500-11-01 The Imperial Debate
From Crossroads Wiki
November 11, 500
The Keeper hosts a debate in the Great Hall for his court to participate in, the topics most specifically his lack of a wife and heir, and the impending first breech of the barrier in over one hundred and fifty years.
There is a hustle and bustle as Lady Claremont enters the scene. Her eyes looking over the room for the merest spot of dirt. Then she swings in to talk to some of the staff within the room. Two long tables are set up with one perpendicular to the front and back. In the center is a podium. Her eyes are fretful before she hears her name. She turns to smile at Philomena, "Milady! I am happy to see you have arrived." She smiles warmly and walks over with a tankard of ale. She offers it to the woman. Then she lowers, "I do hope you will enjoy your time here and the debates." She glances at her father for a moment. Then she turns around to get a drink for her father, handing it to him.
"Oh, sure, he'll be here," Mena affirms to Rhyse easily. "He always seems to arrive right at the last minute, though." She beams as Isolde shows up at her side with an ale. Accepting it warmly, she smiles. "Thank you so much!" She doesn't try to delay the busy woman, though.
"Thank you, Isolde," Rhyse says, accepting the drink. He looks over to the door as Duke Lazarus and Isadora enter, and lifts his mug to them.
Isadora strolls into the hall, making the obligatory curtsy as she spots a couple higher-ups. (Her player is on strong meds tonight and will be non-coherent).
Philomena looks toward Lazarus as he arrives as well, balancing her ale as she dips into a curtsey.
Emperor Rourke walks down the steps, having come through the Hall of Providence, Asha on his arm. He murmurs aside to the woman on his arm.
"Mmm. Vincente would flirt with a mannequin in a dress shop," Asha chuckles, trailing off with a wink as she tilts her head to listen before nodding.
Vincente escorts Princess Eleanor, a grin playing at his lips as he looks about the hall.
Duke Lazarus bows to those he encounters, making certain he is prompt this night, even though he looks little rested. In fact, he's looking pretty fatigued.
As the various members of the Imperial family arrives, Philomena turns and curtsies deeply, easily balancing the tankard in her hand as she does so.
Isolde hands drinks off as people arrive. Though she smiles in greeting to them and then lowers. Her body then springs into the other direction. She walks to make sure everything is perfectly arranged. Her eyes looking around the area as she studies who is arriving. Her smile warm though her eyes are lowered a bit.
Vincente quips as he sweeps a bow towards the Emperor, "I would, it's true! It does take practice to make perfection like me." He laughs as he straightens.
Emperor Rourke walks toward the grouping, offering nods to those who offer their respects. He chuckles at Asha's comment. "I could say something totally crude, but... my cousin is here now so I shall refrain."
Princess Eleanor laughs as she overhears Asha's remark, considering that she entered on Vincente's arm. "I will have to be mindful of that, cousin," she says, amused.
Isadora is just making her way in to the Great Hall, towards Lazarus. "Your Grace. Still not getting any rest? Shame on her," she grins, offering a wink, then noting behind her the arrival of the Imperial family with a low curtsy.
Duke Rhyse bends to bow for the incoming royals, from where he stands near Philomena.
Asha looks over her shoulder at Vincente's arrival, the faint flush that follows /mostly/ hidden by bruises, at least on one side of her face. It's soon replaced with an easy grin, though, as she steps back from the emperor a step to offer a bow to the princess. "And even the mannequin would be flattered, of course," she recovers.
A snicker slips from Rourke's lips, his words soft and low to Asha.
Vincente accepts a drink from Isolde with a wink and then offers it to Eleanor. "Shall I escort you to a seat, Cousin?"
Isolde walks over toward the Imperial types and lowers. She casts a warm affectionate smile towards Vincente when he winks. However, her movements bring her closer to the Emperor as she lowers her voice.
"Please," Eleanor says. "Then you'll be free to defend your title."
Asha's elbow gets halfway towards the Emperor's ribs before she catches herself, pressing her lips together against a smirk.
Rourke playfully gives a huffing sound before releasing Asha to give the Mistress of Revels his attention. "Lady Isolde. Good evening."
Philomena gives Rhyse a smile. "Well, I'm going to sit down to enjoy the debates. Are you going to bring up a topic, Your Grace?"
Isolde mutters to Emperor Rourke, "I was... a... then you... there..... I'll be... to tell..."
Phoebe descends the stairwell with her brother, conversing with him in quiet, amiable tones. When they reach the main floor, she pauses to offer a stately curtsy, bowing her head respectfully to dukes and Emperor.
Vincente escorts Eleanor towards a seat, offering a grin to everyone he passes. He mutters to Princess Eleanor, "So,... that... the... There's... going... marry..."
Emperor Rourke tips his head to Isolde, listening. Amusement laces the curves of his lips and he answers on a soft note.
Emperor Rourke mutters to Isolde, "... your capable... my Mistress of..."
Isolde lowers very elegantly to the ground to Rourke. Though she gives a large smile towards Asha as she listens.
Asha slips back from the emperor's side as Isolde approaches, nodding to the other woman with an amiable smile before stepping back to take a look around at those gathered.
Princess Eleanor mutters to Vincente, "That's what... heard... i... it. I would... love... niece... nephew..."
Isolde smiles warmly, "That is just perfect, Keeper."
Phoenix halts with his sister, dipping into a bow for the assembled higher nobility. He smiles towards his littler sister as he straightens. "Shall we sit?" he asks of Phoebe.
Vincente beams at Eleanor. "Me too," he agrees. "Me too." He finds as oft, velvet loveseat for Eleanor's comfort.
Philomena gives her siblings a smile and a wave with her free hand. In the other, ale.
Duke Lazarus nods to more and bows to those who matter to him.
Phoebe glances over at Eleanor at her quiet words, lips curving in an approving smile. She then nods to Mena and starts toward her with Phoenix. "Yes."
Isolde nods to one of the staff and makes sure everyone has a drink or is offered one of their choosing.
Rourke's gaze moves over those who are making their way in, his gaze resting a moment on Philomena who receives a warm smile. He does slant a look in his sister's direction as he overhears some of her remark.
Asha walks the perimeter of the room for a moment, smile faint as she observes, looking more likely to find a wall to hold up than a seat.
Princess Eleanor just blushes and sends Rourke an apologetic smile.
Isadora moves away from Lazarus, selecting a seat not so far from where she was standing.
Phoenix nods towards his elder sister, guiding her towards a seat.
Philomena gives a wave to the Emperor as she catches his gaze, smiling in return.
Emperor Rourke tosses Mena a wink as he gives it a couple more minutes for the stragglers to make their way into the great hall.
Duke Lazarus looks to the others, then he simply looks to where he would be seated this evening.
Phoebe offers Lazarus a smile as she and her brother find a seat near Mena.
Isolde starts to walk away from the Emperor and pauses to lower her voice.
Isolde mutters to Emperor Rourke, "... yadda yadda..."
Emperor Rourke blinks at Isolde, "Well... there goes the main portion of my speech."
Philomena takes a seat near her siblings, and a drink of her ale.
Isolde tosses a bright smile towards Rourke, "I'm sure you'll figure something out..."
Isolde moves to walk through the crowd for the moment.
Rourke crosses to table 9, claiming it as the main table for observation. He stand at the chair brought in for him, clearing his throat as he waits to gain the attention of those gathered.
Asha eventually finds herself a place to hold up the wall, a nice, shaded corner where she can watch.
Philomena's gaze does turn to rest on the Emperor as he clears his throat for attention.
The Keeper lifts his voice, giving the usual greetings. "Thank you all for attending this event. Our Mistress of Revels has worked long and hard to pull this together along with many events she is hostessing." He offers a bow of his head to wherever Isolde has gotten off to. "We thank her personally for her continued efforts on Our behalf and the behalf of Our court and citizens." He pauses to caim a breath then continues, "And with that... the debate opens and I had the floor to Lady Isolde for an explanation of the rules of the Debate."
