505-01-24 Empress Holds First Council

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March 28, 2008 It's Friday, January 30, 505 A.G.

A castle staff member wanders among those on the floor, remind everyone that unless they are speaking or are council, they should find a seat in a balcony.

Mogur Imperius inclines his head towards Morgan, a faint smile present beneath his beard, and then he stands upon the entry of the Empress.

Liam walks into the hall at a quick clip, presumably with Lin on his free arm and Rosette in close proximity. "Alright, Boss." looking around the balconies. "Where to?" his voice lowered as he looked around to those who lingered here, a proper bow lowered to those about.

Rhyse enters alone, hands clasped behind his back. He hesitates in the hall for a moment, taking deep breaths and looking over the room with a blank, remote expression. He nods once to Dorian, but with that, he closes his eye, turns toward the northeastern balcony stair and ascends, studying his feet just as the Princess enters.

Phailin scans the balconies to see where people are sitting. "I think I see Phaeton and Nix. Want to join them?" Her voice quiet in hopes that Liam can still hear her.

Rosette dips into a curtsy to all those about, while she follows along with Liam in at close proximity. She nods her head in agreement with Lin's words with a small smile - being quiet than speaking up.

Duke Eadric, wife on his arm, enters with a quartet of guards in Guardian livery, all of whom space themselves out with the other ducal guards others may have brought. He bows to the Mogur, then he and his wife remain standing at the arrival of the Empress; under the trimmed beard the duke of Guardian looks as i he's not quite certain he remembers how to smile.

The Empress enters the great hall with Princess Eleanor, escorted by the knights that dutifully guard, lead tonight by Sir Brody. It becomes quite obvious with a few steps that the Emperor does not follow. Philomena Caprios strides gracefully to the head of the room and the chair that awaits her there, her regal features betraying nothing in the way of emotion as she takes her seat. Once settled, dark eyes scan the gathered crowd, watching reactions as she waits for the rest of the congregation to be seated as well. As she waits for the quiet to settle in the hall, her hands run slowly over her skirts and a breath is blown out just as slowly between slightly pursed lips.

Liam nods briefly, hand lifting from his crutch to touch Rosette's back unless she shies back, directing that way. There's still a quick bow to his brother and his wife. Then Mena and El. Eventually he makes way to the balcony.

Solphin smiles to the staff member who wanders around ushering those into their seats. A mildly nervous flickering smile there "Oh, right..." she shifts and moves off toward the nearest balcony, a touch more out of place than usual.

Tiege looks surreptitiously and nervously about from the seats of those who wish to address the council. He draws his hands along his pants. When the Empress arrives he shoots to his feet to bow for her.

Princess Eleanor indeed follows the Empress. She makes to move to the other side of Mena. But she does not claim her seat but of her own. Watching the people as they make their way to their seats. Waiting for things to die down before the council begins.

Dorian steps in, pausing momentarily and looking around for his parents. One-eye is here, but moving to the balcony, and since two-eyes isn't here, he remains at the table to represent Draught. Mostly silently if he can, per instructions.

Aileana rises to curtsey to the Empress and then sits again. She takes a deep breath, some of her nervousness fleeing or at least that's how it may look for a moment before there is a slight expression that may even look excited...maybe.

Lazarus moves to be seated in the back, but still where he can watch the day's proceedings. Getting comfortable, he takes a seat, noting who is and is not in attendance.

Brody steps to a spot behind Philomena and rests a hand lightly on the hilt of his sword while watching the room at large.

Once the Empress has sat, the Mogur returns to his seat to her left, eyes glancing over the court thoughtfully as he rests his hands upon the table in front of him.

And still the Empress waits in the seat set out for her at the head of the table. For another few moments, she watches people arrive and be seated. Each of the Ducal houses get a slow inclination of her head.

The bow that Eadric gives to Mena is deep and long lasting; when he straightens at last, helping Arianell straighten from her curtsey, he smiles at last, encouragingly but fleetingly. But he will not sit before the Empress is seated. He does, however, hold Eleanor's chair for her with a bow and a soft, "Your Highness."

Mena is already in her seat. There is a slight clearing of her throat before she looks to each balcony. Her hands find the arms of the chair to rest on lightly. This council is about to be started.

