3 Thrax Guards arrives, following Fatima.

Violet has joined the Valardin Benches.

Mikani has joined the Thrax Benches.

Renault, the fluffiest Velenosan cat arrives, following Selene.

Timbo, agile and cheeky rivenshari youth have been dismissed.

Fatima has joined the Thrax Benches.

Shard has joined the Commoner Benches.

Renault, the fluffiest Velenosan cat have been dismissed.

Thorley has joined the Valardin Benches.

Brady has joined the Commoner Benches.

2 Rivenshari Clansman have been dismissed.

Selene has joined the Commoner Benches.

Arriving just a touch late but within bounds of fashionably so, Lady Elsa Shepherd arrives in style, wrapped in a scintillating umbra from head to foot, including a wonderfully translucent cloak as she heads her way towards the Grayson benches to settle in.

Elsa has joined the Grayson Benches.

Relic arrives, following Harlan.

Violet is dressed in plain linen and her face is an unreadable mask as she walks in with Thorley. Without a word she makes her way to the Valardin seats following after her husband.

Harlan enters from outside with a slight 'clack-clack-clack' of his c ane on the ground. He looks about before moving to take a seat.

Harlan has joined the Grayson Benches.

1 Crimson Blades Sergeant, 1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant, 1 Crimson Blades Private arrive, following Cillian.

The Cardian delegation arrives, with a half dozen soldiers dressed in steelsilk trailing behind an imposing figure that must be the self-proclaimed Praetor of Arvum, Lord Marcus Sulla. At the door, they all pause with military precision at an upraised pair of fingers from the Praetor, who receives a low word from the door guard with a gesture towards his greatsword. There's a tense moment then the cardian shrugs, and they all take peacebonds to tie knots around their weapons then proceed, apparently uninformed of local customs. Slightly bemused, the cardians continue their walk into the chamber and stop to all give a fist-to-chest salute towards the Voices of the Realm table, speaking in a voice that is all but certain to never have been intended for diplomacy of any form, "I am informed that the leaders of this village are among the wisest of the province of Arvum, and I must thank you for the opportunity to speak." With a nod towards Alaric, Lord Marcus Sulla gestures towards his retinue to take their places standing along the walls, "When given leave, I will present the proposal from the Black Spire of Cardia, and I trust you will find it compelling."

Veronica's in her position as Sword of Keaton-- an arm's length behind Kael, moving with a weight-forward stride and a hard set to her lean jaw. She wears finely made armor, loose and light as befits a duelist over heavy cavalry wear. Her own weapons and the heavy longsword on her back are peacebonded, and Veronica follows close in the wake Reigna and Kael leave behind. With a herding dog's protective instincts she sits behind the Marquis and Marquessa, keeping an eye on everyone else in the room. This at least puts her close to Demura and Amari, and she leans forward once she's satisfied to exchange murmured greetings with the two other women.

Selene glides in with a certain easy manner about her, but a Whisper ought to be comfortable in this particular venue. So she does on her way to the commoner benches, holding her flowing skirt slightly high to allow unimpeded motion.

Cillian has joined the Redrain Benches.

Perronne has joined the Commoner Benches.

Kozu arrives, following Zulana.

Victusppl Zi;ama

Lisebet has joined the Valardin Benches.

Elsa has left the Grayson Benches.

Willow has joined the Redrain Benches.

The very strange Eurusi Emissary, the Eye of the Prophet, shuffles into the Assembly of Peers. Looking much like an Eurusi version of a mirrormask with flowing fireweave robes, the figure bows to the door guard and then shuffles with a shambling gait down towards the Voice of the Realms. The voice behind the mirrormask is oddly accented, and strangely echoing, "It is this one's distinction to be named Eye of the Prophet. We observe." It then falls completely silent and stock still, its billowing robes falling still as if a breeze had suddenly died.

Orvyn has joined the Valardin Benches.

Lore has joined the Commoner Benches.

Mikani sits up and raises an eyebrow.'

The representatives of the Undying Empire make their way into the Assembly; Zulana and Kozu at the head of a small honor guard. The duo, clad in platinum-chased armor, approach the front of the Assembly, where Zulana offers a respectful bow to the peers of the realm. "The Undying Empire thanks the leadership of Arx -- and the Compact -- for their gracious hospitality in this time of Arvum's loss. When given leave to speak, we will offer His proposal to you all; I trust that you will see the wisdom in it."

Veronica has joined the Valardin Benches.

Inquisitor Jonathen, 6 Veteran Confessors, Salvadore, a fire salamander arrive, following Laric.

Warrior, a skittish pygmy goat kid arrives, following Felicia.

Warrior, a skittish pygmy goat kid have been dismissed.

Felicia has joined the Commoner Benches.

Senna, a whip of a man have been dismissed.

Kanean puts Steel Top in Leather Bag.

Kanean puts Steel Helmet in Leather Bag.

Kanean puts = Steel Arms in Leather Bag.

Lou is seated among the Grayson benches, mostly keeping quiet. However, when the representatives come in, she can't help but look at them and stare, curiosity touching her eyes.

Kanean puts Steel Gauntlets in Leather Bag.

Kanean puts Steel Boots in Leather Bag.

Kanean puts = Steel Bottom in Leather Bag.

Positioned next to Zulana, Kozu allows his sister to do the talking as he is rather more focused on taking in the whole of the Assembly Hall and those within it, sharp eyes assessing for threats. His every movement speaks of precision and economy. There are no wasted gestures to be found here, as if every step the man takes is meticulously planned. He offers a bow to the gathered peers of the realm in echo of Zulana's, head bowed in respect before he straightens once more.

Acantha looks to the Cardian delegation as they arrive, watching how they act at the door and the way they proceed inside. The Eurusi Emissary is looked at, but the strange talking makes her wonder. She also watches the envoys from the Undying Empire with a curiousness. Though there's no move to go get closer or anything. She remains in her spot at the Redrain bench.

Kanean has left the Commoner Benches.

The High Inquisitor of the Crown's Inquisitorial Order and recent person of infamy considering his seem distain for conspiratorial scholars... lingers in the back as he always does. His sharp eyes upon the foreigners who have been invited to the Assembly of Peers. At his feat is a rather large and oh so cuddly creature... who seems as entirely dour and annoyed as his master. Neither make any commentary. Just stare.

Shard is sitting on the very edge, at the very end, of one of the commoner benches, and she barely blinks as she studies each delegation in turn, as well as the strange Eurusi watcher.

Sparte stiffens in his position as he takes in the three delegations. He stands up a smidge straighter, his eye not already a healing bruise squinting to match as he watches the foreigners with very evidence distrust.

Marcus looks at the newly arriving emissaries from the Undying Empire with undisguised contempt, but says nothing.

5 Sanna House Guards, Petroc, the most unassuming man you have ever met arrive, following Cirroch.

Lamora arrives, following Auda.

Kanean has joined the Voices of the Realm.

Kanean has left the Voices of the Realm.

Kanean has joined the Redrain Benches.

Kanean has left the Redrain Benches.

Kanean has joined the Commoner Benches.

Cirroch has joined the Redrain Benches.

Marian quietly assesses the delegates from the different foreign factions as they arrive. There is an alertness stillness to the warchief as she quietly observes the arrivals, the greetings. Every movement, every word is cataloged without great response from the warrior princess.

Auda has joined the Commoner Benches.

Zulana doesn't bother to even glance in the direction of the Cardian delegation. Her lack of acknowledgment is, while silent, somehow very pointed.

5 Sanna House Guards have been dismissed.

Alaric smiles regally to the various foreign contingents as they all make their respective introductions. "It is an unprecedented delight to host such distinguished guests here tonight. Do be seated, we will begin momentarily." They have little sections cordoned off to sit in (with some separation between them, at that). He stands and regards the hall from the center front of the room, raising a hand for quiet and then speaking in a clear and confident voice. "My subjects, it pleases me to see you all gathered here today. Our year of rebuilding continues apace, with many new labors and creations gracing Arvum. As we all continue to grow and strengthen our domains, I encourage the Peerage to remember that the potential of our works is far greater when the Houses cooperate. With that, I call this Assembly of Peers to order. Please rise for the convocation of the Faith of the Pantheon."

Gregory, an unassuming disciple, 2 Templar Knight guards, Binky, an asshole crow arrive, following Aureth.

Karadoc has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Aureth has joined the Godsworn Benches.

Calypso's stern expression doesn't shift as she rises at the bench and looks to Alaric. Left hand on her hilt, she awaits the convocation in silence.

Selene has left the Commoner Benches.

Lou is seen among those rising with the Grayson fealty for the convocation. She still gives the foreigners curious glances, perhaps more so for the Eurusi, Falak, than anyone else.

Orazio stands up, solemn and severe as he surveys the room. The staff of the Dominus in his hand, he looks at those gathered and particularly at the emissaries as he offers the convocation.

"As we gather tonight, we ask the Gods of the Pantheon to bless our Assembly. And while we honor them all, particularly this evening we pray to the Queen of Endings, to care for a soul so deeply loved who has - even as we have lost her - brought us together. To Limerance, that any oaths made this evening be held truly. We pray to Sentinel, to judge those who speak falsely. And especially we ask Gild's blessings as we extend guest rights to our visitors who have come from remote lands to treat with us tonight. May we come together in peace and speak as potential allies - or if not allies, certainly not enemies."

With the prayer concluded, Orazio bows to the King politely and then sits back down.

Miranda stands at her bench, quiet and patient-looking.

Willow rises to her feet when bid, dwarfed by most of the other people gathered.

Scribble, a Delicate Social Butterfly arrives, following Delilah.

Lianne, so instructed, rises for the convocation, the barest hint of a grin playing upon her lips at something overheard among the gathered Lycene. When the prayer concludes, she bows her head in reverence and resettles.

Delilah has joined the Grayson Benches.

Lucita rises with everyone else as the opening convocaton is given and retakes her seat once it is finished.

Gwenna's fingers are laced together and resting on the top of the table. She regards each of the visiting delegates with politely, not letting it linger longer than might suggest proper acknowledgment. The King's words warm her expression again as she stands for the convocation. Eyes closed, she reopens them upon the conclusion of the Dominus' words.

Waldemai rises for the invocation.

Mikani stands when bid and holds her hands in front of her.

Victus stands when the Convocation is called. He straightens his coat and ensures his twin brooches are appropriately spaced. Looking as uptight and stiff as ever. He raises his chin and closes his eyes as the prayer progresses, then sits right back down as soon as it ends.

Acantha rises for the convocation, her hand on the hilt of the peacebound Dawnflame at her hip.

Laric, having arrived late, waits for Orazio's convocation to conclude before making his way to the Crownlands' benches. He takes a circuitous route as he goes, seeming to study the three delegations in turn before he arrives to his destination and takes a seat.

Violet's head turns slowly and she stares at the Eurusi emissary with slightly narrowed eyes. Then she turns and looks at Alistair. All this done while she was standing for Orazio's words.

Once seating is indicated for them, Kuzo gives the indicated area a thorough looking over and, finding it at least adequate, gives Zulana a nod and offers his arm to guide her in that direction. As the convocation is given, Kuzo bows his head in respect.

Lisebet stands with the rest of the crowd for the prayer, and setttles back in her seat once it's done.

Marian unfurls her body to stand proudly, her eyes moving to the Voices of the Realm as Orazio gives a short convocation and then retakes her seat once it's been done. There's a quiet alertness as her eyes also scan the crowd, the delegates and settles back into her seat without any great fuss once it's done.

Felicia is among the Crownsworn that rise for the convocation, giving it a firm nod of approval at the end for all that her attention seems settled mostly on the visitors, and silently resuming her seat with the rest of the masses when it is over.

Ian sets his bottle of rum on the bench so he can fold both hands over the head of his cane and push to his feet. His intense eyes stay on Orazio while the dominus speaks, but his thoughts, if there are any, are lost in his serene visage.

Alistair flares his nostrils slightly as his eyes shift and lock upon the Eurusi Emissary.

Josephine rises, cane being leaned upon to support her in the process.

Sorrel rises for the convocation, and uses the time to get a better vantage on the visitors. But it's a nice prayer, and she's quite reverant for it.

Domonico stands alongside Calypso and resumes his seat, maintaining a stern look.

Ysbail stands and settles. Looking a little green around the gills.

There's little surprising that the Legate of the Lost finds much to approve of in a convocation that honors the Queen of Endings, but Aureth seems especially energized and firm about this as he tips his smile across the room towards Orazio before resuming his seat in a shiver of weighted glitter that comes of all that finery.

Edain keeps his head bowed during the convocation and utters a personally prayer very softly after it's conclusion and retakes his seat.

Ouida rises with the crowd for the convocation, her hands clasped lightly. Her posture is more of military "at ease" than ladylike, though her skirts are full so it's hard to tell. And she settles back into her seat with the rest, little to distinguish her.