Phoebe gives the floor her attention as the rules are about to be announced.
Isadora tips her head in engrossment.
Philomena nods, then looks toward Isolde, taking another drink from her tankard. Mmmm. Ale.
A tip of his head is given to a servant as a tankard arrives and is placed at the right hand of the Keeper. He settles back, relaxing and curious to see how this goes.
There is a long moment where Isolde seriously consideres running for the door. However, she gives a bright cordial smile, "We must also thank our Emperor for taking time out to hear our thoughts on the matters that will be presented." She lifts her glass to that. A moment lingers as she gives the respectful time to toast the Emperor. "As for the rules of the debate they are rather simple. We only have one or two isle at this time that wishes to present a topic." Her eyes flow over to her father and then Lazarus. Then she turns back around to the others. "It will be given with an opening debate of their side on the matter. From there the floor is open. I ask for all chaos not to be taken over.. a raise of hands. You may support pro or con and you may freely speak." She glances back towards Rourke to that last part and back around to those assembled. "You will have two minutes to present your belief." Which is two poses. "Then they will be tallied by the Emperor and also those of you which wish to have a vote. You may let me know personally as I will be walking around." You may whisper, page, mutter, etc. "At the end we will total all of them. The main reason is just to talk of the issues around the isle. When all the leaders of the isle have listed their topics .. the floor will be open. A raise of hand and you may support that." She glances at a podium. "You may either offer topic from your place by standing up or by walking to the podium in the direct center of the room." As she finishes she drops low, "We will start in alphabetical order of the isles. May the speaker of Draught step forward to give first topic?" She steps back away and moves to make sure all drinks are filled.. with extras in the wings by Rourke's seat.
Duke Lazarus glances at Phoebe and then switches his attention to the lady in charge and her long ass list of rules.
Vincente does toast the Emperor at the right moment, a grin cast towards Rourke before he downs a swallow and lounges back in his chair, eyes dancing with anticipation.
Isadora signals for a mug, but when it arrives, it sits untouched before her, though she does lift it in toast briefly.
Rourke inclines his head, his own gaze lingering on Isolde as she does clarify the rules for the debate, offering a smile in her direction at her toast. He then gives Rhyse his full attention.
Philomena lifts her tankard as well at the right time. Her gaze then goes to Rhyse.
Duke Rhyse has to go first? He rises when Isolde indicates him and moves to the front of the room, and the podium. "Your Majesty," he says, bowing towards the Emperor. "Assembled guests. Though the topic that I introduce this evening has already been talked nearly to death, it is a topic of such importance - in the eyes of the people of Draught - that I must bring it up again."
Emperor Rourke's lashes sweep down to veil his eyes, the faintest touch of amusement quirking at the corners of his mouth as he tries not to laugh.
Isadora reaches for her tankard ay Rhyse's proposed topic, taking a loooong swallow. Okay, she's ready.
Emperor Rourke glances at Isolde as she passes then motions for three drinks to be brought to his table... he quietly lines them up.
Asha looks towards the ceiling, counting beams, no doubt.
Princess Eleanor starts to look a little worried, glancing over at Rourke as he orders several drinks.
Vincente's lips spread in a huge, happy grin.
Rhyse continues after a moment. "What is the first duty of any noble of the Empire?" he asks, rhetorically. "To defend the Keeper. Without the Keeper, we would all be lost - we would be little more than food for demons. Yet is not the Keeper /also/ a noble of the Empire? His duty is even more important - to defend and continue the /line/ of the Keeper." He places one hand on the side of the podium, leaning slightly forward. "The Emperor /must/ marry, and present the Empire with heirs to his office." On the word 'must', he brings his fist down firmly on the podium.
Isolde moves about the room, one person to the other making sure that everyone has a drink. She pauses to hear her father speak and then glances around the room.
Phoebe inclines her head at the duke's statement, quietly affirming her own sentiments with a, "Hear hear."
Philomena does keep her gaze mainly on Rhyse and his adamant stance on the subject of the Keeper's marital state. There is a brief glance to said Keeper, her lips quirking slightly at the sight of his line of drinks.
Duke Rhyse continues quickly. "The nobles of the Empire understand that our Keeper is young. We understand that he is a slave to his office, without the freedom given to the least of his own subjects. Nonetheless, our sympathy for his plight does not excuse him of that responsibility. Other men - lesser men - may make the choice to delay marriage, even indefinitely. The Emperor cannot." At that, he inclines his head, and then resumes his seat.
Asha considers for a moment, then raises her hand, pushing up off the wall.
Isolde smiles brightly towards that as she looks over at Asha and nods her head, "Lady Heiress.. the floor is yours first."
Rourke's expression is one of silent contemplation. He wraps his fingers around the glass of brandy, tipping it to his lips without comment. At Asha's movement, his attention shifts to her.
Firenza breezes into the great hall, tankard in hand as if it were a permanent appendage. She smiles brilliantly at those collected and oozes into a curtsy. "Gentles, lords, dukes, and Keeperrr."
Duke Lazarus looks to the doorway and nods to Firenza.
Vincente does give a couple of moments of applause at Rhyse's conclusion. His hands then fold and settle in his lap, attention going towards Asha.
A cant of Rourke’s head is given to Firenza's entry though he is quick to return his gaze to Asha as she takes a stance.
Philomena's spine stiffens at that voice behind her. But she keeps her attention on the debate.
Isolde also notes suddenly where all of Firenza's children are and not to be caught too close least her own marriage is planned. She does smile and lower to the dowenger Baroness, "Free drinks when you sit, Baroness."
Princess Eleanor lifts a hand and waves a servant over, holding a quick murmured conversation with him.
Asha pushes a hand over her hair, twisting a brief, ingenuous smile before bowing to the Duke. "Hear, hear, your grace," she drawls, though there's a note of dry humor in the words. "Let us make of our Keeper nothing more than a stallion at stud. Heirs are of far more importance than the maturity, resources, or family support to raise them to be proper rulers, after all. Let us make sure there is a babe in arms, settle for immediate security rather than what is best in the long run. Bring in the women of the empire!" she gestures grandly. "Line them up outside his bedroom and trot them through. The more we line up, the better the chances of an heir!" She trails of then, pausing for effect, though the wry cast of her smile implies she's more to say.
Firenza rises and smooths the front of her gown, which looks as if she might have slept in it, and starts over toward the general audience. She delivers Lazarus a flirty smile, offering in a stage whisper, "You look so handsome, dear duke." She boldly steps over a few seated nobles (and perhaps on a couple) to get as close to her family as possible and sit there. Eeny meanie miney moe, she lands somewhere near Mena!
Vincente's lips quirk at the soft whisper of the Princess to the servant, though his gaze remains upon Asha.
Ebony comes in from the south hallway.
Phoebe's brow rises at Asha's words.
Ebony slips in from the sout hall, sticking close to the wall. She moves along it, keeping out of the way.
Duke Rhyse's brow rises as Phoebe's does, actually staring at Asha with blatant disbelief.
Rourke refrains from offering a neigh, instead sipping at his drink and observing the expressions of those his eyes light upon.
isadora watches Asha, interest lighting in her eyes at the Lady's words, and vague approval.
Oh, crap. Mena visibly winces when her mother sits nearby, but she still doesn't look the woman's way. Nope. Gaze forward, she stares at Asha with determination.
Isolde moves to supply Firenza with a new drink, "A special drink just for you. I do hope you adore it, Baroness. I have set aside a whole keg of it for your use only." She winks a bit and then smiles to listen to those that are speaking. She is on the move again.
Phoebe suggests to the people nearby, "Perhaps the Lady Asha grows weary of guarding to suggest that Emperor stave off having an heir. Without such security, we could be wiped out in a moment's notice, and she need not worry her pretty little head."