Princess Eleanor murmurs a quiet thank you at the offer the Duke of Guardians does. Settling in her seat as her gaze falls on Mena. Seeing that soon everyone is getting their seat and silence ensues.

Dorian lays out a binder of parchments in front of him and settles into his seat at the table. He momentarily flips through the items he's supposed to present to make sure they're in order.

Duke Raziel enters, moving to his seat after a proper courtly bow to the Empress, and Princess, and a familiar nod of respect to the other Ducal figures gathered herein. It is only after such modicums of respect are given that he follows suit of Empress, and other Ducal figures, and takes his own seat in accord. An impassive expression plays over his features; which these days are looking strange indeed. A thoughtful glance to the crowd about, and a nod to some, and then his strange, slanted, mismatched eyes are focused on the Empress.

Tiege bows to the table again before sitting, but his eyes widen when he sees the Mistian Duke and he stares as he drops to his seat.

"A good evening to each ducal house, and to the rest of those gathered tonight," Mena says in a confident voice meant to carry to every corner of the great hall once she is ready to speak. "It has been some time since such a meeting has been called, open to the public. We know there has been speculation and rumor circulating around the Isle and the Empire as a whole, and We shall address those rumors now." There is a slight pause and a brief look down at her lap before the Empress continues. "As you all undoubtedly notice, His Majesty is not in attendance. It has come to pass that the Emperor has other paths he must follow, for the safety of his people. Providence has called him to this path, seeking other ways to better serve his people and use his blessed power to see each of you protected. Know that he remains your Sovereign Emperor, and his love for his people remains unabated. There will be a time that he returns to us all. Until then, I stand in his stead, with his full blessing and approval to act on his behalf to lead this Empire the way he would so wish it. We ask all of you in this time, to pray for the Keeper in this new endeavor, in the hopes that it brings this Empire to an era of peace and safety we have not known before."

Aileana looks to Mena as she speaks, a smile of support on her lips for the Empress.

Princess Eleanor hands are folded together in her lap as she listens to the Empress. Especially on the part when Mena says pray and perhaps that is what El is doing. It doesn't hurt, netherless. But her attention is defintly on Mena as she leads the council. A role that her brother would have done. There is defintly support given from the Princess.

After settling last, once the noblewomen are seated, Eadric sits quietly beside Arianell and looks down at his hands as Rourke's fate is mentioned. His pose is very still.

If Dorian is surprised by Mena's announcement, he doesn't show it. He does listen attentively and nod appropriately in understanding.

Duke Raziel inclines his head solemnly to the Empress at her statement; silently but effectively showing his support and agreement with the baring of the truth in the face of such rumors. He leans back in his chair slightly, continuing to focus on Her Majesty.

The Empress's hands could be said to be gripping the arms of the chair until she catches herself doing it, then folds them neatly in her lap instead as she watches the reactions of her words spread through the Great Hall. "Know that like His Majesty, the concern of our people is my highest priority, and like him, I shall make myself available to each and every one of you, should you have the need. I thank you all for your support in this time of transition. I shall make it as smooth as I possibly can."

Lazarus coughs into a handkerchief and then reaches into an inner pocket to retrieve a small silver flask. The lid is unscrewed, a long pull is taken of the contents before it is once again closed and returned to its place. He continues to listen.

Empress Mena draws in a deep breath, her gaze sweeping across the hall once more before it moves to look at each Ducal representative gathered at the table around her. "With that addressed, we shall hear the reports of the Isles. Let us hear from Mists first, this evening." A nod to Raziel turns the floor over to him.

Duke Raziel inclines his head to the Empress, "My Baronies and Lordships continue to dutifully hunt down the remnants of the Abyssal Children that are left in the wake of the fall of their 'Keeper', Vox. We have made some strides in this, in both finding some of the fallen and in wresting some measure of hold they might have held upon our Isle," he tells the Empress, in a smooth, matter-of-fact tone. "Life is otherwise returning to normal upon Mists, with freedom and safety returned to it, as all the Empire. There is much healing, and still much work to be done in this aftermath, but we continue to make great strides, much with the effort of our citizens, the High Council, and such faithful nobles as are entrusted with the lands as we have."