Rinel also has a cane! And she also uses it to stand for the invocation. She's standing. Not happily. She looks more wary of Aureth and Orazio than anyone else.

Eshra stands, the sound of her bells lost in the din for the room. Watching the prayers in silence until such time as she can again take her seat.

Calypso returns to her seat and keeps her eyes forward, going quiet.

Cambria rises along with the others for the convocation, resuming her seat only when it is appropriate to do so.

Rowynna rises with those assembled for the convocation, before sitting down again, eyes glancing about the room.

Arik is overheard praising Acantha: Learns quickly an Assembly of Peers requires snacks.

Kael rises for the convocation, his head bowing and his hands folding together. There is the slightest tilt of his head to the side, as though of the believe that he could hear extra well in such a manner. One finished, he settles back into his corner perch.

Mia rises with the rest of the Peerage, keeping her head bowed as and where is appropriate, and only returning to her seat once the Assembly is opened.

Lailah rises for the convocation.

Pasquale rises respectfully for the prayer, some of the wry crook falling away from his pale face to something approaching reverence.

Vercyn rises for the convocation, keeping his arms lowered. He takes his seat once it has finished

Rising to his feet with the convocation, Thorley's head is bowed in prayer as he listens to prayer. That is until he hears the part about Copper. And without a word, the knight removes a simple copper broach that was attached to his cloak and holds it high in the air, a twist of the metal with a soft gleam in the room's light.

Demura rises to the convocation, her movements coming naturally and fast as they're well rehearsed.

The Eye of the Prophet stares creepily at Thorley and then slowly claps three times before stopping, seemingly for no reason.

"Be seated," Alaric declares as he remains standing. "Before we begin tonight's agenda, I have some words on recent reports the Crown has received of news around Arvum. We have an honorable tradition of strong and self-reliant holds in the Compact, tied together through the honorable bonds of liege and vassal. Arvum is full of strong leaders, and certainly we do not expect them to always agree upon everything. When there are disagreements, however, the Houses of the Compact -are- expected to conduct their disagreements honorably, like civilized Arvians. Should any House act in a matter directly contravening the doctrinal principles of the Faith in regards to guest rights, honorable warfare, and the other Pantheonic principles, this body may exercise its right to invoke the articles of expulsion from the Compact. I trust in the wisdom of the Peerage that this will not be necessary." He smiles and takes his seat as well. "On to business, then. Do the Voices of the Realm have any business to bring before the Assembly today?"

Delilah rises in time to the convocation being called, expression a blithe mask. She is all but half-hidden behind Mia, chin tipped downward. As the words end, she descends into her seat, perched as far forward as she might possibly be.

Merek has come to listen to the Assembly, and has on his cloak in crimson and black tones with hood up. He has found a place to settle in and notices that people are standing and settling, and so he does that as well.

Lore gets Mistral Golden Rum - Bottled 1000 from Large Oiled Leather Rucksack.

Edain raises his voice and says, "House Valardin has no issues to bring before the Assembly today."

"His Grace, Prince Darren, did not note any items for the agenda from House Redrain," Gwenna remarks after a quick shake of her head.

Mia turns to murmur a few words of greeting to Lady Delilah, shifting in her seat so as to best accommodate the other woman's particular posture at the moment. Her eye linger a touch on the foreign delegations, even while speaking to her fellow Crownlander.

Ian gets Special Reserve Darkwater Rum from Aged Satchel.

Jaenelle settle back into her seat at the head table after Orazio has finished the prayer, her movement unhurried as she allows her expression to remain calm even while her eyes scan the room. Upon the question, she turns towards Alaric and meets his smile with one of her own, "House Velenosa has no pressing requests that must be seen to tonight."

Kuzo glances toward the commoner benches and then leans in to murmur something to Zulana before refocusing his attention to the Peers of the Realm. He also gives Falak a Look. A very long look.

Zulana glances back at the commoner benches as well, then shakes her head. She murmurs something back to Kozu, though she clearly looks displeased by /something/.

Merek has joined the Commoner Benches.

1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant arrives, following Eilonwy.

"The Mourning Isles has not been spared the political controversy of late. We wish to state publicly that there has been no evidence that House Warwynd has besmirched the sacred institution of guest rite." Victus states clear and authoritatively. "Likewise, express our condolences to House Crackneck." With that, the Prince falls silent again. "Thrax has no pressing matters to bring to the Assembly."

Eilonwy has joined the Redrain Benches.

"House Grayson has no business to bring before the Assembly at this moment," Sabella days after everyone else has spoken, giving Alaric a smile.

2 House Velenosa Guards, Dreya, an older woman in Velenosan livery, Ailfryd, a tall, thin man with a haugty air arrive, following Saoirse.

Saoirse has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Helena's fingers toy with the copper brooch she wears pinned at the shoulder, and she shifts a little to look at the commoner benches, then back to the foreigners who seem to be looking that way. Her brows knit together and she looks back to the Voices as they each speak on behalf of their respective houses. She leans slightly against her sister Elgana beside her, and then tips her head to murmur something in her ear.

Saoirse slides into the Lyceum benches in QUITE the new outfit. Is she here solely to send the Valardin's hands a'flutterin' to their chests? MAYBE! She leans forward to whisper to someone in her bench and otherwise grows quiet.

"Very well, then. The Crown has a few announcements to make. First, we are pleased to announce that one of Arvum's greatest and most honored traditions, the Tournament of Roses will be held once again this year after the unfortunate postponement necessitated by the Pirate War. As such, there will be an opening for the tournament director position; interested parties should send word to the Palace," Alaric declares. "The Crown also wishes to extend its condolences to the Lyceum as its vassal House Velenosa on the tragic and untimely passing of Prince Ettore Mydas Velenosa, and formally offer its support in this difficult period." He regards his page of notes after a pause. "The Crown reminds the population that the beaches of Arx are no longer a public docking facility for ships and vessels of any type; the docks of Arx are quite robust and fines will be levied henceforth for any ship that does not properly register with the port authorities." He glances up to the benches. "I am informed that the Commoners' Council has no agenda items to submit tonight, so we will skip them. Are there items of business the Peerage wishes to bring before the Crown?"

Laric has joined the Grayson Benches.

Saoirse has joined the line.

As the bureaucratic preambles to the Assembly drag on, Zulana does her best to look patient. She even nearly succeeds.

"The Assembly recognizes Princess Saoirse Velenosa," Alaric declares.

"Is discussion of the foreign offers scheduled to take place?" asks Saoirse Velenosa from the Lyceum benches. "If not, I know I have been approached numerous times by our common folk asking for guidance and to assuage their fears."

Autumn has joined the Commoner Benches.

Cadern has joined the Redrain Benches.

The Cardian Emissary briefly reaches up to massage his temple with a hand, his eyes looking unmistakably irritated, though he says nothing.

"I am sure all bona fide offers presented to the Compact of Arvum will be given their due consideration. Are there any other concerns?" Alaric inquires.

Kozu's expression remains bland, but his brows lift slightly in response to the question asked. He turns his head slightly to look at Zulana, silently, before turning his attention forward once more.

Falak creepily raises a covered hand and waves at Saoirse. A bit of black sand falls out of its robe as it does so.

Cadern has left the Redrain Benches.

Cadern has joined the Redrain Benches.

Zulana is clearly mildly irritated. Worse still, the emissary of the Undying Empire then catches a glance of the Cardian emissary /also/ looking irritated, and looks momentarily disgusted that they're apparently /sharing an emotion/.

Jasher has joined the Thrax Benches.

Domonico glances over to Jasher at the Thrax benches and catches his eye, giving a nod.

Samantha narrows her eyes at Falak, or more pointedly, his robes. The inverse of Skald? She does not like that at all.

Valenzo has joined the Commoner Benches.

The Eye of the Prophet, seemingly for no reason, points towards Bliss and then nods its head in agreement before lowering its arm.

"Moving on, then. The Crown reminds the residents of Arx that access to the Sovereign Bridge will be limited due to the annual repainting work starting next week, so factor in delays when making trips to the Ward of the Crown." Alaric shifts to the next page of his notes. "In response to the initiative from the last meeting, the Royal Menagerie reports it will not be rescinding the ban of pet cats in the aviary." He looks back up and regards the room with a charming smile. "We also have some unique guests among us today who have come from quite a long way to be part of today's Assembly. The Crown now gives leave to representative Lord Marcus Sulla from the Black Spire of Cardia to address the Peerage."

Jasher arrives. He's not "making an inscrutable statement". He's not "fashionably late"--or even fashionable for that matter, what with the severe black outfit and the well-worn sword peacebound at his side. He's just..."late". With only the barest glance towards the people, he stalks over towards the seats assigned for those of Thrax, finding a spot with a satisfactory compromise between visibility and discretion, where he can take in the participants and atmosphere more thoroughly.

Darren has joined the Voices of the Realm.

Gwenna glances to Jaenelle with a look of some sort and then notices her cousin arrive, a flicker of relief on her features. Standing, she smiles warmly at him. "Your Grace," is offered. To the others she gives another polite nod and then stands to make her way to the benches of her fealty.

Gwenna has left the Voices of the Realm.


**********************************************************************
At the Assembly of Peers, the representative of the Skykingdom of Cardia is chosen to present their case for an alliance with the Compact. "Cardia is the very heart of the world, and as that heart beats, all under its banner prosper. Not a single invader ever reached our shores during your 'Reckoning', and that is precisely the sort of protection you would be afforded by becoming one of our provinces." The cardian warlord gestures with a hand wide towards all in the Assembly, "Your province is constantly beset by foes, under conflict and internal quarrels. You need not some arrogant and insane so-called Emperor to solve this. You needn't give up freedoms, nor bow to a distant madman. One unified code of law, Cardian law, could settle it all, with our governance setting a fractured land to rights."

Lord Marcus Sulla regards the contingent from the Undying Empire with undisguised contempt, "They would remove your rights, and have you become mere children cowering in an Emperor's shadow. They would shackle your strongest in chains of words. Cardia offers you something greater." The warlord gestures with a hand towards the chamber, "We would bring you the wealth to prepare your realm for what's coming, in steelsilk armor and suitable arms. We would bring you the Art, so you might be trained, and fight as you did in times of old. We would train you. We would give you the might to defend yourselves, while underneath our banners, and no future 'Reckoning' would threaten you."

The foreign warlord turns his attention back to the Voices of the Realm, "All you need do is bend the knee, and become one of our provinces, and you would rise as a mighty province of the Skykingdom, and we would see about your leaders being seated in our senate." A pause, "Refuse us, of course, at your peril. If you accept the Undying Emperor, you would be marked as our enemy. If your province stands alone and falls to darkness that threatens the world, we would have no choice but to invade to restore order, and none of the benefits would be extended to you."
**********************************************************************


Gwenna has joined the Redrain Benches.

Dafne has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Darren offers a warm smile to Gwenna and a quiet word before he takes his seat, and just in time, it seems!

Marcus falls silent after saying his peace, and gives a curt bow towards Alaric.

In the near-silence after this pronouncement from Marcus Sulla, a plain-looking man on the commmoner benches grips the small horn in his lap so hard that the metal dents with a small groan of protest.

"Thank you" Jaenelle tells Alaric softly, dipping her head in regard to the words of condolence that were spoken of along with any other matters that needed to be attended to. She looks appropriately invested in each and every matter brought up, she might even be writing things down as Alaric speaks. Docks, bridges, all important matters. And then she looks up with mild curiosity as the floor opens and the first visitor begins to speak.

Niklas glances around the room, just in case someone jumps up and bends the knee for the Cardian lord. Wouldn't want to miss something like that! But then he looks back to the others at his seating and speaks quietly to his fellow Graysonians.

When the Eye points at her, Bliss goes from the kind of dry face she makes after an impudent comment to one that is, well, rather flustered. She blinks, clears her throat, shifts a bit, then just nods back.

Octavia makes a 'pfft' noise, loud enough that it's easily heard in the silence after Marcus's address, at the Praetor's insistence that Cardian law could solve all of Arvum's problems. Fhe city's chief magistrate is not convinced.

Thorley has left the Valardin Benches.

Josephine has left the Commoner Benches.

Josephine slips out, a grimace on her face and wincing.

Demetria Arcuri leaves, following Josephine.

Zulana gives Marcus a look that suggests she doesn't think too highly of 'Cardian Law'. But she remains silently at Kozu's side, waiting her turn.

Ouida studies the Cardian praetor as he speaks, her head tilted ever so slightly and her posture remaining serene and quiet.

"Well, it's been quite a while since anyone asked the entire Compact to become a vassal. Thank you, Lord Marcus," Alaric declares regally. "The Crown now gives leave to representative Emissary Zulana of the Undying Empire to address the Peerage."