Asha waits for reactions, then draws her breath to continue, mien more serious. "Balance, perhaps, is the wiser course," she concludes with a small smile. "Yes, the Empire needs an heir. But there is more to raising heirs than conceiving them. There is the care and experience that goes into raising them to be /good/ rulers after their parents. There is the bond of a family, which is quite possibly the most important support someone in the Keeper's position can have. And the bond between mother and father to be observed by a child, a first lesson in a ruler's relations to their people. Give the emperor time. Rushing such things without proper preparation and understanding can only result in disaster in the long run." Sweeping a bow, she turns to regain her place on the wall.
Duke Rhyse shakes his head as Asha concludes, his disagreement plain on his face.
Emperor Rourke's gaze flicks to Phoebe at her words, signaling that she may make her argument after Asha's own is complete.
Vincente actually has a similar expression to Rhyse, though perhaps reluctantly so. He glances about the room to see who is to be next, his hand fidgeting with his wine glass.
Phoebe catches the Emperor's gaze and raises her hand with a polite smile.
Princess Eleanor has no expression. She merely watches those who are presenting their opinions, her lips pressed tightly together.
Isolde smiles towards Asha as she looks around, "Again, if there is to be comment, please raise your hand for your turn." She gives a sheepish smile, "It helps me keep track of the wonderful words spoken." She smiles at Phoebe, "Lady Phoebe, I defer the floor to you?"
Firenza gives Mena a fond smile. "You look so lovely, my dear. Have you tried wearing pink?" She's all about the debate, apparently. At the offer of booze, her attention snaps to Isolde and she nods. "I'm honored. THank you, my lady. I cannot wait to sample it." Her tankard is lifted in toast and bested with a wink.
Asha takes up her stance against the wall, seemingly amused now that she's gone and poked a stick into the anthill.
Isolde continues her walk around as people talk and prepare to talk.
Philomena closes her eyes for a short moment, then does look at her Mother, smiling tightly. "I am wearing pink," she murmurs, hopefully low enough that only people near to her could hear it.
Isadora rises discreetly, maneuvering her position from the table to come to the side of Asha.
Duke Lazarus looks to Firenza and smiles "If you would please sit with me, Madam and watch the debate.."
Isolde refills the Emperor's drinks, discreetly.
Phoebe smoothly ascends to her feet and approaches the podium. Her gaze travels over those in attendance before settling upon Asha for a lingering a moment. "The press for immediacy is not indicative of less than appropriate breeding or match for His Majesty. At present, the we many fine warriors guarding a realm without a wall. It just takes one arrow, one posion, one pneumonia, one horseback riding incident, or one bee sting and allergic reaction to end not just one life -- but this realm completely. I am surprised that the female in charge of our defense would suggest it safer to leave the realm without a wall than to build one now with the fine, unmatched material we have available at this time."
Duke Rhyse's expression shifts from disagreement to total agreement, and he nods his head repeatedly, smiling.
Emperor Rourke's gaze does flick over each and every single lady (and not so single lady) in the room.
"Ah, personal attacks," Asha laughs with a smirk in Phoebe's direction. "Ever the refuge of the poorer argument." The words are softened with a wink, perhaps an indicator of agreement, perhaps not.
Firenza glances down at her daughter, her eyes slitting as she stares at Mena's dress. She smiles from one side of her face. "Oh, you are. You look lovelier, I must say." Male voice, however, attracts her attention and smile more completely and she ignores her daughter in favor of the very single duke. "Oh, I would love to." Popping up from her seat, she moves closer to the Duke and slides into a chair near him, almost landing half on him.
Vincente tips his head towards Phoebe, his own reluctant agreement not schooled from his features.
Philomena looks toward Lazarus with a grateful expression, letting out a short breath of relief when her mother moves off. The man deserves a medal for jumping on that grenade. Mena's attention does turn back to the ongoing debate, then, now able to really pay attention again.
Phoebe offers Asha a slow smile before addressing the Emperor with her gaze. "We understand that at such an age you harbor so much responsibility on your shoulders, Majesty. And we know that the safety and security of your people is no small burden and have faith that you will do all that you can to see that we are delivered from fear and from threat because we have seen wisdom in the currents of your ancestry and in the few years of your rule." She curtsies deeply and then departs from the podium.
Duke Rhyse lifts his hands to applaud for Phoebe, actually rising from his seat to honor her as she takes hers.
Vincente's hands meet for a couple of brief clappings for the words of Phoebe Forester.
Rourke tips his head to Phoebe, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. The smile is a gracious one to the end of her argument.
Isadora raises her hand politely after Phoebe finishes her argument.
Duke Lazarus smiles at Phoebe, then turns to the lady who has joined him and whispers to her.
Firenza catches sight that her daughter just sat down and some peripheral clapping and manages a brief golf clap for her daughter though her full attention is in Lazarus's lap. And I do mean his lap. "You always dress so well, Your Grace. Why, I remember your father was a sharp dresser too."
Isolde turns to look around. Her eyes falling on Isadora. She smiles towards the Lady, "Lady Isadora.. the floor is yours." She moves a bit out of the way.
Phoebe inclines her head graciously at the applause as she reclaims her seat near Phoenix.
Duke Rhyse resumes his seat to listen to the presentation of Isadora.
"I would only point out," Isadora replies, not moving to the podium but lifting her voice so that all might hear with clarity, "that, even if the Emperor were to wed and bare children right away, it is possible his wife might only bare female offspring. Or, if a male is born from a rushed union, heirs have been known, in the past, to be unable to control the currents and unable to hold the Gateway. A swift union holds little surety, only placates those who feel a child is indicative of our strength as a whole."
Firenza exchanges quiet words with the Duke and then signals a servant for a refill on her tankard, wanting to test that imperial keg that was promised.
And again Duke Rhyse shakes his head in disagreement, a frown appearing on his face.
Rourke lifts his glass, casually swirling the contents as he ponders the words spoken.
Vincente reaches for his goblet.
Isadora offers, after a moment, "I neither agree, nor disagree with the argument, only point out those facts." She raises both hands, palms up, surrendering the floor readily.
Ebony tilts her head as she listens to the lady's words, eyes narrowing slightly on the woman in question. She drums her fingers on her leg, pacing along the wall a few more steps.
Isolde takes one of the passing goblets and sipping from it as she walks around the room. She stops a drink going to Firenza, "No.. the special Imperial keg. Don't give her that swill. She knows the best there is." A bright smile given towards Firenza before she turns to see if their are other hands that are lifted. She then moves towards Ebony and offers her a drink.
Duke Phineas enters the hall with his tall dogs flanking him. His eyes immediately find the Emperor and he bows, before he looks about for a seat.
Duke Rhyse raises his hand again, though he's uncertain if someone can go twice or not.
Phoebe's gaze travels to Isadora and she leans towards Phoenix to mutter. She mutters to Phoenix, "... us which females... bear... and strong... at... Does waiting a decade... will... the... time our... chopping... the emperor wants... the..."
Isolde turns her attention towards Rourke for approval or denial of Rhyse's request.
Phoebe rises as her brother enters and offers a stately curtsy.
Firenza smiles approvingly up at Isolde. "You are /such/ a dear." She motions towards Phoenix. "Have you met my son, Lord Phoenix yet? He's single you know."
Rourke's own gaze moves along those gathered, noting no others seem to be wanting to take a stance. He finally nods to Rhyse, giving him the opportunity to hopefully draw the subject to a close.
Philomena rises as well to curtsey to the arriving Duke-brother.
Asha holds her perch against the wall, nodding slightly to Isadora's addition. Briefly, her lips twitch towards a smirk, as though considering reiterating her false argument, before she instead takes a drink.