Duchess Arianell remains seated next to Eadric, her shoulder touching his. The duchess remains composed, a serene confidence in her posture.

Empress Mena inclines her head slowly and gratefully to Raziel as his report concludes. "Thank you, Your Grace. We are very pleased to hear of the ongoing healing of Mists. Mogur Imperius?" she says, looking to the High Mage. "Have you anything to add to this report?"

Mogur Imperius smiles softly and inclines his head, white hair stirring idly as he does so. His voice, though aged, seems to carry a considerable distance, "Thank you, your Majesty. Yes, the Council of Mages does have one or two pieces to add. Firstly, the debate upon the recent proposition that certain restricted Spheres be made legal continues, and whilst no definite consensus has been reached, the Council would like to assure both the people of Mists, and of the entire Empire, that any conclusions reached will be done so with utmost concern for the preservation of morality and safety." His eyes twinkle softly as he continues, "Secondly, we would like to add our support for her Majesty in this time of trial, and offer the resources of the High Council should it be desire. Finally, an assurance that any Mage whom abuses his or her Providence-given gifts will face swift and stern retribution, as the safety of the Empire and of course its people is our utmost concern."

Empress Mena nods slowly to the words of the Mogur. "Thank you, Mogur Imperius. The support is most appreciated, and the debate is one we shall speak upon further, soon. At this time, we shall turn the floor to Green Fields." Her eyes move to Aileana to hear her report next.

Aileana still looks more nervous than she has in a time, and does pause when her Isle is called. She then clears her throat once and then lifts her voice so that it should carry, "Green Fields has to report that early indications for this year's spring crops are promising. If these reports are accurate, then we should have a lucrative harvest with steady prices." She then pauses, looking down at her hands for a moment before she adds, "And if all is well, then I hope to plan a Spring Festival much like the Fall Festival this past year. I would request that nobles and citizens alike consider ideas they would like to see for said festival." As she silences, nervousness is replaced with a brief look of excitement -- very brief.

"We shall look forward to both the good harvest, and the festival that comes with it," Mena replies to Aileana with yet another nod. "Thank you, Your Grace. Guardian?" she then prompts, looking to Eadric and Arianell.

"By your leave, my Liege," Eadric begins with a bow of his head to the Empress. "The duchy has in the months since the uprising found stability politically, although Lord Jackob's stint as Baron of Dun Artan was short-lived; Providence blessed us with the return of Lord Thorvald, and Lord Jackob was gracious enough to step aside for his nephew and keep the line intact as the late Baron desired. The Dux Bellorum is leading the effort to root out remnants of support for Vox on Guardian, so, thank Providence, we have enjoyed a time of peace. And if her Grace, the Duchess of Green Fields, has a spring festival, Guardian would be more than honored to sponsor a tourney for it." He bows his head to Aileana, offering a half-smile to her before turning back to Mena. "In this time, your Majesty, little news is the best news we of Guardian can offer and now, as always, both her Grace and I stand ready in support of you while his Majesty is occupied elsewhere...and all of Guardian stands at your bidding, should the time come for that need. You are our Liege Lady, and our honor is to serve."

Azurios steps into the Great Hall with a smooth sharkish smile. He saunters along and glances around the room. A soft word with a servant precludes his velvety laugh. He continues forward and flourishes an elegant bow toward the council table before sitting at one of the sparse seats left for those who wish to speak.

El takes a turn to listen to the Duchess of Green Fields. Giving that same attention when the Duke of Guardians speaks. A nod given towards the man as he speaks. Showing she's listening. She's been listening to the council as a whole even if she herself gives of no speech.

Nell watches Eadric with a small, warm smile as he speaks, her hands folded neatly on her lap.

There is some pause that the Empress takes at the Duke Guardian's words before she inclines her head. "Thank you," she replies to the man after a short clearing of her throat. She just looks about to call upon Dorian when her gaze catches on the arrival of Azurios. Her head turns slightly, giving the man a hard stare for that moment before she gets back to business and looks to Dorian. "Draught?"

The eyes of the Mogur narrow slightly as he gazes at the new arrival, glittering violet seeming to give way to ice blue as he watches the other Mage with interest.