Reese checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Acantha checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 42 higher.

Kenna has left the Grayson Benches.

Princess Sally Acorn, an acorn toting red squirrel have been dismissed.


**********************************************************************
The two Children of the Emperor stand before the Assembly of Peers, dressed in their gleaming platinum-gilded armor. The elder, Kozu, stands with his hands clasped behind his back, nonetheless giving the impression of being on-guard; it is his 'sister' Zulana who steps forward to address the peers of the realm. She bows first to those at the table... and then towards the commoner benches, of all things.

"Long ago, the Emperor entrusted your land to the Great Unbound, the one who he loved as a daughter, and journeyed to build a new beacon of hope in Jadairal. But now the Great Unbound is lost to us all, and though the world grieves, it becomes clear the Great Experiment is at an end."

"In the time since we arrived," Zulana continues, "We have heard of your Faith quarreling with itself over rooting out conspiracies, claiming that one hand does not know what the other is doing. We have heard of those among your leaders consorting with mages of the Abyss. It seems as though while you struggle to walk a path of light, your will sometimes falters."

Now the emissary pauses, turning to glance at the audience for a moment, as though weighing those assembled there. Then her gaze turns back to the peers, the High Lords and their representatives. "And there are greater threats on the horizon!" she proclaims. "Many things long sealed away are stirring, and if they are not defeated or bound, you put the whole world in danger. Without your lost protector, how can hedge-mages and mortal warriors hope to stand against such foes?"

Zulana shakes her head, almost sadly. "I have no doubt that many among you have brave hearts, and would stand against such darkness. And if you do so alone, you will falter -- and fall. And there are always those who seek personal gain, and will sign themselves away to the Abyss; they will work against you from within."

"Out of respect for the one He so loved, our Emperor grants Arvum the right to come to the Empire, rather than simply being added to its Radiant Expanse. As part of the Undying Empire, those among you who display a gift for the Art will be brought to Jadairal for training and bound against service to the Abyss. We, the Emperor's Children, will help to defend your land -- to oppose the threats you face. Together, you can build a shining future, one where no one need fear being forced into Abyssal service."

She pauses here, glancing over to the commoner benches -- her eyes scan the audience until she spots Shard there; the emissary looks somewhat displeased that the sellsword is seated among the commoners, but she offers a respectful bow towards the woman nonetheless. "You will be exempt from such bindings, of course, Your Majesty; the old treaties remain in effect."

Then she turns back to the table of the Compact leadership. "Within the Undying Empire, you will find a life of peace. Our laws are fair, and the Emperor provides for his citizens. The Arts we know will be used to the benefit of Arvum -- to /your/ benefit. We will hold back the darkness, and give you a chance to build a new world in the light."

"If you choose to align with the Black Spire, however, you will be aligning with those who declare themselves above even the gods. Those who would see many of you chained and sold, forced to fight for their own amusement." Her eyes narrow for a moment. "You would be declaring yourself an enemy to the Empire."

Then the emissary's expression turns dark. "And should you decline all aid, you will almost assuredly fall. And when that darkness rises, when your Compact begins to shatter under the weight of the threats... then we will be forced to come and quell the darkness. For the good of the rest of the world."

Spreading her hands, Zulana concludes, "We ask only that you consider what is best -- for yourself, and for the world. And when you do, you will see that His offer is truly the right path forward."
**********************************************************************


Aureth sets his fingers against each other before the purse of his lips, watching Zulana with eyes that glitter cool and hard. But he maintains his silence as she speaks, and though his gaze lingers when she is finished speaking, it is entirely unclear what he intends to read from her.

Once she finishes speaking, Zulana adds a last bow towards those she addressed, and then returns to Kozu's side.

Shard stares blankly. She staaares. And stares. She even seems to have forgotten to be tense. And then she says something, but it's low enough that only those near her likely hear it.

Merek checked willpower at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Gigi, an apprentice physician's assistant, Marie, chef of Keaton Hall, 4 Novice Keaton Huntsmen arrive, following Reigna.

Felicia stirs at the Commoner Benches and looks in the direction of Shard, the sudden bark of amusement she gives is choked off as soon as it starts for all the volume of the first noise, or the crimson color it makes her turn when she chokes it off.

Reigna has joined the Valardin Benches.

Samantha has left the Grayson Benches.

5 House Deepwood Guards have been dismissed.

Khanne is munching on some sort of snack with a resting-bitch-face expression on her visage.. she is sitting next to her brother after all. When Zulana looks to the Commoner seating and calls someone 'your Majesty', Khanne turns to see who that is, eyes opening wide as Zulana seems to be looking upon Shard.

Lore lets out a peal of laughter from over at the commoners benches, loud and rich and long.

Ian looks over at Shard when she's addressed as 'Your Majesty'. Just for a moment, but there might have been sympathy in the wry twist of his mouth.

2 House Velenosa Guards, Renault, the mustachioed Lycene arrive, following Theo.

Violet glances at Shard and then her gaze returns to Zulana. She looks slightly thoughtful, but that is all.

Theo has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Marian has given no response to either of the proposals given, her steady polite mask is firmly in place up until Shard's addressed by the Zulana as 'Your Majesty' and then the prodigal gets a closer look from the piercing green eyes of the warchief.

Ouida glances towards Shard with like hundreds of others, though rather than shock, for some reason the Oathlands knight's gaze has something of quiet sympathy in it, especially as Shard reacts with shock to being pointed out.

Willow looks from Zulana to Shard to Alaric, and then back to the others at the Redrain bench all astir in quiet conversation.

"Well, it's been only just recently since anyone asked the entire Compact to become a vassal. Thank you, Emissary Zulana," Alaric declares regally. "Do the Voices of the Realm have any inquiries for our distinguished visitors?"

Shard is doing nothing but staring. Whatever she first said aside, she's not saying anything else either.

Helena's eyes are wide as she watches the going son, but Alaric's wry, quick-witted reply makes her laugh aloud, before she puts a hand to her mouth and glances down, cheeks flushing at the little outburst.

Marcus scoffs dismissively as he glances contemptuously at Zulana, "You and your -treaties-."

Edain shakes his head, "No inqueries, I know where the hearts of the Oathlands lie."

Orazio stands. "I do, Your Majesty." He looks between Marcus and Zulana for a moment, lined face impassive. "Emissary Zulana states that the Cardians place themselves above the Gods," he says with a tilt of his head toward Marcus. "Is that an accurate understanding, Lord Marcus?"

Gwenna has left the Redrain Benches.

Victus looks to Alaric with a nod. "I do, your majesty. I would like to ask a question of the Praetor of Cardia." He turns in his seat so he might look at the hulking figure of a man and his weapon. There's no doubting it in his eyes, he's at least a little impressed by the composition Marcus presents. "You claim that Cardia's laws would solve much of Arvum's problems. We have had a millennia of tradition that has thus far, served our people well enough to ensure our continued survival. How would Cardian law bring positive change to our world?"

Karadoc has left the Lyceum Benches.

"Not above, no." Lord Marcus Sulla answers with a polite nod towards Orazio, "Merely indifferent to them. We would, of course, respect the local worships of all of our new subjects in the province who would feel free to worship their gods or god of any sort." He then looks towards Victus, "Uniformity brings peace, in knowing there would be a just, equal application of law. If being made into a slave is a just punishment for thievery in one province, so shall it be in all."

"We sure do seem to be a very sought after commodity," Sabella says cheerfully, smiling brightly at the emissaries, "To be fielding all these generous offers! I do have a question: why seek to rule and absorb the Compact rather than coming to a consensus as common allies against an evil we seem to all be united against?"

Octavia checked willpower + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Merek speaks quietly with those at the commoners benches, but when he hears there are questions from the High Lords to the emisarries, he looks up in thought. Though his gaze shifts to Zulana for a moment.

Brass leaps to his feet from the commoner's bench. "Slavery isn't justified ANYWHERE! And you're a fine one to talk about treaties, you damn dragon-pet!"

Brass has left the Commoner Benches.

"And here I would have thought the Black Spire's love of bureaucracy would make them so very fond of treaties," Zulana remarks to Kozu, after Marcus scoffs. She makes the comment to her 'brother' because, clearly, she's not actually going to address /Marcus/. The comment is, however, certainly loud enough to be overheard.

Octavia manages to hold her tongue, but seems quite pleased that Victus is asking the questions she wants asked.

Alistair's gaze snaps to some terrible uppity commoner who jumps up from the Commoner Benches. Even Thomas hops up on his feet and sniffs at the air slightly at the disturbance.

Belladonna eyes Brass, and shakes her head.

Marcus looks ready to answer Sabella then turns towards Alaric, "We humbly ask the one that just made an outburst be put in irons, and given into the Skykingdom of Cardia's custody. He is a wanted criminal of little interest to you."

Mina is overheard praising Sabella: She makes sense, why can't we just come to an accord?

Lore looks up in surprise at the outburst by... Brass. Then laughs. Again. "Been trying to find you! How nice of you to show up in Arx!"

Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette arrives, delivering a message to Lore before departing.

"Esteemed visitors" Jaenelle begins, her voice strong as she looks between the two. "You have both laid out beautifully constructed ideals of how you believe we should venture forward, giving us examples of what might befall us should we not accept your well thought out proposals. You have expressed what would happen if we picked one over another, or simply none at all." She asks the opposite of Sabella. "Would it not be in your best interest to just let us fail, watch from the side until we come to each to tell you that you knew better all along. Then you can just take what you want without the added travel days, the stress, and the unneeded closeness of someone you may not enjoy?"

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Violet blinks at the man who jumps to his feet and shouts. She gives him a thoughtful look but doesn't say anything. Letting it all play out for the moment. When Marcus makes his deman though the scowl of the century crosses her face. And a pretty good glare too, right on Marcus.

Macda looks to Brass and then presses her lips together, despite the smile.

The Eye of the Prophet stares at Brass for a long time then just slowly shrugs, more black sand dribbling onto the floor.

Victus cants his head slightly in thought when Marcus answers. The High Lord seems somewhat pleased by the answer, in fact. "Well, uniformity is something I find rather agreeable as well. But what concerns me is-" Before he can finish, he looks to the stands as one such Commoner has just jumped up. "Oh who the fuck and what the fuck now?"

Marian looks surprised at the outburst from Brass but her piercing green eyes narrow as the request to put Brass in irons by the Cardian representative. There's tension in her form but she looks to the Voices of the Realm and her King to answer such things. Her own thoughts on the matter are kept to those at the bench.

Shard jerks a little in place as the other man jumps up. Her expression looks incredibly confused, but the action seems to be enough that she starts easing to her feet as well.

Delilah's gaze shifts from the speakers to the Brass's outburst. A gentle look of concern dusts away her faint smile, and she steps in closer to Mia, murmuring something to the countess.

Khanne stops grousing under her breath and looks up at the man screaming at the foreign emissaries. Her eyes go wide in confusion and surprise. "Who is that?" she asks, leaning to whoever is closest.

Harlex looks to grit his teeth and shirk from--Brass? Leaping to his feet. Although for some reason he just barks, "Here, here!" And tamps his sword on the stands.

Alis wide-eyes and looks over her shoulder to the direction of the outburst, the hint of a smile on her lips for just a moment. There's a murmur from her towards those seated at the Valardin benches, but she quiets again immediately.

Mia checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Thorley has joined the Valardin Benches.

Zulana looks caught /entirely/ by surprise at Brass' sudden outburst, but she does her best to rally quickly in the wake of Marcus' demand. "And the Undying Empire requests that he be remanded to our protective custody, to be spared the Black Spire's 'gentle attentions'. There is a case to be made that he is a citizen of Jadairal -- and our Emperor would, I imagine, be most eager to see him."

Jaenelle squints at the man who shouts, her eyes widening. She looks towards Alaric, her voice dropping to the table.

Darren leans forward at the table of Peers, watching Brass closely with his brows steadily lifting.

Edain was about to respond to something at the Table of the Voices of the Realms, but then a man stands up from the Commoner's benches. He locks eyes with Brass for a second and stands, "It seems this man has some greater knowledge of our guests than we do. I would very much like to hear what he has to say Your Majesty." Edain says as he looks to Alaric.

Brass scoffs, and pushes his hands through his hair. "Listen - you don't need ANY of these offers. Especially not from the Cardians! How do you think all their prosperity is gained, huh? They buy and sell people like - like cows. Like dogs. Like swords, and hammers, and they wouldn't know the meaning of 'just law' if it bit their faces off! Me? A wanted criminal? Your masters lied, and ambushed the last of the Metallics! Killed them all, under auspices of parlay!