Firenza sees Phineas enters and points him out to Lazarus -- as if the man doesn't already know, "That's my son, the /Duke/."
Emperor Rourke's gaze does move to Asha who will of course have a chance to answer any additional words if she chooses.
Duke Lazarus looks to Firenza, smiling. "Perhaps we will hold a small dinner party for your family at my home so I may meet all your family at once."
Phoenix shifts slightly in his seat at his mother's interest in his direction, not looking towards her.
Isolde pauses towards Firenza to that. Oh Providence. Her features find her most beautiful smile, "Truly? I would think one of your breeding being married already. I had not truly known." Of course she knew. "Perhaps we shall dine when I arrive back from Draught. I am certain I shall enjoy meeting everyone." She places a hand pats Firenza's shoulder a bit as she turns her eyes towards her Daddy, "Duke Claremont, you have the floor."
Firenza agrees, "That would be perfect, Your Grace." She then smiles brilliantly at Isolde. "Oh darling, we simply must. There is so much to discuss."
Phoebe frowns at her mother and then leans in to murmur to Phoenix.
Duke Phineas waves idly towards Firenza and goes to take a seat, a hand on the collar of each of his doggies.
Philomena smiles at the dogs as she retakes her seat, trying to give the two animals a little wave if she can catch their attention.
Isolde curves a beautiful smile towards Firenza. "Of course.. I shall see if there is anything on Draught soil that may assist you." Like maybe hangover-b-gone. She casts a smile towards Phoenix, though that one is more of understanding. She moves a bit to pat the Princess on the shoulder as she lowers her voice a bit towards someone near the Princess.
Duke Rhyse rises when Rourke signals his permission, and approaches the podium one last time. "This is not simply about getting married and having a child," he says. "This is about /duty/. I applaud your positions, ladies, but it is the position of wishful dreamers, and not of leaders. We have one Keeper. His power is passed through the bloodline to his legitimate male heir. Until the Emperor has one, we are vulnerable. Many noble marriages are made with less reason - for money, position, land ... but to insinuate that marrying for duty will somehow result in an offspring incapable of fulfilling his function is illogical at best. I assure you that the Emperor would not hesitate to tell any one of us ..." He indicates himself, and the other Dukes in the room ... "To produce an heir and secure our bloodline. We will do no less."
An approving smile crosses Phoebe's lips and she nods in agreement. "Hear hear."
Firenza watches Isolde with interest and then twists in her chair to study Phoenix. "You should come sit with us, Phoenix. She's very pretty and verrrry single. Plus, I've seen her parents." She adds with approval and a conspiratory whisper everyone can hear, "Good breeding."
Duke Phineas gives his own call of, "Hear him!" to the proclamation of Rhyse.
Probably in a bid to escape his mother, Phoenix lifts his hand as if he'd add something to the ongoing debate.
Rourke sips his drink, refraining from remarking on either the argument or his marriage commands though, Lazarus might get a lingering look.
Philomena gives Phoenix a sympathetic glance.
Duke Rhyse does take his seat again after he's finished speaking.
Ebony raises her hand to lightly applaud, turning to pace the other way along the wall.
Isolde nods towards Vincente's comment as she looks at her father to see if he is done speaking. Then she offers, "Lord Caprios has the floor and after him.." Her eyes find Phoenix. "Lord Phoenix may have the floor."
Firenza frowns when Phoenix applies his hand to the debate.
Phoebe applauds the Duke when he leaves the podium. "Well stated."
Duke Rhyse lifts a hand to wave thanks to all of those who applaud him, a politician's smile on his lips.
Philomena hasn't applauded anything herself. But, she does have a tankard of ale in her hand.
Asha crosses her arms loosely over her chest, shaking her head to the argument, though a small smile remains.
Firenza's voice drips with sugar as she lays on the flattery toward Rhyse, "That was sooo well-spoken, Your Grace. Your words are just amazing. I knew you were good with that tongue of yours. Listen, you and I should really sit and discuss Lady Isolde's future. I think you and I could come to a good agreeeement." She ends with a courtly smile that lends some brief view of what she may have been like in beauty and grace three decades earlier.
Vincente rises and walks to the center of the room, a solemn quality settling upon his countenance. He turns slowly to meet the eyes of anyone in the room who will meet his, sobriety rarely found in him surfacing. When he begins speaking, his words are not particularly loud, and yet the rich orator's tones carry to the far corners of the room with passion and persuasion.
"In the year one hundred and two after the creation of the Gateway that binds the demons to the Abyss," Vincente begins, "Michael Caprios, the younger brother of the man who should have been Emperor but died in his youth, came to the throne at twenty one. His power was weak, many times the currents failing completely. This kingdom suffered, not just in the abstract, but in the death of citizens of this Empire because of the weakness of a Keeper who had to take the throne too young." He draws a breath, his monologue continuing and gaining slightly in volume. "In the year one hundred and fifty three, a hunting accident took the lives of the Emperor and his second-born son, Prince Richard. Emperor Sebastian claimed the throne and the title, and although it was not what any would have wished, he wed a girl two months later because he and the nobles of this realm knew that it was a vulnerable time." Another slow, metered breath, and Vincente speaks, "In the year two hundred and twenty seven, Emperor Sebastian died while sparring and the -entire- -city- of Crossroads was left in ruins from demon attacks, citizens -slaughtered- until the streets ran red with blood. People like the ones we see every day here in the castle, or out in the market. The Gateway was only held by some miraculous willpower, and the Keeper was married immediately to produce an heir."
Duke Lazarus touches Firenza's hand and smiles. "Those of your land speak well and with clarity. It will be a pleasure to have them at table with me."
Isolde moves to refill glasses and deposit three more on Rourke's table in the midst of doing so. She gives him a warm smile. She turns her eyes towards Philomena for a bit and then she simply walks forward more to check on others. She pauses by Phoenix and lowers, "Forgive me, Lordship. It was just that Lord Vincente asked first." Her eys move towards Firenza as she speaks of her father's tongue... ew.. ew.. ew. Then she smiles a bit as the blush warms her cheeks. Luckily, she's saved by Vincente talking.
Rhyse inclines his head to Firenza, murmuring quietly to her before turning to listen to Vincente. His expression shows approval of the young noble's words.
Phoebe studies Vincente as he speaks, silent.
"Each of these eras marked uncertainty, societal problems, struggles within the imperial family. In each of these eras, the Keeper moved quickly to secure an heir because it was clearly obvious that in such times, the life of the Keeper is in even more danger than normal." Vincente's gaze sweeps the room again before settling upon Rourke directly. "And because of those moves, in all these times, at least the Empire had a keeper. Now, luck has preserved the life of the Emperor in situations already, but the life of every man, woman, and child in this kingdom all rides upon that continued luck. Fate forgive me for saying this, but even if there is no love, even if the family support is not perfect, even if the timing is not ideal... if there is life, those are all issues that can be -fixed-. Should tragedy strike, every last person alive here in this room, on this isle, in -this- -Empire- will either be dead or enslaved for the brutal play of some of the cruelest creatures ever to exist. If wedding and bedding a woman will help defend against that, then nothing in all of this Empire should stand between her Keeper and the chance to do so as fast as possible, especially since we all know that sons are not guaranteed." Falling silent, he sweeps into a low, deep bow for the Emperor before returning to his seat.
Duke Rhyse starts to applaud immediately, looking on Vincente with respect at the man's eloquence.
Phoenix subtly lowers his hand. /You/ come after that.
Phoebe joins the applause with a slow smile.
Phoebe mutters to Phoenix.
Asha twists a faint smile at Vincente, though the wry cast makes it clear it's more for the man than the argument.
Phineas is silent for long seconds before he tips his head towards Vincente and begins to applaud, slowly at first and more heavily in a few moments.
Ebony raises her hands to applaud once more, inclining her head, actually ceasing her pacing to listen.