Azurios's eyes meet those of the Empress. His teeth flash as his hand slips into his garments. One bright, shiny, exceptionally special coin is drawn forth and rifled slowly through the digits of his right hand. His gaze stays level upon Mena.

Dorian clears his throat and reads from the parchment in front of him, being careful to speak clearly and precisely. "I am honored to present the report of the Isle of Draught," he begins. After a pause for a breath, he launches into the information. "The Isle is in excellent condition, with the quality of life improving for nearly all citizens. Our recovery from the illegal experiments with necromantic potions is nearly complete, with all but a few individuals restored. I am proud to report that two hundred and seventy new healers graduated just today from the College of Healing, and will be arriving at various places throughout the Empire over the coming months. Miller's Isle reports a high productivity rate on new inventions, and if you heard rumors about the testing field that blew up, that was actually a success." He pauses to cough a moment, and flips to the next page. "Unfortunately, there was a rabid slice-chop-vegtachine that ransacked a tavern kitchen. Nobody was hurt." He hurriedly moves on to the next item. "Finally, Ethos is proud to report that they are making several contributions to the Providence Temple project that Duchess Guardian is coordinating." He sets down the parchment and looks up, nodding his head to signal completion, declining to ad-lib anything not written.

Princess Eleanor as ever holds onto grace and does not even acknowledge Azurios. She simply looks on as Dorian gives his report for Draught. She gives an encouraging smile as he reads off his report. Once he is done she gives a nod to the young heir. Than she let's herself watch Azurios, shaking her head some when she sees what it is he has in his hand.

Empress Mena pointedly keeps her attention on Dorian as he makes his report, offering the young heir a bit of a smile as he finishes. "Thank you, Marquis. Speaking of the Temple project, I do believe Duchess Arianell wished to speak on such?" Her regard switches to the Duchess, pointedly not looking back in Azurios's direction.

Tiege's brow furrows as he watches the high council and listens to Dorian give the report for his isle. He sits up a little straighter, if possible, when the mention of Ethos is made.

Duke Raziel listens quietly as the other Isle's give their reports; he smiles faintly in all the right places, nods his head in all the right places, but the gestures are more sincere, than concillatory or polite. A brief, curious glance and an impassive look is given to Azurios, first; then a more quizzical, and even briefer glance to the Mogur's look at Azurios, before Raziel's attention again focuses to those giving oratory.

Azurios continues to smile with laconic triumph.

Nell smiles swiftly as Mena when the empress looks to her, nodding gratefully to Dorian. She does pause to smooth a hand over her skirt before moving to stand. Because apparently she finds it necessary. "Thank you, your majesty," she says first, then looks to the balconies as much as those around her, smiling easily. "The temple project is coming along swiftly, thanks to the contributions of the Soranus family, as well as our fellow dukes and duchesses, baroness Phoebe Forester, and countless others. Plans are in the works now for the construction of a central temple, a dwelling for those who wish to contemplate and worship Providence, and a structure to care for the poor not only with a roof over their heads and food for their stomachs, but also for job training and placement. I will soon be holding a charity dinner, in which seats next to several young lords and ladies of the court will be auctioned to the highest bidder. I've already had several volunteers, but if anyone else is interested, please feel free to contact me or Lord Jenoch Morien, who has been of great help in organizing this venture. Anyone interested in donating time, materials, or funds for the project can do the same. With luck and the aid of all of Providence's people, we will see the temple built and serving the community in no time."

"The Temple will be a most welcome addition to Gateway, and very much overdue. We thank you for your diligence in seeing this project become reality, Your Grace," The Empress replies to Arianell, inclining her head slowly to the young Duchess. "Next, Master Tiege Soranus wishes to address council on the matter of the Winter Charity Faire." Her dark gaze seeks out the young man, bidding him to rise and speak.

Tiege goes starkly pale when his name rings through the air, and his teeth sink into his bottom lip hard. He gets to his feet awkwardly and stands for one petrified moment before he walks forward. When he reaches a spot before the table, he bends in a deep and respectful bow. The fingers of one hand curl about the opposite wrist as he straightens and remains motionless. He might not be breathing. He's clearly forgotten how to speak.

A smile of pride creases Eadric's featres as he nods to Arianell in the aftermath of her report.