Acantha's eyes go a bit wide when Brass just jumps up from nowhere really. Then the words he states are listened to and the woman looks...COMPLETELY UNHAPPY. She looks back to the others at the Redrain bench and then back to where Brass and the delegates are.

"I'm afraid that any such remand to either of you won't be possible," Aureth says, rising in a fall of shimmering gold and scarlet. His voice is pitched to carry with all that performative grace he learned when his job was to get attention for money instead of acclaim. He doesn't actually appear to stop to think about this at all as he announces, "The citizen in question is my personal guest, to whom I have offered the hospitality of the Faith of the Pantheon."

Mia's dark gaze darts over to Brass at his outburst. Does she recognize him? Likely not. She has no reason to. But his words, offered in defiance, are more than enough to warrant her attention -- and apparently everyone else's. Moreover, they're enough to make her eye light and a smile, a true smile, touch her face at his defiance.

Shard looks down at Aleksei, and Bliss, and she just looks confused. Then she looks sharply back toward the loud man. And Aureth. And if she's worked anything out, it sure doesn't look like it.

Corban shifts from his position behind the King. He doesn't seem to be off to arrest Brass just yet. But at the same time, need to be ready. Just in case.

"A just end." The Cardian responds bitingly, "For formenting rebellion and civil war." He looks like he is about to say more, but simply scowls as Aureth gives his ruling and bows his head in acceptance of that.

Sparte good eye goes wide as if struck with sudden realization while Brass speaks. He glances around to the other Iron Guard on duty, holding his own position as he watches and listens.

Brady claps at Aureth's declaration.

The sudden commotion from the commoners bench makes Helena turn yet again that way, the Redrain's wide blue eyes falling on the man, before looking back to Alaric, looking stricken at the demand from Marcus. One hand reaches for Elgana's to squeeze nervously. When Brass speaks again, she turns back to watch him as he speaks out against the emissaries. She looks nervous for him, not at all amused like others. She seems to breathe again when Aureth speaks for him and it's accepted.

Kaldur rises to his feet at the Grayson benches, the young man's attention fixed on Brass, mouth drawn into a firm line, listening intently. He nods at Aureth's words, giving a dark look to both emissaries before returning attention to the speakers.

Belladonna eyes Brass and then her fingernails. Well, this is embarrassing. "This is getting decidedly loud and uncivilized. Anyone, oh please, do something." She eyes Duarte, "I was wrong, my friend. Maybe wine will be required."


**********************************************************************
A man leaps from the commoner's benches, unable to stop himself from an emotional outburst of accusation aimed at Praetor Marcus Sulla. And perhaps he did not plan for this, but he makes his own offer. "I once armed a slave revolt that had the entire Skykingdom in fear. I can arm people who have never known the fear of slavery to even greater effect. I am - I was Brass, and I will help you, but there can be /no more slavery/."
**********************************************************************


Brass gives Aureth a surprised, but grateful look, his high emotion obvious on his face.

Oh. Shard is actually standing now. And she's staring at Brass with a look that is distinctly both baffled, and not particularly friendly.

Brady shouts from nearby, "No More Slavery!"

Octavia speaks up behind Aureth and notes, "The inquisition has not notified me of any crimes committed by the man standing before us, nor has he appeared before a grand jury as our law requires. Your Majesty, I would strongly reccommend against turning him over, as we cannot guarantee that he would be treated justly under laws not our own."

Amari is a small bastion of calm at the Valardin benches, following the back and forth of the meeting, and the outburst from Brass with a pleasantly neutral not-smile and brow arched mildly in interest. How she's feeling about all this is kept to herself.

A small salamander, usually unnoticed, suddenly leaps through the air, scampering from the shoulder of the Master of Questions and toward the unknown commoner so certain and sure. Suddenly the warmth of homecoming, the joy of reunion suffuses the entire room - and then it fades, and only those nearest the man who speaks against slavery so firmly can feel it.

"Owing to the lack of previous formal contact, Skykingdom of Cardia does not presently have a criminal extradition treaty with the Crown of the Compact of Arvum, in any case," Alaric replies calmly to Marcus before glancing at Aureth. "Legate Aureth, would you kindly prevail upon your guest to either respect the dignity and tradition of this Assembly or to depart?" You can't scream stuff at the Assembly! He glances back to Marcus. "We are not opposed to establishing formal diplomatic contacts to negotiate a limited expansion of relations going forward, however. I'm told that Cardian wine is quite excellent, I'm sure it would sell very well here."

A bottle of rum seems to be circulating around the Thrax benches. Isles popcorn.

Zulana seems quite happy to accept Aureth's statement with regards to Brass. "So long as he is not given over to the Black Spire." Though the emissary has a slightly distracted air, as though she's already mentally composing a message to send home about /this/ particular development.

Felicia elects to rise to her feet from the commoner's benches, slow and certain, to go and stand nearby the shouting Brass.

At the King's words, Perronne leans out very slowly, and gently tries to tug on Brass's hem. "That means sit down and shush," she sort of whispers, earnestly and helpfully.

Next to Zulana, Kuzo seems tense yet remains quiet as he shifts to look at Brass. He shares a glance with his sister, brows lifted as he murmurs in a dry tone, "Well, this has certainly been a surprise."

Aureth tilts his head slightly to Brass in acknowledgment. He doesn't smile, but he does lift his hand to clasp one of the symbols of the Queen. He says, "Of course, Your Majesty. My guest, Brass, is very familiar with our emissaries and found his dignity momentarily overcome. I'm certain that I can aid him in making his own offer more formally to the Crown."

Brass is probably scampered upon by a salamander, and though he doesn't back down from his chin-upthrust stance, glaring at the Cardian - though he does move a hand to gather Sally close. He looks at Alaric with a distinct air of 'really, bro?' and then down at Perronne, and perches on the very edge of a bench, practically vibrating with righteous fury.

Aureth has left the Godsworn Benches.


**********************************************************************
A woman stands from among the back of the audience; at first she looks absolutely unremarkable -- average height, average brown hair, average brown eyes -- but then a moment later, she has vivid turquoise eyes and pale blonde hair.

"You've heard the words of those who'd see Arvum bend the knee to foreign powers," the woman remarks. "For my part, I have only a simple plea: remember Copper. Remember my teacher. She argued for Arvum to remain free -- free from foreign influence, and free in our choices as well."

Copper's apprentice shakes her head. "I won't lie; the battles ahead will be hard if we stand alone. Darkness /is/ gathering. And if we stand against it, the battles may be difficult. There may be heavier losses than in previous conflicts. But they are still battles that /we can win/, if we all stand together."

"And never give up hope."

And then the woman seems to vanish into the crowd once more.
**********************************************************************


Vercyn starts slightly at something murmured in the Redrain benches. He turns his head to regard Brass with a calculating look

Rinel watches Salvadore. "Good enough for me," she murmurs.

Aureth steps away from the Faith benches and uses the leverage of his Templar guards to ease through the throngs so that he can come up as close to Brass's side as possible. Legate of the Lost, coming through. GET OUT THE WAY. Now that he has laid his claim, he doubles down on it by dint of physicality.

Shard turns where she stands and stares at the newest speaker, though not nearly as long as she was staring before. Then it's back to Brass. And the two delegations. And she finally manages to wrangle most of the bewilderment from her face, though by no means all.

Harlex seems to grit his teeth before he moves to stand and slips toward Felicia as she navigates her way to the commotion where Brass is shouting. He whispers something.

Brass eyes Zulana uncertainly, and Marcus hatefully, and the woman who just spoke with barely contained ATTAGIRL. But he is quiet. To Aureth, when he draws close, he murmurs, "Sorry," looking abashed.

Violet turns to look at the woman speaking and there is surprise in her eyes. Mild though it is. "I am more hopeful than ever," She can be heard to say before quieting once more.

Orazio lets his eyes track Aureth's progress across the room, nodding in approval as the Legate stops near Brass.

Victus is looking distinctively more frustrated as time goes on, more words spoken. He speaks loud enough for most of the Assembly to hear. "If anyone else is going to make an outburst can you /please/ do so in a respective and traditional sense by asking for your audience?" He huffs. The nerve of these people.

Felicia elects to remain standing as Brass sits, remaining in silent guard until Aureth and his Templar's make his way over, ceding the spot with a respectful dip of her head, even if she doesn't elect to sit again.

Mikani watches the back and forth. Her dark eyes seem to be taking everything in.

Marian quietly slips out of the benches and moves into the crowd in a not so subtle fashion to follow Copper's apprentice out of the assembly as she gets lost in the crowd. She moves so quickly some might be surprised to see the warchief disappear as talks continue about the delegates and Brass' arrival.

Marian has left the Redrain Benches.

Kaldur takes the copper pin from his cloak and lifts it. The act spoiled somewhat by his cloak slipping, though he catches it before it falls, still, he lifts the copper twist and stands. At a call for order, he subsides, lips still pressed into a flat line.

Zulana looks deeply pained at /yet another/ interruption of the Assembly; this is just /undignified/. Weren't people supposed to have /questions/?

Oswyn raises his fist, copper gleaming on his ring. But not too high. Really, it attracts little notice.

Belladonna has left the Lyceum Benches.

Brass has joined the Commoner Benches.

Cambria stands, raising a hand that she might be acknowledged and thus given leave to ask a question by the Crown and council of High Lords.

At he arrival of Copper's apprentice, Helena's eyes grow dark and lashes wet, shimmering with tears that she manages to blink away, before casting yet again at Brass, her eyes wide with awe and reverence. She touches that brooch again, her hand crossing her chest so it lies on her heart.

Orazio stands again. "I have another question, this time of Emissary Zulana." A pause. "You mention that those who would be powerful will be taken, trained, and bound to not serve the Abyss. But what is the fate of the common people? What is the reality of life under the Empire? Do they remain free? We have heard rumors but there is little known of your home to be sure."

If nothing else during this Assembly is good news, Laric certainly seems happy to see his salamander over with the rabble rouser slash Metallic, grinning. He eases to his feet and moves to the side of the Crownlands' bench, though he doesn't leave it, opting instead to survey the crowd as a call for order goes out.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa, 2 Redrain Guards leave, following Marian.

Aureth has joined the Commoner Benches.

Shard looks over, seemingly calculating, and then she follows Cambria's example. She just raises her hand.

Ugarte arrives, following Fortunato.

After a moment of allowing the outburst to subside, Marcus seems to put effort into his voice being the closest thing he can to reasonable, which means it still sounds like it is through gritted teeth. "Your..." Marcus glances to the walls for confirmation of a title before turning back to address Alaric, "... majesty. You do not know what a monster this blood mage is." He turns to face Brass. "You would have a fine moral high road..." Lord Marcus Sulla pronounces, "... for one that was going to murder the son of the local governor in order to strike back at Cardia." He looks squarely at Alaric, "We were forced to rescue your son from this monster, and he is safely in the care of a great noble family in Cardia, far from the reach of those that might harm him." He raises a hand, "We would consider softer ties to your province, but if and only if this monster is branded an outlaw and given no sanctuary here."

Fortunato has joined the Commoner Benches.

"Princess Jaenelle and I are also still awaiting answers to our questions," Sabella points out lightly. "Though I understand there were distractions between then and now."

Darren sits up a little straighter and focuses his attention on Marcus as he speaks. He keeps his expression largely neutral, except for the thin and thoughtful press of his lips.

Brass flinches, he does, but he sets his mouth in a grim line and lifts his head again, meeting the eyes of Marcus or Alaric or anyone else.

Violet checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Shard checked composure at difficulty 25, rolling 7 higher.

Lailah checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 32 higher.

Victus checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 6 higher.

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

Thistleton, an elderly and devoted manservant arrives, delivering a message to Fatima before departing.

Vercyn checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

What Marcus has to say doesn't get a verbal reaction from the Duchess of War. But she does rise verrry slowly from her seat at the Lycean Benches. The mention of the child and a holding? Her arms cross slowly in the python leather, the fabric creaking as the stony anger flickers low in her eyes, staring at the man.

Acantha checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

A particular redheaded Greenmarch doesn't look surprised at all, perhaps unsurprisingly. But Monique does spare a sympathetic look to Alaric.

Ysbail checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 20, rolling 10 higher.

Harlan checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 20, rolling 1 higher.

Zulana opens her mouth to reply to Orazio... and then Marcus runs roughshod over /her turn/ to speak. She gives him a disdainful look, as though this is just such a perfect example of what one can expect from the Black Spire's representative. Clearing her throat and acting as though Praetor simply hasn't spoken, the Platinum emissary turns to Orazio. "Giving such bindings to the populace of Arvum would be a ridiculous undertaking," she replies. "Only those who attempt to practice the Art will be brought to Jadairal and given bindings for safety. But those who attempt to conceal their practice of the Art would be in violation of the Empire's laws."