Isadora listens silently with the rest, her face remaining passive.
Firenza glances up from her whispering at the mention of blood in the streets, interested for a moment, before replying to Rhyse. "Oh? Then I shall speak to her." She sits back down in her seat and smiles at Lazarus. "We would love to dine at your table, Your Grace. Your hospitality is quite memorable." She giggles some at a memory, reaffirming, "Most memorable."
Philomena's gaze slips toward the Keeper for a moment before she looks around her and the expression the features of those nearby hold.
Isolde walks closer to the podium. She casts a sorrowful smile towards the Lord Caprios. She looks towards Lord Phoenix now, "The floor is your, Milordship.." She then moves away to perhaps drop soft comments.
The fine brandy Rourke drinks passes his lips, his gaze on his cousin as he speaks. His expression continues to remain muted as applause is given to the speaker.
Duke Lazarus nods and whispers to the woman, but he smiles at the words of the Emperor's cousin.
Rurke turns to Phoenix now. He's getting good at keeping an utterly neutral expression.
Firenza ooohs with excitement at something Lazarus says.
A slight frown works at the corners of Phoenix's expression. He put his hand down! But, so called, he gathers himself and moves towards the podium, bowing some towards the Keeper. "I think Lord Caprios really put it better then I would," he states, nodding towards Vincente. "And really, why is this even a debated topic? Who's going to argue against a more or less assured future? I'd really challenge anyone in this chamber to give a /good/ reason why this shouldn't already be a done deal." He shrugs, looking rather uncomfortable with the spotlight. He really did put down his hand. "Um, that's all. Thanks." He makes a bow, and a retreat to his seat, as hastily as he might, without being impolite.
Asha raises her hand again. Why? Because who doesn't like a good, two-sided argument?
Phineas applauds for his sibling. "A done deal indeed," he says firmly.
A faint smirk touches Isadora's lips as Asha's hand goes up.
Vincente whispers something to Eleanor and rises, stepping back two paces to bow towards the throne before he withdraws.
Phoebe's lips curve as she watches Phoenix.
Emperor Rourke chuckles at Phoenix and the hard follow. He does note Asha, offering a nod and, "Lady Asha will end this topic I believe."
Firenza considers something and then raises her hand.
Isolde gives a warm smile towards Phoenix as she moves towards him. Her eyes search the crowd, "Lady Heiress.. the floor is yours." She pauses and glance along the others. She watches Vincente with a pained expression that is immediately schooled. She gives a nod towards the Emperor.
Firenza's fingers dance in the air to make sure Isolde sees that her hand is up as well.
Murdock slips in and finds a place where he can be out of the way and listen,
Isolde turns her eyes towards Rourke and then Firenza's fingers. Her brow lifts in question.
Firenza smiles at Isolde and mentions, "I want to be next."
Phoebe pales when she sees her mother's hand in the air and she leans closer to her mother to whisper something quietly from behind her teeth.
Phineas glances towards Firenza's lifting hand, dark eyes narrowing on his maternal parental unit.
Emperor Rourke's slips quirk and he nods, "Allow the Lady Firenza to speak..." He's just plain curious.
Asha steps forward, that same amused smile in place. "Very well," she concedes with a nod. "None of us can argue that the empire is safer with an heir. But if we are so afraid, if we are so desperate, then why draw the line at forcing a man to marry?" She arches a brow, walking a circle around the room. "Speaking of Emperor Sebastian. How many years before there was a male heir? Twenty-two? Would all those who argue for the emperor's immediate marriage be content if it took him twenty-two years to produce a male heir?" She watches a moment, then shrugs one shoulder nonchalantly. "Since it's the safety of the empire at stake, I doubt it. Then perhaps we'll force him to abandon the wife we forced him to take, to claim another. Or perhaps we'll all force our choices of mistress on him, in hopes of gaining influence. Scheming between women for influence with a powerful man is always perfectly safe for the man, after all." She pauses once more, for effect, then shakes her head. "We must draw the line on what is acceptable somewhere. We wish stability. But stability doesn't come on shaky foundations and hastily made matches." At that, she surrenders the floor, bowing once more and moving back to the wall.
Philomena glances at Rourke with some disbelief as he allows her mother to speak. Providence help us all.
Isolde pauses from her talk with Phoenix and then she smiles warmly towards Firenza, "Very well, Baroness Firenza is to speak after the Lady Heiress.. then the debate is closed." See Firenza even gets the last word. She gives a beautiful smile.
Rourke tips his head to Asha's words before turning to listen to Firenza's remarks.
Phoebe's brow rises as Asha speaks.
Phoenix nods his head quietly to Isolde, a faint smile granted her, before he resumes his seat beside Phoebe.
Philomena regard slowly moves to Firenza with a definite wariness to her expression.
Isadora looks to Firenza with curiosity, and a mild light of humored foreboding in her eyes.
Isolde gives a warm smile towards Firenza as she refills her drink. She glances around the area a bit as she studies the others.
Firenza golf claps for Asha since it seems the appropriate time to applaud and detaches herself from her chair. Tankard still in hand, she half-staggers up to the podium and latches onto it -- likely more for horizontal support than anything else -- and aims a smile at the room. "Esteemed nobles..." To the Emperor, she offers fondly, "Majesty. You have to marry eventually. And marriages are rarely happy so holding out for the right one is really just going to make you more disappointed in the end. " She pauses to observe, "Your father was so handsome, like you. Your children will be strong, as you are. Why don't you let your people present to you the five best ladies in the realm -- one from each duchy and one from the Gateway and you decide from then." To Asha she points out, "Marriage is contract, darling. Not a perpetual tryst. All we have to go on are ancestry and present from to determine the future heirs. Besides..." She winks at Rourke. "If you don't like your first wife, you can always have a second. Accidents do happen." She sketches a curtsy with more hip than dip. "Thank you, love."
Phineas lowers his head a bit to rub his forehead.
Philomena just closes her eyes again for a long moment.
Rourke's brows lift and he can't help but grin at the drunken lady, "A viable option that did rather end up with a pained jaw..." He rubs at said jaw, casting an amused look at Lazarus.
Isadora laughs lightly, shaking her dark head, gaze landing from Rourke to Lazarus.
The Keeper continues to hold his laughter, "I do think this topic is ended on such a fine note."
Ebony blinks, stopping her pacing to stare at Firenza. And leans back against the wall she was moving about by. Not a movement for several long moments before she laughs and raises her hands to applaud this latest speaker.
Phoebe's eyes widen and she turns her face toward her brother, muttering, "Dear Providence, she did not just say that..."
Duke Lazarus looks straight ahead and puts a tiny smile upon his face.
Asha chuckles, though likely more at the reactions of the rest of the Forester's than the words themselves.
Phineas sighs, not looking up as he comments towards Phoebe, "Trust mother to speak the truths you're not supposed to."
Isolde starts thinking of which woman to offer from Draught. Maybe she can dress Dorian up.. he's a good kid. She takes the floor and looks towards Duke Phineas. "Well we thank Draught for their topic at hand. Your Grace, would Green Fields wish to enter a topic?"
Firenza stumblewalks back over to her seat by Lazarus and sits down beside him, leg touching his.
Duke Lazarus looks to her. "Well spoken. It is a compromise I don't think anyone else could have suggested as eloquently. I know where your daughter comes by her talent."
Phineas makes a slightly strangled sound before he lifts his features and gazes at Isolde. "Somehow," he drawls dryly, "I think that would be hard to follow, and was the topic that my Lady Wife and I were going to speak on, as well. As it stands, Lady Isolde, I think that the Fields has said quite enough tonight."
Isolde nods her head and turns her eyes towards Asha, "Lady Heiress, as your father is seeing to your isle. Is there a topic that Guardians wishes to offer for debate?"