"Oh!" Nell interrupts briefly. "And Eadric, who's going to make the most wonderful design for it," she smiles sheepishly, flushing as she sits back down with a silly smile for her husband.

Empress Mena's lips quirk slightly as Tiege freezes, giving the Soranus youth an encouraging expression. "Speak what you will, Master Soranus. We shall all listen."

Tiege's tongue wets his very dry lips, not really doing much to help, and he nods to the Empress. "My deep gratitUU--" His voice breaks in a squeak and his eyes squeeze shut while a blush floods the formerly pale features. His nostrils flare as he takes a few breaths to regain something of composure, and he clears his throat.

Then Tiege begins again.

"My deepest gratitude to the council for allowing me a moment to address everyone," he begins, the first words almost too soft to hear, but he gains momentum and volume quickly enough as his topic is one he is passionate about. He turns slightly as he talks, clearly trying to make certain he's addressing everyone, but he does lose color again when he sees all the people in the balcony. "As Providence has blessed so many of us with sufficiency, its easy to grow comfortable in it and not see those in need, those who are still homeless after some of the turmoil that has occurred upon Gateway. Yet while we are warm, there are many who are cold, hungry, and suffering. It is our duty and our mandate from Providence to remember these people, and to extend to them a hand of friendship and support." He pauses for a breath, or to concentrate on not throwing up from nervousness.

El looks pleased at the report that Nell gives her gaze now falling on Tiege when he takes a turn to speak. Straightening some in her seat as she listens.

Mogurmakes a note upon a small slip of paper, and casually slides it towards the Empress.

Duchess Arianell smiles encouragingly to Tiege, even picking up a hand to wave subtly to the young man.

Blushing in the aftermath of Arianell's inclusion of her architect's name, Eadric has to smile at Tiege as he begins to speak, murmuring to Nell, "Apparently he did remember his tongue after all."

Dorian smiles toward Tiege, nodding approvingly at his words and trying to wish some confidence in his direction.

Mena's gaze does leave off Tiege briefly as she reads the note passed to her. She gives a nod to Mogur, but does not interrupt the lad's speech. Instead, she looks back to him to hear the rest of what he has to say.

"The Winter Charity Faire is starting in two days, and is an event to help gather awareness and support for those in need while providing entertainment for everyone through this cold season," Tiege continues, finally gaining a presenter's equilibrium. Words that started soft and nervous are now filled with conviction and a rich persuasion as his chin lifts. "It will be held here in this beautiful setting, a celebration indoors to avoid the cold. Shopkeeps are setting up booths to sell their wares so that one can indulge without having to forage through the snow. Musicians will be performing for the amusement of those who are present, and artists will be presenting their wares. There will be a raffle of a generous donations by some of the baronial and ducal houses, whom will be gratefully acknowledged for their generousity. Hopefully others who have not yet seen fit to offer some gesture of support will soon do so. Nobles, musicians, artists, any who wish to donate time or goods, please do contatct me. Music, games, food, a raffle, and a snow and ice sculpture competition will be a part of the faire, with the sculpture individual or teams to start on the first day and be judged on the last."

Boy, can he talk. Tiege's hands unlink and occasionally proffer a concise and purposeful gesture to punctuate his words. "This community event is one that anyone can come and be a part of, but for nobles there will be a nominal entrance fee of a silver each, and for citizens a donation of used clothing or food. Of course," Tiege's lips lift in only a subtle hint of a smile, "anyone who wants to donate more than the silver or a piece of clothing or food, doubtless Providence will remember your kindness." He draws a breath and says a last, "Thank you all for listening. I hope that we may see you at the Faire, and that the blessings Providence has showered down upon each of you will move your hearts to share their abundance." He bows deeply to the balconies and then to the table, but waits to be dismissed.

Mena gives Tiege another smile as she tips her head. "We look forward to attending, and thank you for your generous gift of time to assist those in need upon this Isle." With that polite dismissal given, the Empress pauses again to breathe slowly. Only then do those forest eyes focus on Azurios. "Now is the time We shall open the floor to those who have business they wish to bring forward to the council." There is some tension to her voice that slips through no matter how she tries to keep it at bay. And her gaze does not leave that mage.