Vercyn rises from his seat, a bottle of whiskey crashing to the floor beneath him as he grips the bench in front of him. He grits his teeth, his eyes staring daggers at Marcus

Harlan shifts in his seat, lips pressed together -- but says nothing.

Niklas checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Kaldur checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

Octavia checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

From the Grayson benches a prince calls out, "WHAT?!" at Marcus's news.

Reese checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 60, rolling 19 lower.

Domonico checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Cambria checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Mia checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

The Eye of the Prophet starts to very slow-clap in congratulations towards Alaric having a child. It stops after thirteen slow claps lightly echo.

Jaenelle looks towards Brass, the softest of sighs escaping at the mention. "Emissary Marcus. The child is certainly old enough now that he can make his own decisions and decide where he wishes to live and with whom. Did you bring him to visit, perhaps we may ask him?"

Rinel checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 8 lower.

Arik isn't standing up but it seems like someone is pointing rather angrily at the emissaries and bending Khanne's ear with 'whispers' could probably hear a bit for those nearby.

Khanne stands from her set on the Redrain benches, placing her hand over her Copper brooch that sits just above her heart. She looks towards those who stand near Brass and gives them a nod before looking to Brass himself. She gives him a nod of respect then turns to look towards Marcus. "It is not only the King's son you are holding. And if we are to have even a modicum of good faith in your words, You would return Alarion to his mother straight away... if you do indeed have him in your custody."

Kaldur doesn't usually make pains to conceal his emotions possibly because when he tries he fails and why bother. His face goes from simply firmset to visibly angry, hand lifting to rest on the hilt of his sword.

Standing up slowly at Calypso's side, Fiora certainly isn't as intimidating. But hey, she's there. Folding her arms over her midsection in a much less menacing way her gaze is icy at least as she looks over the emissaries.

Acantha rises and moves to stand closer to Vercyn a quiet whisper given to the Duke, but she doesn't try to seat him again.

Alis takes her cue on how to react to this news by waiting to see how the Dominus reacts, her gaze instinctively seeking out the leader of the Faith.

Octavia presses her lips together at the new developments, looking over her shoulder at Brass, then up towards the dignitaries and the King.

Miranda rises beside Calypso at her spot by the benches. It is a slow rise, but one that shows solidarity. Her eyes flicker to the Cardian emissary and then to Princess Jaenelle, brows furrowing a moment.

There are definite rumbles from the Commoner's Benches at this news, with one particular Softest Whisper putting her face in her hand, shaking her head slowly.

Marcus shakes his head at Jaenelle, "No, my lady. He wishes to remain in the Black Spire and loves his new home, and we respected his wishes. He remains safely in Cardia."

Mia presses her lips together into a thin line, which slowly drain of nearly all color. As if by reflex, her hands move to smooth out the skirts of her gown.

"You lie!" Arik calls from the Redrain benches in a furious rumble of a shout.

Domonico stands up instantly as Calypso does so, alongside Fiora as well. House Malvici together and those near him may hear a low growl from the Raptor.

Reese seems pretty shocked and her blue eyes widen even as her cheeks first drain with color. They then warm with pink and the princess seems seems pretty angry. She looks to Marcus. "Oh, I doubt that is true!" She says losing her self control.

Rinel stands, her face outraged. "How /dare/ you threaten the child of the King who has given you guest right?! Have you no shame? Have you no honour?!"

Octavia says in Nox'alfar, "If that is so, then bring him here and let him tell the Assembly himself."

Willow just stares, lifting a hand slowly to her mouth and shuffling closer to the others on the Redrain benches.

slams his fist down against the bench in front of him, his eyes bright with fire. "You will return the King's son to him, and to his mother."

Vercyn claims that

Octavia says, "If that is so, then bring him here and let him tell the Assembly himself."

Sorrel hands the bottle of rum to Fatima; the Thrax section is drinking heavily tonight.

Mikani watches the Redrain bench an unreadable look on her face.

Alistair furrows his brow slightly at this revalation, at the supposed kidnapping or saving of the King's child. His eyes shift from Marcus and then to Brass who has quite the manner of accusations levied at his feet.

Shard is still standing, her hand is even still slightly raised, but she's gone very, very still.

Acantha checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

"That answers my question." Acantha manages not to wince as Vercyn slams his hands against the bench in front of him.

Alaric smiles pleasantly at Marcus, although his eyes are somewhat more piercing than pleasant. "It must take severe circumstances indeed to force as great a nation as the Skykingdom of Cardia into action," he observes. "I am pleased to hear of his continued safety. I do expect that he will continue to remain out of the reach of monsters."

Cambria sits back down. Apparently she has reconsidered.

Sparte is keeping his mouth shut. However, he is glancing urgently at the visitor from Eurus, and clearing his throat a few times.

Delilah's quiet response to the Grayson bench is tempered by a soft raise of her hands, punctuating certain points. She may not be drinking, but then, the Scholar Voice probably has some kind of explanation going on.

Clyde the Bored Grayson Guard arrives, following Mason.

Victus raises from his seat at the table. "Settle! Settle!" His voice isn't exactly booming as yelling is rude, but he's certainly utilizing that 'military general' voice of his. "Settle! There will be order in this Assembly! We are hosting guests!"

Cadern has left the Redrain Benches.

Mason has joined the Grayson Benches.

The Mother Mercy is just staring wide eyed at everything that's happening. Sophie sends little short comments to her family every once in a while in response to their conversation, but she's completely enthralled by what's unfolding.

Sabella stands and raises her hands to the crowd, raising her voice, "Let us all take a breath, we cannot control how guests behave in any setting, but we ought to control ourselves in reaction. There is protocol if you wish to speak. Please use it."

Lianne is overheard praising Alaric: The cool, calm leadership the Compact needs in times like these.

Lianne is overheard praising Jaenelle: Incomparable grace and cleverness amid chaos.

Rinel is overheard praising Victus: Keeping order when order must be kept.

Lisebet's petite form does not rise up when all the hubbub erupts. She simply stays where she is, watching and listening to everything quietly. She does murmur something to those closest her, but that is difficult to hear.

Reese blushes and looks guilty as Sabella speaks. She gives her sister a sheepish smile and tries to be good!

Willow is overheard praising Alaric: Calm under fire.

Reese checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 20, rolling 18 higher.

Marcus nods graciously towards his majesty, "Thank you for your understanding. And as to the question about softer relations that do not require the governing polity of this province to be dissolved, the Skykingdom would countenance that provided that neither the monster known as Brass nor any emissaries of the Undying Empire are ever granted safe harbour in this realm."

Mason sneaks in the back and goes to join the Grayson group at the Grayson benches, cause he's a Grayson.

Mirk checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 21 higher.

Vercyn checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Brass tears his eyes away when Alaric responds with such control, looking ashamed as he glances at the people near him. Trying to discern if they are talking to him, rigid in all the chaos.

Mina is overheard praising Alaric: Calm and composed...even though it sounds like Marcus is holding his son hostage. It's impressive.

Miranda speaks softly to Calypso, eyes on Marcus a bit as she stands beside the Malvici Duchess.

"And the Undying Empire," Zulana notes, "might perhaps consider opening trade of our own, provided an effort is made to scour all Cardian influence from Arvum."

Shard checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 1 lower.

Vercyn grips the bench in front of him for a moment, his eyes shifting towards Alaric. He takes a deep breath before he releases it. He looks towards Arik for a moment before he returns to his seat.

Felicia is overheard praising Alaric: Grace and calm under trying times.

As people rise, shout, murmur, and the tension rises, Ouida shifts position. She doesn't rise, nor does her hand go to her peacebound weapons. She does, however, look ready to position herself as shield for Orvyn and Lisebet at a moment's notice. Her posture is vibrant, ready, though as things calm down she relaxes once more.

Perhaps predictably out of the Halfshav's who made an outburst Arik is the last to sit down.

Brass literally bites his lips, glaring daggers at Marcus.

As the shouting and the fist banging start, Ian's grip shifts ever so slightly on his cane, and his electric blue eyes become more alert, scanning the room, picking out details.

Willow is overheard praising Brass: Standing against would be conquerors and being right.

"If you would, when you return home as I am sure you certainly wish to do soon as you have been away for quite the long time" Jaenelle tells Marcus with the softest of expressions, "that you will tell Alarion he will always be welcomed with his people, and we shall celebrate the time when he finally is able to return home. Thank you for looking after the King's child as if he were your own, and for respecting his wishes. Should those wishes change after you tell him we've been waiting, you hopefully remember where we are located on the map."

Shard doesn't say a word, but she's still standing inexplicably, raising her hand, and as she continues to stand, it slowly becomes clear that she's...angry. It's a strange sort of realization, because the anger doesn't really show in her face very much. Very /much/. Although it's growing, and becoming decidedly more obvious.

Kaldur keeps his feet and continues to stand. He's spent the better part of the last three weeks in prayer at the Shrines, standing is most welcome. He looks at Brass in the swirl of all this chaos as if he could will the man the little scraps of composure he possesses. Solidarity.

Sabella retakes her seat and nods to both groups, "Thank you for your answer and willingness to compromise." She says graciously.

Willow watches Marcus with stoic skepticism.

Miranda nods to Calypso and remains standing beside her.

Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette arrives, delivering a message to Lore before departing.

Khanne remains standing, her pale cheeks turned a shade of crimson that is not surprising on an angered red head. She takes a few breaths and when her words are not heard or responded to, manages to calm herself enough to slowly lower her seat, looking first towards Alaric, then back towards Brass before she is fully seated.

Rinel is overheard praising Aureth: The Faith protects its own, no matter the cost.

Brady rises from the commoner bench and moves to stand near Aureth's guards, crossing his arms.

Alaric turns to regard Zulana with mild interest. "Is that so? How is the wine in your country?" he inquires. "It would be unfair not to broach the same idea of tentative diplomatic and trade relations with the Empire as well. Though your nations do seem to be quite bitter rivals, Arvum seeks friendship in the wider world. Yet we must weigh it carefully against the potential danger of becoming embroiled in existing disagreements, regrettably."

Rinel looks at Shard. Looks at the assembly. Sighs, shrugs, and stands. "Peers of the Realm!" she barks, loudly. "Her Majesty... Shard... has risen to speak."

Victus checked composure at difficulty 30, rolling 2 lower.

Auda finally moves, but it's only to rise up and stand behind Shard, slightly to one side of her. Supportive, perhaps?

Octavia checked composure at difficulty 30, rolling 10 lower.

Sparte checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 11 lower.

Merek reaches up to try and pull Rinel back to the bench, for whatever that is worth.

Sparte facepalms, then immediately gives a yelp of pain because he facepalmed himself in a bruised eye.

Victus immediately stands, jutting a finger to Rinel. "You will hold your tongue when the King is addressing our foreign guests!" That one definitely borders on yelling. "SIT. DOWN."

Octavia snortlaughs at Rinel's declaration, choking on the rum she'd just lifted to her lips.

Alis is overheard praising Victus.

Zulana makes a soft scoffing noise at the suggestion that Cardia is /caring for/ the boy. But then she turns to those at the main table. "The Compact need not give an answer to our offer today; the Empire is patient," she offers to the King and High Lords. You know, just in case the Assembly has now degenerated beyond any hope of restoring order.

"I believe what you meant to say" Jaenelle informs Rinel calmly, "was, Your Majesty, the guest the emissaries have invited personally has found out what she wishes to speak about, and should there be a moment the floor should be opened to her."

Shard gives Rinel a very distracted look. Very distracted, and yet, if she could kill with her eyes, she might just.

Rinel checked willpower at difficulty 20, rolling 6 lower.

Rinel mumbles something incoherently apologetic and sits down.

Violet groans for just a moment and turns to look at Rinel. "Rinel, -sit down-," She says very simply, but casting her voice in the way only a Commander can.

Marcus raises a hand, "At least a month to consider before we reconvene with a decision, I'd suggest." He then falls silent to hear Shard's words, with a surprising amount of deference.

Domonico takes his lead from Calypso, staying standing near his Duchess, tense but matching her movements. If she sits, he'll sit.

Alaric beckons Shard to come down and address the Assembly. "I'm rather curious to hear what Mistress Shard has to say about all of this, myself," he declares regally.

Lore gets a light, refreshing bottle of Bell Beer from Large Oiled Leather Rucksack.

Mia has left the Grayson Benches.

1 Greenwood Tribe Blood Warriors have been dismissed.

3 House Riven Soldiers have been dismissed.

white-tailed eagle have been dismissed.

Lianna have been dismissed.

Jasher lifts himself briefly to aisle closer towards where Victus is sitting. Perhaps in his own show of unity. Perhaps to confide in something.

Mia has joined the Grayson Benches.