Firenza tips her tankard back and drains it and then offers it to a servant for moremoremore, sending Lazarus a smile. "You think me eloquent? I do give good lip service." She nods in agreement. "You must play for me again."
Philomena presses her lips together with some hidden amusement at Phineas' answer to Isolde.
Asha seems to consider for a moment, then shakes her head, offering a small smile to Isolde. "No, Lady Isolde," she chuckles, taking a look around the room. "Even a Guardian knows better than to start a fight when /this/ heavily outnumbered," she jokes.
Phineas goes back to rubbing his forehead, a hand falling to Boris's side. Boris licks Phineas's hand, maybe in consolation.
Isolde beams a bright smile back, "Yes it would be a pity to have another slaying of the beast. I have seen the Guardians in action. I would not wish to take them on, even if outnumbered." She turns her attention towards Lazarus, "Your Grace, would Mists wish to state a topic?"
Phoebe manages to turn her face back toward the debate, though not without shooting her mother a withering a glance.
Duke Lazarus stands. "It is not a question of debate, but askance of information that I would bring up, if I may be allowed?"
Emperor Rourke's gaze remains on Firenza before he turns it briefly to Mena, sending her a wink before he looks to Lazarus, noting that the main topic seems to have been put out there. He nods, "Let us see if such information forms into a debate."
Isolde nods her head in deferment, "The floor is yours, Your Grace." She pauses and adds softly, "As long as it is not about marriage for the Emperor." She moves to walk around. Wanderlust. Draught is so close and yet so far.
Phoebe tilts her head some, watching the Duke of Mists.
Duke Lazarus says, "I was curious about your University and how it progresses? Are the books necessary for the library being gathered fast enough? What will your criteria for those who will teach? I am certain you wish only the best of the best."
Rourke smiles faintly, "Ahhh... indeed a hot topic." His gaze finds Duke Phineas briefly before he offers, "The University is coming together, Your Grace. Princess Eleanor is acting as the coordinator for the effort."
Phineas's eyes settle upon the Emperor, a respectful query put forth of, "And are you still committed to the students of it being ones that each ducal house personally chooses and sends, Emperor?"
Philomena finishes off the ale in her tankard as the discussion switches topics. Her gaze moves between all of those that currently speak.
Isolde finds a moment to sip her drink as she relaxes. Her eyes move around the area and frown as whom she's looking for isn't there. Then she smiles warmly watching.
Emperor Rourke nods to Phineas, "Yes, Your Grace. I do."
The Green Fields Duke bows his head to the emperor. "We shall stand ready to hear what assistance we may offer Her Highness."
Firenza nurses her tankard, twisting in her chair. She spies Asha and smiles at her. "Have you found a husband yet, darling? I have a few sons I'd love for you to meet."
Asha twists a faint, wry smile towards Firenza over the edge of her glass. "I've met your sons, m'lady," she chuckles bemusedly, leaving the meaning of the statement unclear.
Inclining his head, Rourke looks around, "Any other topics that any would care to argue?"
Isolde grins and then opens her mouth but Rourke beats her to it.
Isadora lowers her glass, glancing around to see if there are any more topics.
Philomena would bring up the topic of gagging her mother, but that's more a family thing. She does shoot the woman a pleading look. Please, be quiet!
Isolde studies the others, ready to move if needed. She seems to study all faces to see if a topic is brought to attention.
Phineas considers Keeper, Emperor, and Liege, and all happen to be the same person. He shakes his head silently to reaffirm the quietude of Green Fields.
Phoebe seconds Mena's glance toward her mother with one of her own. A blow gun would be helpful right about now.
Firenza plucks a smile from somewhere to show Asha and nods. "Perfect. We should discuss a few matters, you and I." She then sits back down in her seat and turns back to the topic at hand -- or lack thereof, pretending to be interested.
Isolde clears her throat and steps up to the podium... cue the jaws theme.
Asha actually seems to be enjoying Firenza. But then, Asha also enjoys the conversation of the hoary old men who sit perpetually drunk in the corner of the Grinning Guardian... "Oh, should we?" she asks, eyes dancing with amusement as she injects her tone with just a /touch/ too much enthusiasm.
Isolde takes a deep breath into her lungs and gives her most social smile. Her eyes make sure to take each person into them as she sweeps them across the room. "The last topic was one of mutual understanding. I would like to thank everyone that spoke upon it. I now have another topic, one normally reserved for members of the newly formed council." Her eyes fall on Rourke for a moment before addressing the people on whole, "I, as the Mistress of Revels and Heir to the Isle of Draught, would love to hear an address on the lifting of the veils. The wisdom of it and what to be prepared for." She looks for a victim and... "Lady Heiress, as it seems almost military, perhaps you could open the debate?"
Rourke sits back, hooking an arm over the back of his chair as Isolde introduces a topic close to his own heart.
Phineas leans forward slightly as this topic is introduced.
Philomena smiles a bit as the new topic is introduced, looking interested as her gaze moves to Asha, expectantly.
Firenza grins back at Asha. "Lovely. I shall arrange for it." She tips her tankard back for more. Mmm.
Asha pauses at Isolde's question, looking over her shoulder with an arch of her brow as her amusement fades. "And here I thought I'd mentioned my desire to avoid taking on armies of differing opinions single-handed," she drawls bemusedly, draining her glass before moving towards the center of the room again. She's slower this time, still thinking things out. "The short version is that I think we ought to make sure we're all of a single mind before we so much as think about it. We need to be at a point where we can trust each other as fellow citizens, not as competition. Close enough that we don't feel the need to toss veiled barbs of accusations at each other," she adds, looking towards Phoebe. "Beyond that, I think I stated my opinion at Council. We send through a single party, prepared with what they need and trusted to scout properly. The barrier doesn't come up until they've returned and we've discussed their findings. Before we send them through, we should have a functioning navy and protection for each aisle. Because, for all we know, those outside think we're ruled by demons and keep watch against them, and would chose to storm an attack the moment they saw something."
Phoebe returns Asha's gaze, listening.
Rourke's brow lifts, his gaze locked on Asha.
Since it could be her future daughter-in-law if she has her way, Firenza applauds lightly for Asha, looking around at the others in attendance and only slightly spilling her drink in the process -- on herself.
"The only debate I have to that for the moment, Lady Asha, is the timing of building a navy and sending out an expedition. There is a decent chance that lowering the barrier would be folly, so to commit and carry through with the building of a navy before such can be discerned by sending out scouts seems hasty," Phineas states in answer to Asha's words.
Duke Lazarus looks to Firenza and whispers softly
Ebony listens carefully, eyes bright as she looks back and forth between the two speakers.
Isolde moves towards Firenza rather quickly with a silken cloth. "Baroness! I must apologize for that servant spilling the drink upon you." She tsks about an imaginary server. "I will see /personally/ that he is taken care of. I do so much apologize, Your Excellency." She then gives a smile and glances around the area. Her eyes moving towards the Duke and then back to Asha. It seems she's waitign to see if Asha is through speaking.
Asha takes a breath, letting it out slowly as she continues. "I understand that building a navy and training each isle to protect itself is expensive, and that it could be for nothing. But I would prefer to be prepared. And I agree about timing, your grace," she nods to Phineas. "Nothing should be done until the Emperor reaches his majority. It's only asking for difficulties. Still, whether the other side is hostile or not, we are an island nation, and if we will wish to compete in a larger market as a trading empire, then a navy to protect our ships will be to our advantage either way."
The Keeper listens, remaining silent as he enjoys his drink, giving the debate his full attention.
Firenza glances down as Isolde approaches, her brows shooting skyward and then she looks aghast. "Oh no. My dress in ruiiined." She nods to Isolde, lips forming a practiced, if aged, pout. "Yes yes. See that he is whipped. This is an outrage. Can't enjoy a little debate..." she trails off, muttering some minor and obligatory hostilities as she takes the handkerchief Lazarus so kindly offers as well and attempts to mop the front of her gown with Isolde's assistance. She smiles favorably at Isolde. "You are so kind and thoughtful, love. You really will adore Phoenix. He could tame you."
