobility nearby.

"The Lady Dawn intimated to the council that the Nox'alfar will be here within the month," Darren replies to Monique. "The High Council will speak with the Nox'alfar envoy and get our questiosn answered. Insofar as this matter stands, we have only agreed to pay the teind -this time-." He pauses, "And I am sure the council agrees with me that we will do everything to ensure King Alaric wakens once more."

"If they leave it up to me, I'll end the Nox'Alfar at my earliest convenience," Esera says. "Perhaps fortunate for the Nox'Alfar, it is not entirely up to me." She rises, preparing to go shortly.

Continues to watch the meeting, and as Monique starts to speak, he quickly drifts his eyes away. Back to those gathered. Back to the High Lords. He watches Darren for a moment, then sees Deva searching for faces. He stares at the Redrain Voice until she catches his eyes. He big knight offers a small inclination of his head. Approval, support, as much as can come from a small nod.

Calypso has left the Lyceum Benches.

Deva is overheard praising Esera for: Damn right.

Shadow The Kitten, Cailin The Guard, 2 Grimhall Guards leave, following Cordelia.

Eleyna is overheard praising Esera for: I stand with you.

A slew of Lyceum nobles - notably House Pravus and House Malvici - have stood up to leave the Assembly. But the old adage is true: where Lycenes are is where the party is. And they're obviously headed for the party.

Darren is overheard praising Esera for: Well, I can agree with you on that one.

Eleyna is overheard praising Esera for: I stand with you.

"It is as the Greenmarcher says." Donrai agrees with his dead voice, "We'll have our answers, and if we can avoid enraging the population of the Compact by embracing blood rites, then it may be wise to do so."

Lianne rises as Belladonna does without hesitation, accepting the offered arm as if she were a gentleman escorting the lovely duchess away from the endless entropy. She offers a smile to Salazar before casting one last considering look over the crowd.

Valencia presses her lips together and squeezes her cousin's hands. "It will be fine. "

Lianne has left the Lyceum Benches.

Salazar is overheard praising Esera for: The Archduchess speaks true.

Bianca rose from her place, tucking notebook back to its hiding spot beneath the plated wing decorating her belt before her coat was pulled back on. A gracious nod was tipped to the others of the Valardin camp seated on the benches before her coat was tugged on and the Lady Wyrmguard proceeded on her way out.

Eleyna looks at Valencia, murmuring, "I should have known."

Leo rises from his place at the Lyceum benches, casting a look toward those at the High Council table before making his way from the Assembly.

Leo has left the Lyceum Benches.

Bianca has left the Valardin Benches.

"Did she not also intimate that the Nox'alfar only recognize /her/ as standing for the entire Compact? Something to the effect of 'in the eyes of the Nox'alfar she /IS/ the Compact'? Will they accept any other envoy?" Monique doesn't seem quite settled by that answer. Still questioning. Inquisitive little git.

"With that said, I believe we can actually honestly call the Assembly to a close," Darren announces to the rest of them, nodding to each of the High Lords. "Thank you all for your questions and concerns."

Even as others move to rise and leave, the Duchess Sylvie Zaffria lingers and waits. She twists the wedding ring on her hand, black diamond flashing in the light of the Assembly, as she watches those of the High Council carefully.

Orazio sighs, and rises to his feet. He looks to the others at the godsworn benches, and says something quietly.

Valencia hugs Eleyna fiercely. "We all should have," she murmurs. "But we know now... and we will make this right. I swear it."

Belladonna takes Lianne's arm, grinning and just patting Salazar's offer without taking it. "My cousin is escorting me," she tells him, and then it's apparently time to go. Belladonna is going, at least.

Damon rises from his seat and makes for the door.

Damon has left the Valardin Benches.

"The Nox'alfar will recognize the Compact as it is. Five Great Houses, standing together as one," Darren says to Monique, "No single person is the Compact. And the Nox'alfar will be reminded of that."

    Julea pushes slowly up to a stand, collecting her tricorn hat, she dons it once more on her head, though she doesn't yet depart, instead looking to Monique as she talks, and then Darren.

Belladonna has left the Lyceum Benches.

Salazar has left the Lyceum Benches.

Pietro has left the Lyceum Benches.

Lianne, Salazar, Pietro leave, following Belladonna.

Aldwin has left the Godsworn Benches.

Orazio has left the Godsworn Benches.


    Denica leans toward one of the nearby thralls, and she murmurs something to them before shifting uncomfortably in her seat and nodding, absently, at the close of the Assembly.

Dafne has left the Lyceum Benches.

2 Faith of the Pantheon novice guards, Scholar Neve leave, following Aldwin.

Donrai nods in agreement with Darren, "Thank you all for coming, and if you don't all die to the Nox'alfar, traitors in our midst, Bringers or what have you before the next meeting, then we shall see you next meeting."

That said, Agnarr hauls himself to his feet.