Shard lets her hand drop. She stands in place a moment, visibly wrangling herself, shuttering that temper...if not away, then somewhere less visible. She breathes twice, slowly, and then she steps away from the commoner benches and makes her way purposefully down toward the center of the room. Right as she reaches it, she breathes in again, and then says, with obvious attempts at restraint, "I would like to know what th--" A beat. "I'd like an explanation." There's some emphasis on the last word. Just a little.

Shard has left the Commoner Benches.

Brass checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 7 lower.

Lailah has joined the line.

Zulana turns to offer a deep bow to Shard. "Prima Shard," she greets, respectfully. "I am honored to help, but I fear I'm uncertain what it is you wish an explanation for?"

Orazio has left the Voices of the Realm.

Disciple Isabeau have been dismissed.

Grace, a twittering songbird have been dismissed.

2 Faith of the Pantheon trained guards have been dismissed.

2 Faith of the Pantheon novice guards have been dismissed.

Victus checked composure at difficulty 25, rolling 11 lower.

Shard opens her mouth. It actually takes her a moment to say words. "...That," she says to Zulana. "I'd like an explanation about that." She gestures toward the other woman, who is /bowing/, as if to include this as well. "...Prima?"

Mina has left the Commoner Benches.

Marcus bows his head towards Shard, "Forgive us, your majesty, we had no idea one of the blood was present. The skylords would also wish to say that of course diplomatic immunity would be assured towarsd a Prima. Unlike some, we do not rely on excessive treaties to track such things."

Willow has left the Redrain Benches.

Mina stands and heads to the back of the room, the cheery jingle of her charms and the tock-tock-tock of her walking stick were overwhelmed by the murmurs from the crowd. She leans against the back wall with a sigh.

Cheeks still flushed, jaw still clenched, Khanne seems to still be angry, maybe even angrier, but calm enough to stay seated. Grey eyes like darkened ice watch Shard with a curious and intense gaze.

Auda moves, after a few moments of uncertainty. It's gone, after that moment, and she walks resolutely to stand by Shard's shoulder again,though a few paces back.

Ysbail is calm, quiet and sitting - this whole affair is a little like watching a cabbage cart wreck in process. Try as you might, you just can't look away.

After murmuring something with someone down the bench from her, Willow draws up to an unremarkable height and pads quietly over to join those guarding Brass, and goes still.

It takes a moment for Zulana to realize the implications of what Shard's asking; her eyes widen slightly as though it simply hadn't occurred to her that the woman would not /know/. "Nefer'khat is divided into Primasens, each led by a Prima -- I suppose the closest Arvani term would be 'Queen'. One branch of the royal line of the Primasen of the Wolves came to Arvum long ago." She pauses, as though delivering dire news. "The royal line in Nefer'khat has died out, Prima Shard; you are the last of that bloodline. Though in your absence, the Primasen is ruled by a regent."

Delilah has left the Grayson Benches.

Scribble, a Delicate Social Butterfly have been dismissed.

Sparte nods as they explain it like that made perfect sense. He is gently rubbing at the bruise he smacked earlier.

The Eye of the Prophet watches Zulana and Shard speak, and shuffles closer to the Voice of the Realms table. It raises a gloved hand towards Alaric and intones in a strange echoing voice, "Gift." Then drops another eurusi robe on the top of the table in front of Alaric. It shuffles back as if nothing happened and everyone is still staring at Shard and Zulana.

Rinel says in Eurusi, "Filthy blasphemy."

Octavia opens her mouth, then closes it, then stares at the Eurusi... then lifts the rum back to her lips. Best. Assembly. EVER.

Victus says in Eurusi, "I told you to shut up!"

Falak says in Eurusi, "It is blessed. Bear witness."

Violet stands up suddenly as the Prophet drops something, "Your majesty, DON'T!"

Merek says in Eurusi, "Please don't use this tongue like that."

Miranda looks over to Rinel, then to Victus. Her brows arch a bit.

Mikani wishes she knew Eurusi.

Violet stands up suddenly as the Prophet's Eye drops something, "Your majesty, DON'T!" She calls out without even a moments hesitation. Then she remains standing, staring at the robe with obvious disdain.

Edain knows a little Eurusi. Her name is Katarina.

Lou grows very, very still when Falak gets close to the table to give Alaric a 'gift'.

Merek shifts up his language to speak Eurusi towards Rinel, then he blinks when Violet also speaks, looking that way as he stands up when he hears something miht be the matter, then notices something is being handed off and waits.

Theo has left the Lyceum Benches.

Auda says in Eurusi, "There is still protocol to follow. Let Shard speak."

Falak falls silent and goes still as a statue.

Shard's mouth makes some funny motions. It opens, it closes. It looks a little like she's a beached fish. She turns her head to the side a little bit, and then back. There's a bunch of shouting people behind her, but she might as well not hear anything. "...What?" she finally says. It's rather quiet.

Thorley has left the Valardin Benches.

Rowland have been dismissed.

Corban takes it upon himself to step forward and take custody of the robe and gift placed before Alaric, doing so on behalf of the King. "Your Majesty," says the First Captain, efficiently.

Lou seems to relax considerably when it is Corban that takes the 'gift' in Alaric's stead.

Auda pads closer to Shard, speaking quietly to her.

Violet starts as Corban goes to pick it up and her eyes widen in worry. "Do-" But the man holds the robe and she is looking tense. It's too late now. "Fuck," She might be heard to mutter.

Zulana pauses, taking in Shard's clear confusion. After a moment, she offers almost sympathetically, "Seek me out later, Prima Shard; I fear that this Assembly is proving... somewhat unruly." The last is said with just a hint of distaste. "The Undying Empire has long had treaties of peaceful trade with the many peoples of Nefer'khat, so I would be honored to speak with you."

Alaric eyes the robe with a regally appreciative smile that wholly masks his intention not to even touch the thing, letting Corban take it away as he regards Shard. "It seems you're a foriegn representative as well. Congratulations," he tells Shard reassuringly. "I'm not sure catching you up on your lineage is germane to the business of the realm, however, but we'd be quite happy to facilitate you meeting with the emissaries later if you like." He looks out to the room. "Are there any questions from the Peerage for our visitors?"

Turn in line: Lailah

The rum continues to circulate around the Thrax benches. It looks like Fatima and Octavia are translating. Ian still looks like he half-expects a bunch of theme-appropriate ninjas to come down from the ceiling.

Laric has joined the line.

Fiora has joined the line.

Shard nods a little numbly. Either she agrees with Zulana, or Alaric, or both, or she's just making a gesture that seems easiest right now. Either way, she doesn't say anything else. She does, however, just kind've stand there. And then she puts her hand to her face.

Violet has joined the line.

Auda once again speaks softly to Shard, hopefully guiding her back to the benches.

Tamorin, a bubbly Whisper apprentice arrives, following Solange.

Octavia has joined the line.

Lailah rises when Alaric mentions a time for questions, "I do, your majesty." She answers Alaric, waiting for permission to speak before turning her gaze towards the Eye of the Prophet. "The emissaries of Cardia and the Undying Empire have made their desires clear, conflicting as they are. I wonder, honored guest, if you have any words of wisdom to share with us regarding these offers, or anything else you deem relevant to either this assembly as a whole or for me personally. Though I admit I sincerely doubt the latter."

Solange has joined the Commoner Benches.

Acantha is overheard praising Alaric: For keeping a cool head during these times.

Acantha is overheard praising Victus: For being a voice of reason.

Danvir has left the Redrain Benches.

Violet settles slowly back into her seat. The call for questions has her raising her hand to indicate she has one. But otherwise she returns to calm silence, though her eyes are uncomfortably on Falak.

The Eye of the Prophet turns its mirrormask towards Lailah, and in the strange echoing voice says, "It matters not. Choices made, promises kept, promises broken, all to the same road. All will eventually bear witness to His Glory, and His Sacrament shall wash over all lands. And so we give thanks. Choose as you will."

Shard isn't normally someone who just lets herself be led somewhere, but this Assembly spits on normal. So she goes along with Auda, even if she twists a little at any actual attempted physical contact.

Shard has joined the Commoner Benches.

Alistair stands mostly still when he is not stalking about, his gaze going from one foreigner to the next. And now Shard is included in their sentry duty, though their Eurusi guest has the greatest joy of being stared at by the man. Though its hard to tell if he realizes it. As the thing offers a gift, Alistair tenses, both in reaction to the gift and the warning Violet gives.

Turn in line: Laric

Zulana grimaces at the Eye's words, but says nothing. For now.

Lailah inclines her head, "Thank you."

Marcus mutters underneath his breath, "Fucking Eurusi priests."

Alaric gestures to Laric that it's his turn to contribute to the somewhat unruliness. "The Assembly recognizes the Master of Questions."

Mason Grayson turns his attention on the Eye of the Prophet now, his lips pressed to a thin line as he listens to the Eurusi masked man speak. His jaw is tight. He looks very very unhappy.

Fatima would console Mason with a drink, but he's waaaay over there.

Kozu's lips form into a perfect moue of distaste as he murmurs, "Creepy."

Elgana glances toward the Eye of the Prophet, her expression full of worry before she looks back to Helena to murmur something softly to her sister.

Auda has left the Commoner Benches.

Auda has joined the Commoner Benches.

Reese has left the Grayson Benches.

Rosalie, a lady in waiting have been dismissed.

Lou chats quietly at the Grayson benches until something Niklas says, and she just barely manages to confine a chuckle. Barely! However, from time to time, she share's her Mason's looks toward Falak. Though, for the moment, her attention is on Laric.

Zulana nods in answer to her brother Kozu, obviously in full agreement with his opinion.

Acantha has left the Redrain Benches.

Brady gets a gold-banded ring adorned with a single polished opal from A rugged leather pouch.

Lore has left the Commoner Benches.

When Elgana speaks to her, Helena too looks in the direction of the Eye of the Prophet, ducking her head again with a slight shiver -- it's clear she's in agreement with Marcus' assessment. By all accounts, the eurusi priest is creepy. It's unanimous, if little else is.

Vanora has left the Thrax Benches.

Valdemar has left the Thrax Benches.

5 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor leave, following Valdemar.

Lethe has left the Thrax Benches.

Aureth has left the Commoner Benches.

Gregory, an unassuming disciple have been dismissed.

2 Templar Knight guards have been dismissed.

Binky, an asshole crow have been dismissed.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Laric says when he is granted leave to speak. He smooths a hand over his sash as he makes his way over to the floor, murmuring something apologetic to Shard when he passes her. He turns his attention to Zulana and Kozu first, smiling faintly. "Honorable emissaries, when you write your report to the Undying Emperor, send him my regards - and please, send him this as well." He removes a small folio marked with the Inquisition's sigil from behind his sash and offers it to the nearest of the two. "Though the Compact once forgot its promise to remember the Metallic Order's sacrifices, we have begun to remember. We would have him know that. Inside this you'll find copies of Princess Sorrel's Metallic Cycle, and small drawings of the statues added to the Hall of Heroes to honor Copper, Brimstone and Cobalt."

Mikani sips her rum deeply.

Zulana pauses for a moment, then accepts the folio from Laric. "Thank you, Master of Questions; I'm certain the news will brighten His spirit, as will the news that the Brass Knight lives." Though given how long this report is going to end up being at this point, maybe she'll make /Kozu/ write it instead. "I will convey your greeting to him, as well."

Eilonwy has left the Redrain Benches.

1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant leaves, following Eilonwy.

Beatrice has left the Lyceum Benches.

Sorrel rises when she hears her name, and since speaking would be out of turn, she merely bows in the direction of the front of the Assembly, then sits down again.

Victus is overheard praising Sorrel.

Scribble, a Delicate Social Butterfly leaves, following Delilah.

"Thank you." Laric replies easily and clearly. "A moment more, my apologies," he tells the Voices of the Realm apologetically, then turns to Marcus. "Lord Marcus, you have spoken at length about the value of Cardian law. You extended an offer that would open trade with the Skykingdom without becoming a province, unless I'm mistaken?" he asks. "I would like to know, would Cardia give equal respect to our laws while within the Compact?"

"If you were mere trading partners," Marcus begins as he nods towards Laric, "And did not become a province of the Skykingdom, you would keep your own laws and polity organization, as ramshackle as it is. But this would require no cooperation with the criminal known as Brass or the Undying Empire whatsoever." He shrugs, "We cannot trade with one who trades with our enemies."

Etienne has left the Godsworn Benches.

Monique has left the Valardin Benches.

Octavia snorts again at Laric's question, raising the rum to her lips, but focusing her eyes on Marcus. The Praetor's answer interests her, then amuses her quite a bit. Tipping the bottle back, the chief magistrate chugs as if playing her own internal drinking game.

Brass glances up and at Marcus, face pulled into a boyish scowl of annoyance. He probably wants to yell some more.