Tiege moves back to his seat with stiff paces, his hands clenching in front of himself again.

With the invitation issued, Azurios flows to his feet. The garments whisper about him as he does so and flow as if they were liquid rather than fabric. He paces forward and undertakes an excessively graceful bow. "Empress, Highness, Your Graces, good Mogur." His teeth all show in the smile that he offers to each mentioned person of the council. "I first offer my deep apologies for my tardiness at council. I have been working tirelessly upon Draught to help restore those damaged citizens that Marquis Dorian mentioned. It is an effort that I and a few of my order toil at out of our deep concern for all of the people of this Empire." The rolling leonine purr of his voice is filled with that concerned emotion he mentions. "I am pleased to say that, with our efforts, the restoration has been highly successful."

"We are very pleased to hear it," Mena tells the man with a tight smile. "And grateful for the efforts of you and your order in assisting the Empire in time of such need." But she looks as if she is expecting more to come from the man.

El is paying close attention to what Azurios is doing and saying. Watching him with an expected look as he converses with the Empress.

Aileana definitely watches the former Mogur with that still strained expression of trepidation -- the one she's carried all evening.

Azurios lifts his hand and the flash of gold and sapphire can be seen twinkling between his fingers. "Such gratitude the Empire has offered me many times for my work upon their behalf. From the first occasion when you and Duke Raziel, personally, indulged in a trip of exploration beyond the barrier with me to my duration in the office of Mogur, the countless times I have aided with Vox or other difficulties, I have always honored my promises and served with distinction. It was a great honor to receive this Unity Coin as a gift from our Emperor and Keeper, bearing with it the right to ask of the crown what we seek, with no true limitation placed upon it." His smile returns with cool trimph. "It is now that I would offer this coin in turn for the right it has granted me, and have the crown legalize the practice of necromancy so that myself and my own order might aid them without the stigma and threat lingering over our heads." The coin is flipped into his open palm and held there as he bows slightly. His eyes remain fully upon Mena.

Duke Eadric's jaw literally drops open, and his gaze swivels swiftly toward Mena. Tension marks each line of his posture.

Dorian listens tight-lipped to the comments by Azurious, but his mouth opens slightly as the request is made, clearly surprised by it. His eyes immediately move to Mena to see her reaction.

Duke Raziel's own expression is impassive, as he watches Azurios, obviously, much like the Empress, expecting the 'other shoe to fall', as it were. And, as the 'coin', is turned in and the claim made, he frowns, fully, no longer guising his thoughts behind a steeled well-placed mask. His own jaw tenses, and he almost looks as if he would speak, but he stills himself, looking to the Empress, first and foremost.

Nell stiffens at Azurios' request, the duchess almost standing. She, too, looks to Mena, though she presses her lips together hard against speaking.

Tiege's jaw drops open and his eyes widen, then narrow, staring as if they will bore holes into the back of Azurios.

Mogur Imperius frowns, white eyebrows crossing as he stares Azurios. He does not comment for the moment but his fingers rap out an annoyed pattern upon the table in front of him.

Aileana just stares at the former Mogur, swallowing hard as she tries to keep her expression neutral. Of course, she fails miserably with her wince as she looks away from the shiny little coin being displayed where all can see.

Applause sounds from the Southeast balcony.

No words come out of Eleanor's lips but she's quick to look at Mena to see how the Empress takes this one on.

The applause from the Southeast balcony grows.

The Empress looks as if she was expecting exactly those words to come out of Azurios's mouth. A gesture of pause is given to those sitting at the table with her, though her gaze never does leave Azurios. "Master Erastothenes," she states in a calm tone. "His Majesty...," she pauses at the sound of the applause, glancing up at the balcony only a moment before she continues, "His Majesty granted the Unity Coins in good faith to those he saw as deserving, it is true. As a /personal/ favor in return for the service given to this Empire in its time of great need. A personal gift of a boon. We understand and appreciate your zealousness for your art. However, this public of a venue is not the appropriate setting. I would be more than happy to discuss your desire in exchange for your coin in private council, in a more personal setting, as it was meant to be."

The applause from the Southeast balcony continues to grow.

"Here, here," Eadric states quietly. "Well said, your Majesty." This duke of Guardian in known in some quarters as having patience for magic with limits; this seems to hit such a limit fairly soundly.