Phoebe shushes her mother as she is trying to concentrate on what's being said without the huge distraction of being embarrassed every three minutes.
Philomena lets out a laugh before her hand clamps over her mouth, her features lowering.
Isadora snorts lightly, covering her mouth with the rim of her tankard.
"That need of a navy is presuming that there is some other side we can compete against. We do not know if demonic forces rule beyond the barrier, in which case I'd be very happy to see it remain in place," Phineas counters as he links his hands, elbows on knees. "If lowering the barrier is not a possibility, then we will have no need of that navy. Some moderation, some building of ships, but the commitment of the resources of all the isles to a project which may merely be a castle in the sky? It seems as if we are putting the cart before the horse."
Phoenix lets out a long breath and sort of just /sinks/ into his seat a bit.
Phoebe nods her agreement with her brother's statement.
Isolde tries not to cough on that. She gives a bright smile towards Firenza as she lowers beside her, "I fear I am too much like the wonderful horses upon your isle. I am not to be tamed. It would take a strong hand and a stronger will." She smiles towards the Baroness, "I shall see he is whipped though for such a travesty. If you would like to send the bill to me." Quick mental count of coinage. "I would be happy to replace the dress. It is beautiful. In fact, I would think it was your color. You are amazing. I fear I forget your age and I know it is not polite to ask.. it is thirty though correct?" She turns a smile towards Phoenix and gives a minor wink. Then turns back to the Baroness. "In fact, if you wish I would adore shopping with you when I return from the isle. We can .. girl talk.. if your family can bear being away from you." She turns to look between Phineas and Asha. There is a pause as she waits to see if anyone else has anything to add.
"There's no reason for there to be demons beyond the barrier, your grace," Asha shakes her head. "The barrier was raised centuries after the demons were defeated, and these lands traded with them before that. And if we find that there is good reason not to bring the barrier down, then we have a new fleet of merchant ships to be sold or used for profit by each of the isles, gaining our money back. We're islands, your grace," she points out bemusedly, struggling to keep a straight face as Firenza goes on. "We can find uses for ships."
Phineas eyes Asha. "Perhaps you would give some idea of what scale of a navy you are talking about, Lady Barca?"
Asha gestures to the Emperor. "I'm afraid you'd have to ask the Emperor about that, your grace. It's his navy, with his funding. I simply train the troops to man them."
"And this funding, Emperor, is it one you bear the weight of, or is this a heavy expense that will be levvied of your dukedoms?" Phineas asks as his regard now turns to Rourke
Firenza shoulders her pride visibly with some indignation at being shushed when such a catastrophe has befallen her. Her martyring is short-lived, however, as Isolde treats her with such care and she positively melts with adoration and a sunny smile, one wizened hand rising to cup the girl's cheek if permitted. "Such a sweet sweet girl. I simply /must/ have you as a daughter. You are so much nicer than my real ones. And no, I'm not thirty." She whispers. "I'm thirty-one. And we must talk. I won't have distance between us when you have been so kind. Will you sit with me, or must you run this debate thing?"
Duke Lazarus raises his hand
Isolde nods towards Lazarus. "Perhaps Duke Lazarus may speak on the topic while the Good Emperor thinks upon his own reply?" She doesn't really wait of course, unless Rourke talks, "The floor is yours, Your Grace."
Emperor Rourke's smile is faint. He nods to Isolde's offering the floor to Lazarus.
The look that Phineas gives towards Isolde at her words is a smirk of heavy irony. He leans back, attention drifting towards his dogs.
Isolde allows the face to be cupped. "Oh now Baroness, you mustn't say such things. Your children are wonderful. Why your daughters are the beauties of the isle. Their grace and their poise, why they are walking perfection. Surely you can see yourself in them, Your Excellency." She gives a bright smile, "We must have tea. I fear as much as I would move the stars to spend time with you, it is my duty to run the event." She gives a mock feigned pout to that, "You above all must understand the burden of duty, yet you carry it so well."
Duke Lazarus says, " Building a navy. Pay for the navy. Manning the navy. It is fine to debate these things, but every ship should have representatives from all the Isles. Not for fairness alone. All isles have strong backs for sailors. We know we need healers, cooks, magics if we assume the magic works the same all over the world. But how do we decide who goes? Will service be strictly voluntary or compulsory? Depending on the size of the navy, we may not get enough volunteers to run a navy""
Duke Phineas ruffs the ears of one of his dogs. He mutters to Philomena, "... that... that Lady... him... he does..."
Phoebe inclines her head as she listens, ignoring her mother and offering Phineas a smile at his mutter. "Most interesting."
Phoenix nods in quiet agreemenet with his brother's words.
Philomena looks toward Phineas at his quiet words. Her gaze then touches upon the Emperor and Isolde before her attention returns to the debate.
"Guardian will be proud to supply any defecit in the navy," Asha answers to Lazarus, though she offers a swift grin. "And yes, the navy would be open to all of the isles, any who would choose to fight. As I said at Council, mages can be of great use with wind and water, and as weapons in and of themselves. I've heard there are no better navigators than the men and women of Draught. And I've seen men of Green Fields fight with admirable prowess."
Isolde glances up at the murmuring Green Fields.. oh this can't be good.
Firenza's smile is gentle as she watches Isolde, nodding. "Oh yes. We will speak at length, my darling. You do your business well." She sits back in her seat and watches Isolde with pride. She then looks back at Rhyse -- or his ring finger, rather -- frowning to see it still occupied.
Rourke finds no reason to interrupt the conversation, merely listening as the debate moves from arguing points to details of how a navy would be constructed.
Phoebe counsels silence, her brow furrowed as the conversation continues.
Isolde smiles a bit towards the Baroness as she moves to refill cups and listens to the words. She watches the conversation. Her smile stays upon her features as she moves towards the Emperor, dropping her voice to his ear.
Emperor Rourke glances up at Isolde giving a shake of his head. He seems content with his drink and the talk.
Isolde nods her head as she watches the whispering. Her eyes then move towards Lazarus, "Do you have more to add, Your Grace?"
Duke Lazarus says, "And yet, do we wish the isle of Guardian to give all her men to the navy and the protection of the Emperor. I am concerned about leaving your isle with too few men for your own needs."
Philomena looks suddenly over at Phoenix, her eyebrows shooting upwards at something softly said.
Isolde looks at the Isle of Green Field and then offers a bit. "If I may interject?" She pauses to wait to see if she has the attention of Asha and Phineas.
Phoebe's blue eyes travel to Isolde at the query.
"I assure you, your grace, Guardian is sufficiently populated. Besides," Asha adds with a wry smile, glancing towards the whispering. "I suspect Green Fields, at least, would prefer we didn't comprise the whole of it." That said, she nods to Isolde.
Isadora is observing all with her drink to her lips, just sitting silently.
Phineas glances up from the quiet familial conversation finally, regarding Isolde in silence.
Isolde smiles and steps up pulling her height up. The grace is definite from her mother and her grandmother. "The hour continues on the debate. We will rise tomorrow and the light of Providence will fall afterwards." She smiles brilliantly for all that are in her scheme of sight. "I would like to say that we table the discussion. We must think about what we have heard and take it under our personal advisement. I suggest we meet and speak of this with our leaders and future leaders." She gives a smile to everyone. "It has been an educational night, but I fear the time may come to end the debate. There are still drinks if you wish to stay and speak more privately upon matters. Though perhaps the Emperor can offer his words of thanks for attending." She grins outwardly in the most winning fashion and then dips low. It is a perfect movement, "I thank you all for your attendance."
Phoebe leans back in her chair, lips tracing up a measure as she gives her attention to the Emperor.