Ysbail has left the Redrain Benches.

Felicia is overheard praising Shard: Easily the most diplomatic I've ever seen her.

What has been a moue of distaste is now an outright sneer as Marcus speaks. While Zulana refuses to look in Marcus' direction, Kozu's stare his way must be withering enough for the both of them.

Cirroch has left the Redrain Benches.

Lisebet is still being quiet, seated politely, watching all the interesting goings on, tucked away with her friends and relatives.

"Of course," Laric acknowledges genially, smile surface deep. "The Inquisition learned of an appalling crime last year and has reason to believe a rogue Cardian may have been involved. Should our investigation turn up any evidence as to their identity, we will be in touch with you, as we would hate for that to interfere with establishing a strong partnership with the Skykingdom, should His Majesty choose to accept your offer." He takes a step back and bows towards the Voices. "Thank you, Your Majesty." He heads to the benches.

Turn in line: Fiora

Alaric says, "The Assembly recognizes Lady Fiora Malvici."

Fiora watches Lailah with slightly lidded eyes before listening to Laric's question, and the response. She brings up her hand to push some hair subconciously behind her ear. "Emissaries. We thank you for the tremendous amount of concern you have shown for our Compact in your own way. It is clear that most of us desire similar things, even if our approaches may be polarizing to each other."

"Protection of the Compact is important to all of us in varying degrees. We thank you for your aforementioned concern. You have indicated if we stand alone, we shall fall." Fiora dips her chin. "In the spirit of the same goal. I humbly ask that you please indulge my question. However unlikely should the Compact find an alternate form of protection that would satisfy all parties that the Compact would not fall to darkness, what would need to be displayed to your nations to satisfy you that this is the case? How would we theoretically be able to prove to you that our alternate form of protection would work?" She pauses, glancing to both emmisaries.

"Assuming we are all interested in the safety of the people here."

Brady is overheard praising Fiora: Smart and well spoken.

Reigna is overheard praising Fiora: Well asked

Jasher's eyes tick over towards Fiora. His eyebrows arch briefly.

Reigna is overheard praising Alaric: A good and poised king to be proud of.

Shard checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 4 lower.

Brady is overheard praising Alaric: Confident, collected, intelligent and inspiring. A Noble King for the Commoners to rejoice.

Marcus tilts his head thoughtfully at Fiora as he considers her words, "We would leave you be until and unless either the Undying Empire became active here, or until your province fell into darkness entirely and we were forced to act before it spread. However." The cardian praetor emphasizes the words, "You lost your most powerful protector. We harbor extreme doubts that you can stand on your own against the sort of forces that were brought to bear, without training in the Art that we could provide you."

"Apologies, emissary. Let me state my question more clearly. In what way could we prove to you that we have replaced our most powerful protector to your satisfaction?" Fiora states.

"The proof will be in Arvum not falling to darkness," Zulana replies to Fiora. "Should you reject our offer, then so long as Arvum remains standing -- so long as none of the darker forces sleeping or bound here awaken -- the Empire will leave you to your own devices. In memory of and out of respect for the Great Unbound." She frowns. "But should one any of the dark forces that could threaten the rest of the world outside of Arvum arise -- or should you make formal alliance with Cardia -- the Empire will find ourselves forced to act." A pause, and she adds, "But as much as it /pains/ me to agree with anything the Black Spire's representative might say, the Empire shares their doubts." She sounds as though the admission that she agrees with Marcus on /anything/ leaves a foul taste in her mouth.

Zulana gives Fiora an almost sad look at the clarification. "No one can replace her; that is why the world mourns with Arvum."

Orvyn has left the Valardin Benches.

Heimlin, the Scholar, 5 Harthall house guards, Kestrel, the Scholar leave, following Orvyn.

Marcus looks like it pains him deeply to nod in agreement with Zulana.

Solange checked charm + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Fiora's lips thin and she nods. "Of course. No one could fully replace her. But I am asking. If we found an alternative solution to protection, contrary to your offers. Am I understanding correctly that you would accept this declaration without any sort of evidence? Until you saw Arvum fall you would stay your arms?"

Fiora's lips thin and she nods. "Of course. No one could fully replace her. But I am asking. If we found an alternative solution to protection, different than your gracious offers. Am I understanding correctly that you would accept this declaration without any sort of evidence? Until you saw Arvum fall you would stay your arms?"

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Miranda has left the Lyceum Benches.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards leave, following Miranda.

"If one of credible power made it, perhaps." Marcus states with a shrug.

Mina is overheard praising Fiora: Pushing past the emotional dismissal of a serious question to get a real answer from the emmissaries is to be admired.

Pasquale has left the Lyceum Benches.

Willow is overheard praising Fiora: Probably the most thoughtful part of the discourse I've seen from someone who isn't a Master of something or on the Voices bench.

Fiora smiles, "I would like to know how credible power could be demonstrated to you. But perhaps this is a question that could be answered at another time." She nods to Alaric. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

"So long as you neither fall to darkness, nor accept the Black Spire's offer to bend the knee," Zulana clarifies. This second point is apparently important.

Turn in line: Violet

Jasher continues watching Fiora for a while as she speaks. When he finally looks away, his brows lower into a thoughtful furrow.

Violet stands when it is her turn and moves down onto the floor to speak to the emissaries. Though as she passes Falak she might pause for half a second, looking at him hard, before moving on at a quick pace. The woman bows respectfully first to the table of peers and especially Alaric, "My thanks, you Majesty," She says softly. Then turns to Zulana and her brother bowing to them and then to Marcus. Her face is tight but otherwise she wears no expression, her tone professional and crisp, "Honored emissaries, first let me say thank you for giving your time to these questions. Thank you," And her head bobs appreciatively though her voice stays the same. Onwards, "No decision can be based simply on the words so far presented, I'm sure you can understand that. When can we expect full copies of all laws that you have mentioned? A list of punishments and how courts run, as well, would likely be needed if none are about to answer questions."

Octavia is overheard praising Violet: An excellent question; I too would like to read Cardian and Imperial laws.

Saoirse has left the Lyceum Benches.

2 House Velenosa Guards, Dreya, an older woman in Velenosan livery, Ailfryd, a tall, thin man with a haugty air leave, following Saoirse.

Gregory, an unassuming disciple, 2 Templar Knight guards, Binky, an asshole crow leave, following Aureth.

Mikani has left the Thrax Benches.

1 Redoubt Buccaneers, Damien Pierce - A Charming Assistant, 1 Redreef Warden, 1 Thrax Guards leave, following Mikani.

The Praetor of Arvum thinks about that for a long moment then nods at Violet, "We could have volumes one through eight hundred and ninety three of the Codex of Cardian Law delivered to you by caravel within a month, if necessary." He pauses then adds, "The other twelve thousand would take some time to have scribes see to a copy, but that could be arranged."

Octavia makes another 'pft'

Willow kind of grins in Octavia's direction.

Ouida continues to listen, quietly and respectfully, letting the conversation both at the bench and in the gathering beyond wash over her. Though at the mention of volumes upon volumes of lawbooks, she can't help but quirk a smile at one corner of her mouth.

Ian pinches the bridge of his nose and takes a drink of rum.

Zulana gestures vaguely, as though this question is of no concern. "Yes, yes. I suppose we can obtain a copy of the Empire's legal code, for your rulers to peruse. Ours is hardly so... /tangled/... as the Black Spire's. The most relevant parts are simply a prohibition on using the Art for personal gain -- using it against others -- and a strict prohibition on any traffic with the abyss; those who are found to be in violation of those laws would be taken to Jadairal. And of course, all practitioners of the Art would be expected to come to Jadairal for training, and to accept such bindings in order to prevent misuse of the Art."

Jaenelle asks, "may we keep the caravel?"

Octavia makes another 'pft' noise at the number of volumes the self-proclaimed Praetor names. A bit louder than she intends, she mutters "Is each law its own volume? Do I have that kind of shelf space? Can I convince the king to build me a second library?"

Sparte blinks very slowly at the mention of how many laws there are.

Victus seems pleased. "Please, bring us everything, Praetor. I have full confidence in Lady Octavia Kennex's ability to present us with an easily understandable summary."

Rowynna sniffs, perhaps to stifle a laugh? "Well, that seems...like a few volumes."

Violet smirks ever so slightly at the number of volumes mentioned, but it is quickly gone and she nods. "Understandable," She says with all seriousness. Then she takes a seconds pause and licks her lips slowly before she says, "One other thing. A statement, brief. You doubt our strength. Our ability. Our skill. Maybe we have lost much of what we once knew. But we -are- strong. Stronger than you know. I have failed recently in working together with others and it has taught me a valuable lesson. Working together," And she looks at Marcus, and then Zulana and her brother, "With those you think you cannot, or even should not, will often earn much better results." And with that she bows and turns to the table of peers and bows to them as well before retaking her seat.

Mia is overheard praising Jaenelle: A pertinent question if I've heard one tonight.

Marcus smiles at Jaenelle and answers her warmly, "No." He then regards Violet, "It may be as you say. Was there anything else?"

"The Assembly recognizes the Chief Magistrate," Alaric declares with a gesture to Octavia.

Turn in line: Octavia

The number might be daunting, but Octavia seems positively /giddy/ at the thought of getting to review the laws of other nations. She carefully pushes herself to her feet, the rum that has been circulating the Thrax benches making the woman's stance less certain and her islander accent much, much more pronounced. "Your Majesty, Your Graces," she begins, offering a bow, "The questions I find most pressing, the questions of law, have already been answered." Turning sideways, the Chief Magistrate gestures towards the commoner benches. "One they called 'Brass Knight', you have been silent since your earlier outburst. Your restraint is... commendable, but you clearly have something you want to say." Motioning him towards the voices and the emissaries, she instructs, "Please, come forward and address the Peers. I trust our guests will honor our laws that no blood is shed in this hall."

Violet shakes her head in the negative to Marcus and moves back to her seat with a quiet, "Thank you," Leaving the floor to Octavia. As they pass she bobs her head to the woman and returns to her seat.

Princess Sally Acorn, an acorn toting red squirrel have been dismissed.

Harlex has left the Commoner Benches.

Dolmen, a Crimson Agent leaves, following Harlex.

Lou turns to look over at Brass when he is called forward. A tiny smile touches her lips, and she sits up, looking interested to hear what more he has to say.

Cillian sits up a bit looking over to Brass to see if hee steps forward to speak, his eyes on him waiting.

Reese has joined the Grayson Benches.

As the Brass Knight is called, the Eye of the Prophet abruptly turns and shambles out towards the exit, with a strange shifting gait as if it's confused by the number of legs it has. A small trail of black sand is left in its wake. Nothing to see here.

Duarte has joined the line.

Rohm the Blackguard, Avalanche, a Snow Shepherd arrive, following Caelis.

Brady has left the Commoner Benches.

Cambria certainly doesn't think so, given how she stares at it in equal parts confusion and revulsion.

The line has been dismissed by Alaric.

Slipping in, Caelis looks about. Spotting Edain, she nods to herself slightly and goes to claim a seat in the picture of "Do you know what time it is, Mister?"

Victus' cat slowly draws out from under his coat. The Claw sniffs at the black sand, before the Prince plants a boot on its tail and drags it right back under its seat. It gives a soft yowl of displeasure.

Caelis has joined the Valardin Benches.

Violet watches Falak move to leave and it seems like she might rise to her feet to follow. The woman glances at Alistair and then after the fleeing sandy Eurusi.

Brass stands up, looking uncertainly from Octavia to the peers, though he doesn't quite focus his gaze on Alaric. Then, he looks at Marcus, and a look of ecstatic hatred fires his features. But he pushes it down. "Actually." A glance at Zulana. "I haven't been in my right mind for a long time. I think you all know what Cardia is really offering. They want to buy you - your children. Give you some money, some leather, some magic -- to own you. Even the ones who aren't slaves." He presses his lips together. "Platinum was a good man. And now he's a slaver, too. There's always a justification, of course," And his tone is scornful. "But those justifications are nothing- they're garbage. Lies. There's no justification for doing what you know is evil. Or - planning to do it." And now, finally, he looks at Alaric. "I'm sorry," Brass says, with feeling.

Shard checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Dafne has left the Lyceum Benches.

The High Inquisitor motions to some Confessors to clean up the ... black evil sand... that one of their guests has rudely left about the Assembly. The High Inquisitor himself taking a moment to bend down and investigate the leavings.

Brass adds, "I don't expect forgiveness, but I'm sorry anyway." And then he draws away, not sitting back down, but clearly ceding the floor.

Brass has left the Commoner Benches.

Dafne has joined the Lyceum Benches.

Reese is still quietly here. She listens to Brass' words with seemingly close attention.

Sorrel has left the Thrax Benches.

Teonia Redreef have been dismissed.