The twist of Phineas's lips is somewhat bitter as he leans back.
Philomena's eyebrows draw together as she listens to her family members, then the others that speak on this whole matter. And then that the topic is suddenly closed.
Rourke's gaze focuses on Isolde and he rises after a moment, "Thank you, Mistress of Revels." He then turns to those gathered, "As this topic has already been handled at council and the heirs are to present in a month, I propose that until then, there is no need to continue to discuss it in a formal manner."
Firenza frowns at Phineas when he whispers to the rest of her brood, lifting a finger to her lips to school him with a shush. "Don't talk during the debate, darling."
Isolde drops lower towards the Emperor before she rises.
Asha bows to the emperor, then moves to find her glass, taking it towards a servant for a refill with that same slight smirk firmly in place.
Phineas slips to his feet quickly when the Emperor takes his own, a bow given.
Philomena gets to her feet to curtsey toward the Emperor, following suit.
Phoebe rises to offer a curtsy.
Firenza languidly and half-steadily rises to melt into her own curtsy.
Isadora sets aside her glass, dipping low.
Phoenix rises and offers a /BOW/ towards the Emperor. Like a man.
Emperor Rourke smiles to Isolde and with a nod of his head, makes his way toward the Green Fields group.
Firenza rises from her curtsy and makes her way toward a servant for more booze!
Rourke does gently insert himself between Firenza and her target, "A moment, Lady Firenza."
Asha's found the good booze. Good as in highest alcohol content, that is. And so she takes it towards a the wall again, just watching the people shifting in the hall.
Isolde swings in for Firenza interception, "Baroness.. " Only she is blocked by the Emperor. Instead, she lowers her head and goes to find a lonely wall looking for some company.
Ebony takes the moving about to slip out the nearby door.
Duke Phineas straightens, about to depart until he sees the Emperor approaching. He links his hands behind his back and stands straightly. At least, until the Emperor goes for Firenza. Then he frowns slightly and says something soft to his siblings.
Duke Lazarus looks to Phoebe and then to the others
Philomena watches as the Emperor approaches Firenza as well. She shifts on her feet as she turns to better face her siblings, now that the debate is over.
Phineas turns towards the exit, a soft word given to the dogs. They rise and trot along with him.
Phoebe frowns some, nodding in agreement with Phineas.
Isolde turns to watch the dogs with more than a little curiousity. She starts counting in her head perhaps when she can plot her own get away.
Firenza pauses as the Emperor approaches, her features lighting up with pleasure and fondness. "Ahh, Majesty." She eases into a curtsy. "How can I help you, darling?"
Rourke actually lets the familiarity go, offering an arm, "A moment with you and your family please."
Phoenix lingers near Phoebe, whom he escorted to the whole debate. At the Emperor's words, he simply nods, keeping nearby.
Phineas turns back at the comment from the Emperor, facing the monarch and giving a palm-down gesture to his dogs. They sit.
Philomena's expression turns curious as Rourke asks to meet with the whole of the family.
Isolde glances around and moves towards Rourke to ask a soft question.
Asha pushes off her wall after a moment, slipping out into the hall with her drink.
Duke Lazarus waits off on the side for someone
Firenza smiles toward the Emperor and rises, almost taking his arm with her tankard hand, but catches herself and transfers her empty cup to her free hand. "I would love to, Your Majesty."
Emperor Rourke nods to Isolde's murmur, his attention on Green Fields. He takes Firenza's arm, guiding her back to her children.
Phoebe regards the Emperor and her mother with caution, rather like someone observing a trapeze artist perform without a net after having fallen oh so many times previously.
Firenza strolls along with the Emperor, smiling over at everyone to make sure they see her on the arm of the E-M-P-E-R-O-R.
Phineas waits solemnly with his hands linked behind his back, posture precise.
Phoenix regards his mother and the Keeper with a careful gaze, keeping his silence near his siblings.
Rourke is likely about to make Firenza's life. The Keeper smiles at Phineas, "I have neglected to make my intent formal and would do so now." He releases Firenza arm, offering a hand, palm up to Philomena. "I would request your approval for a formal courtship of your sister, Lady Philomena..." He grins slightly, "If she doesn't run for a ship at his moment."
Duke Lazarus smiles as the Emperor chooses good breeding sto...oh, potential bride.
A sound rather like a fourteen-year old declaration of delight rises from what's left of Firenza's long-gone youth and she rises up on her toes, fairly jumping. She squeezes the Emperor's arm and grins up at him, recounting, "I knew it. I knew you would choose the best female for you and Mena is it. She is so beautiful and strong and intelligent - ohhh." She just ends, finally at a loss for words -- at least for a few heartbeats. Then, as if it will simply top off everything, she reminds Rourke, "I'm going to be your mum. I was this, " she tips her tankard over (thank Providence it's empty) and pinches the air to illustrate, " close to being your mum anyway, so it works out perrrfectly."
Phineas's gaze flicks slightly, but his features are solemn. "Mother," he says, the one word quiet and as steeled as any he has ever spoken. His attention turns towards the Emperor again. "I see. And have you in mind a time frame, Emperor, before courtship would be betrothal?"
"Presuming, of course, that both parties find each other endurable?" Phineas asks.
Philomena blinks as this all happens so quickly after the debate. She sure wasn't expecting it. "You sure don't waste any time, Majesty," she says after a moment, the corner of her mouth curling slightly. She starts moving her hand toward his, though it stops mid-air at her mother's declaration. "Mother! By Providence!"
Isadora chuckles, setting her glass aside and rising, the young Lady slipping out with a curtsy.
Approval falls upon Phoebe's features and a slow smile courts her lips at that request, her attention shifting to Mena for her response. She finally has it with her mother and moves around the Forester kin to try and take her mother's arm and peel her off the Emperor. "Not now, mother. This is about Mena," she says gently through her frozen smile.
Rourke chuckles at Firenza's excitement before he accepts Mena's hand, drawing her toward him if she allows. To Phineas he remarks, "I will need to open the vaults to retrieve the betrothal ring, but my intent is for the marriage to take place within the year... that is, if Lady Mena will accept my suit."
Firenza lets Rourke's arm go at Phoebe's prodding. "Oh fine." She beams at Mena in that well-done, brava, I-knew-you-could-do-it way, likely taking her cue more from Phineas' solemn words than Phoebe's admonishing.
"Emperor, may I have the honor of a moment of your private time?" Phineas asks formally and respectfully.
"Of course, Your Grace." Rourke sends Mena a grin, "I did warn you." He nods to the rest of the family, prepared to walk with Phineas.
Philomena lets out a breath when Phoebe drags Mother away. "Sorry about that," she murmurs toward Rourke, taking a step closer when drawn in his direction. "I will, though," she tells him, then, smiling. "If you survive my brother."
Phineas snaps his fingers and points to the dogs, then to Mena. They trot over and flank her.
Rourke winks to Mena, glancing at Firenza with a smile. "All is well." He then turns to follow Phineas.
"I will come by the tower in not long," Phineas says to his family, a hand turning as he seeks to walk with the Emperor.
Phoebe engages in quiet, hopefully distracting conversation with Firenza.
Duke Lazarus moves to Phoebe and her mother. "Would you ladies care to celebrate in my home for the moment and allow the lovebirds their time alone?"
Philomena does give both dogs a pet when they arrive at her side, watching Phineas as she curtsies to both her brother and the Emperor.
Phoebe smiles warmly toward Lazarus as he approaches, sinking into a respectful curtsy. "Your Grace. I had hoped we could speak soon. "
Emperor Rourke turns his gaze on Mena then with a smile and brief show of strength by curling an arm, he motions to Phineas, "Lead on, Your Grace."
Philomena does chuckle a bit, then crouches to give more proper attention to the dogs, rubbing both of their faces.