Aryka Wyrmfang have been dismissed.

3 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

2 Thrax Elite Guards have been dismissed.

Willow calmly follows Brass after the floor is ceded, still quiet. Perhaps its the Northern blood that possesses her to stand bt the side of the one speaking out so openly i terms of slavery and opposition.

Brady slips out quietly.

Mason rises after Brass speaks, looking his way briefly with sympathy on his face before he moves to depart, retiring from the Assembly.

Violet checked composure at difficulty 25, rolling 5 higher.

Mason has left the Grayson Benches.

Clyde the Bored Grayson Guard leaves, following Mason.

Octavia steels her expression at Brass's words. "That is... truly unfortunate, and what I feared when the Children of the Emperor mentioned binding people against the Abyss. The loss of free will. Thank you, Brass Knight." Turning back towards the emissaries, she repeats, "You are slavers, he says. Even my own people, of the islands, find the practice of unrestrained slavery abhorrent. My house recently released all of our thralls at great pain to ourselves and to those around us... and this Compact stood behind us. It shored us up, and we owe our peers a great debt of gratitude." A bit of a stumble, but she catches herself on the bench next to her. "I cannot condone or accept any people who would undo what my brother did, even so rashly as he did it."

Alaric regards Brass' declaration with a distantly stonefaced expression for a few moments without comment before regarding Octavia with a faint squint. "Will that be all, Chief Magistrate?"

Violet seems to start at something and turns to peer after the already gone Falak. Her face clouding with a frown before she turns back to what is going on.

Octavia bows once more and replies, "I yield, Your Majesty," then sits back down on the bench.

Alistair pushes up from his kneeling position as a Confessor comes rushing in with a look of confusion and worry, stepping forward to whisper a report to the man. Alistair's brow furrows. "He disappeared?" can be heard in the conversation as the Inquisitor follows the trail of black sand. He has a disgruntled look similar to Marcus previously. Fucking Eurusi Priests.

Ian doesn't seem in a particular hurry to go. The bottle of rum has come back to him, and it's not totally empty just yet. As people begin to drift out, he stays to listen to the end.

Marcus gives Alistair a look of sympathy and nods his head once.

"Very well, then. I believe the immediate curiosities of the Peerage have been satisfied. I would like to extend my appreciation to our various guests for their forthright answers and thought-provoking perspectives," Alaric declares regally as his expression relaxes. "As no other issues remain to be brought to our attention tonight, I declare this Assembly of Peers of the Compact of Arvum adjourned. May our Compact prosper and thrive as free and righteous people."

Lisebet is overheard praising Alaric: Grace and Wit under pressure.

Lou seems to echo Alaric's thoughts. Once the meeting is called to a close she follows after Mason.

Marcus bows towards the Voices of the Realms and gestures for his cardian retinue to fall in behind him, "Very well, your majesty. When the next Assembly of Peers is ready, we shall await the decision of your province." The cardian delegation marches out.

Jaenelle is overheard praising Alaric: Long live the King

Darren is overheard praising Alaric.

Reese is overheard praising Alaric: A great king!

Lianne is overheard praising Violet: It is good to know the weight and nature of your chains.

Octavia is overheard praising Alaric: Long live the King.

Reese listens to Alaric and then cheers for him. "Yay, King Alaric!" She says.

Alis gestures towards Caelis, for Edain, once Alaric has adjourned the assembly. "You're in trouuuuuble." she mouths to him, before making her own preparations to leave.

Fatima has left the Thrax Benches.

Ouida rises, and curties deeply to the King and the High Lords as the assembly is ended. Though with that done, she will offer an arm to Lisebet for an escort out, if the Farshaw lady desires it.

Calaudrin has left the Commoner Benches.

3 Iron Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Cillian stands up once the he knows the gathering is done and he takes the seps to move over to Willow and Brass,

Cillian has left the Redrain Benches.

Zulana offers a respectful bow to the leaders of the Compact -- and then turns to offer a similarly respectful bow to Shard, where she sits among the commoners. With that, she gestures to Kozu, leading her brother out of the Assembly once more.

Kozu leaves, following Zulana.

Elgana has left the Redrain Benches.

Ouida is overheard praising Alaric: Huzzah! Epic charge through very eventful and marathon court scene, done masterfully!

Fatima rises, sways, and stretches a little overdramatically. She does peer at the sand a little as she walks out, and even scuffs at it some with her slipper. OHNOEEVILSAND.

Lianne has left the Lyceum Benches.

Fajra leaves, following Lianne.

Sparte remains at his station, watching the assembly to ensure people leave in an orderly manner.

Arik has left the Redrain Benches.

Caelis gets back up from Alis' side and taps her foot at Edain. "I'm fitting to carry you over my shoulder except I left my dashing cap at home dear." She announces and holds out a hand to take Edain away.

Mina wordlessly leaves the assembly, heading off to think about what happened.

Rowynna offers a nod to those who joined her on the Thraxian benches, before getting up, smoothing her clothes. She peers about herself for a moment before looking pensive and meanders her way out of the building.

Amari stands promptly, but has the composure to not flee the room with her arms flailing. She makes her way out in a calm and orderly fashion, expression nigh unreadable.

Rinel has left the Commoner Benches.

Amari has left the Valardin Benches.

Auda is overheard praising Shard: Somehow, the Queen kept her temper!

2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, Barf, the Bog Dog leave, following Amari.

Violet heaves a small sigh and stands up. Almost immediately, after murmuring to Thorley, she moves over to speak quielty with Alistair.

Rowynna has left the Thrax Benches.

Fortunato is overheard praising Alaric: I cannot even fathom his ability to keep his poise.

Sophie has left the Valardin Benches.

Mirk has left the Redrain Benches.

Ouida has left the Valardin Benches.

Rinel tiredly limps over to where Duarte sits.

Alis has left the Valardin Benches.

Harlan has left the Grayson Benches.

Octavia mutters, "That ... ... ... eventful than I was expecting."

Faye has left the Commoner Benches.

3 Armed Confessors, Orva, a discreet assistant leave, following Faye.

Brassrubs his face, and collects his horn, and walks numbly towards the exit.

Standing up, Bliss walks over first to the line of sand, bending down and gathering some in her hand, before she leaves and walks over toward where Sophie is. She puts a hand on the Princess' arm, then murmurs something lowly to her.

Shard stands up from the commoner benches. She looks...well she looks pretty angry, really.

Calypso has left the Lyceum Benches.

Domonico has left the Lyceum Benches.

6 Malvici Guards, Adjutant General Vincenzo di Malvici, Domonico leave, following Calypso.

Ashe slips out among the crowds, raising the hood of her cloak as she does so.

Reese rises to her which are covered in pink. She starts to head out as well.

Ashe has left the Commoner Benches.

Reese has left the Grayson Benches.

Harlan stands with a faintly pained glance, and begins to leave, clack-clack-clacking along.

Relic leaves, following Harlan.

Helena has left the Redrain Benches.

Waldemai has left the Commoner Benches.

Willow offers a wave on Cillian's approach before flashing Arik a grin.

Octavia stays seated at the bench, collecting her thoughts and maybe daydreaming about a caravel full of laws.

Darren has left the Voices of the Realm.

Lisebet finally gets to her feet, glancing around. A quick curtsey to the king and she moves along with Harlan on the way out.

Sabella has left the Voices of the Realm.

Elizabetta, a disapproving lady-in-waiting, Lily, an aloof lady-in-waiting, 2 Grayson House Guards, Clark, an exasperated guard leave, following Sabella.

Felicia decides now's a good time to leave, too, though she does offer a salute in the direction of Alaric as she does so.

Sophie smiles and nods to Bliss, leaning in to whisper to her.

Felicia has left the Commoner Benches.

Niall RedTree, adorably awkward squire leaves, following Ouida.

Auda rises, padding after Bliss to take some sand, as well! Then, she just starts following Shard like a shadow! or a puppy.

Lisebet has left the Valardin Benches.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard, 3 Farshaw novice guards, 1 Farshaw trained guards, Bigsby leave, following Lisebet.

Vercyn rises to his feet, making certain of the safe departure of the members of his family before taking his leave himself. He does pause a moment to look up towards King Alaric for a long moment.

Shard turns and gives Auda a look that's half baffled and half irritable. Although she really hasn't moved far from the bench. She's mostly just standing there.

Harper leans over and nudges Calaudrin, saying, "Bye, Uncle Cal." Then stands up and makes her way out of the room, too. She pauses and gives the King a respectful, though awkward bow, and moves to leave.

Cillian looks to the man as he heads for the door he watches him for the moment then starts to head out.

Edain has left the Voices of the Realm.

2 Redrain Guards leaves, following Helena.

Margret has left the Valardin Benches.

Valenzo tips his flask aaaaaaallll the way back, and rises from the common benches. "Quite a show. Ought to have brought vittles." He grins to everyone else there, except Shard -- his gaze is a little more sympathetic, and he shakes his head as he strides away.

Bliss has left the Commoner Benches.

Cambria stands; she stretches. Was it that time already? So it was, so it was. She makes a leisurely amble towards the exit, clearly in no rush to beat the crowd.

Lucita rises and heads out as others of her fealty do.

Lucita has left the Lyceum Benches.

Aleksei rises slowly to his feet, his hand scrubbing over his face a bit. He looks to Shard, and then he looks to Brass, finally sidling over to the man. Who PROBABLY still has Aureth around to get him someplace safe, but apparently Aleksei is just going to tag along. Probably going in the same direction.

Ian looks down at his bottle of rum. After a moment, he braces himself on his cane and makes his way over to the commoner benches, where he sets the bottle, with the last of its contents, on the bench next to where Shard stands. He mutters something to her, then turns to go.

Edain looks to Alis and wonders why he is in trouble, but then he spies his wife and crosses to her, "Well it's good to see you. Shall we head home?"

Valenzo has left the Commoner Benches.

Perronne stands, offering Dusk a warm smile. "Interesting times? At least you should have plenty of inspiration for your paintings." Then she glances to Brass and his knot of followers, before heading out into the night air herself.

Eshra sits silently on the Valardin benches, her elbows resting on her knees, dark eyes watching those that still stand in front as the nobles around her rise to leave. It's those last moments that one does not feel as if they are still having to perform that she finds interesting to watch of the emissaries and other key noted speakers that she finds interesting.

Perronne has left the Commoner Benches.

Lou has left the Grayson Benches.

Willen leaves, following Lou.

Harper has left the Commoner Benches.

Judy, an investigative assistant, Dot, the war-wiener leave, following Harper.

Rinel shuffles out of the Assembly, stopping only to pause at Sparte and shrug apologetically. "Sorry," she whispers to the guardsman.

Sparte gives Rinel a small smile. "No you arn't."

Kael is rising from his place and he politely ducks to the side of the bench so that people do not need to squeeze by him. He's considerate, you see. He'll offer his wife his arm when she comes near, but otherwise the pair will remain until the Valardin have filed out, then he'll follow in their wake.

Considering Sophie a moment, Bliss just puts an arm on her forearm and says, "Go, I can wait a minute."

Ian has left the Thrax Benches.

Willow murmurs softly to Brass as she lingers close by. "Thank you for coming and speaking. I have a thousand questions I wish I could ask but... There was something of a consensus on the Redrain bench that you were right so it only felt appropriate to come stand with you. I imagine you have many other people waiting to demand your time. It was a surreal honor to meet you."

Victus is staying by his fellow voices of the realm. His chin rests in one hand and the other has his elbow atop the table. Everything of the evening slowly dawning on him.

"Don't it's good to see you-me mister. Alone with two babes this whole time?" Caelis loops an arm in Edain's. "You have a baby to hold this instant." She adds and tows Edain out.

Brass smiles a little dazedly at Willow as he passes. "Hopefully we can meet - again. Sometime. If I don't get exiled."

Caelis has left the Valardin Benches.

Rohm the Blackguard, Avalanche, a Snow Shepherd leave, following Caelis.

Solange rises as quietly as she entered, the warmest Whisper slipping from the Assembly without so much as a murmur.



Veronica rises and moves in Kael's wake, projecting a hostile aura to anyone who gets within arms reach of Reigna or the Marquis. She seems unbothered by the possibility that she's insulting anyone with her watchdog guard of the House's leaders.

Rinel smiles back. "I meant for causing you trouble. Shard deserved to be listened to. And that monster deserved what I said." She sighs. "I don't think I'm going to be invited back to the Thrax Estate anytime soon."

Eshra has left the Valardin Benches.

Reigna scoots off the bench and slips her arm through Kael's, her expression thoughtful. "That was... fascinating and terrifying all at the same time. But the path we need to take is clear. Shall we return home?"

Solange has left the Commoner Benches.

Tamorin, a bubbly Whisper apprentice leaves, following Solange.