Princess Eleanor takes in a breath and lets it out. Giving a nod when she hears Mena's comment. In fact she goes as far as applauds for her sister in law. Maybe to counter the applause that comes from the south balcony.

Duke Raziel gives an approving nod, a slow nod, to the Empress' words, clearly approving and not bothering to hide the fact thereof. He does not, however, vocalize his approval. His look, apparently, is more than enough.

Aileana just releases a held breath at the manner of Mena handling the request. She shifts in her chair just slightly as she reaches down to place a hand over her stomach.

Duchess Arianell doesn't look entirely reassured by the answer, but she does lean back in her chair again, her expression disturbed as she moves to twine her arm with Eadric's.

Azurios's air of insouciant triumph is undimmed even as the Empress forestalls answering his request. The hand holding the coin presses to his heart as he straightens from his bow. "I am certain that your continued support of His Majesty's oath in regard to my faithful service will stand true in public or in private. I eagerly await our more personal conversation." He steps back a pace from the audience and turns around to saunter away from the table. His long fingers brush his lips and he blows a kiss toward the Southeast Balcony.

Tiege stares at Azurios with wide eyes as the man comes back his way. Subtly he tries to scoot in a direction apart from the necrophile.

The Empress says nothing further to Azurios as he takes his leave of the council's attention, though she watches him with an intensity not often seen in these public settings. She breathes in and looks around again. "Are there any others that wish to come forward to address the council? And do keep in mind, we are not hearing debates on the legalization of Necromancy this evening."

Azurios looks back over his shoulder toward the Empress. "Would it have been more acceptable to ask for the hand of Baroness Forester, Empress?" His lazy laugh borders on sensuality and carries through the hall as he reaches his seat and settles.

A high-pitched "WHAT?!?" comes from the Southeast balcony, and applause as well.

Empress Mena does not even reply to Azurios's taunting words, instead looking to see if any other approach the council this evening.

Nell coughs at Azurios' next question, her free hand shooting up quickly to cover her mouth as she hides her features against Eadric's arm for just a moment.

At the back doors of the hall, a runner watches the Empress. With a subtle gesture from her, he turns and takes off.

Duke Raziel does his part to ignore Azurios' question, too. Instead, he glances over the floor, and balcony to see if any others have issues, or concerns to be brought forwards.

Aileana just gives a small smile to Mena, the young woman still looking a bit restless, almost as if the unity coin issue hasn't phased her for long.

With the last of the business seemingly attended to, the Empress lifts her chin to look around once more. "We have one last matter we wish to see attended to this evening. To do so, we call Phineas Ashlan to come and stand before us." Then her eyes are glued to the door leading to the East Hall and remain there.

Tiege bites his lip and looks up at the balconies.

Duchess Arianell looks up quickly when Phineas is called, her brows rising curiously. Eadric straightens as well, stiffening somewhat.

Aileana's gaze immediately turns to the same door as Mena stares, her lips curving into a bit of a girlish smile though she is quick to push it aside and try to remain neutral -- try being the keyword here.

Dorian blinks as not only Phineas, but a rather large canine arrives.

Various observers express Shock and Alarm.

Duke Raziel shifts up in his seat, giving the Empress a curious look, and a thoughtful frown. Afterall, this is the man that made him mostly-dead, according to the rumors. But, he says nothing. Instead, his slanted eyes shift to the man, and his dogs as they come forth.

Nick is just doing his job. And tonight it seems he is escorting one Phineas Ashlan. Looking over at the Empress to see where she wants him to put Ashlan at.

Phineas steps into the room with a knight at one side and a rather gargantuan dog at the other. His bare feet make little sound upon the floor as he steps forward boldly. His hand lifts up a bit to ruffle at the ears of Ivanhoe. When he gets near the table, both Phineas and Ivanhoe bend in bows, human and canine. Midnight eyes look over the council when Phin stands straight.

Empress Mena watches the approach of her erstwhile brother, her expression schooled to a tight neutrality. As Phineas comes to stand before the council, her head inclines slowly. "Some time ago, His Majesty issued a pardon for all of the followers of Vox who wished to come forward and take part in his Imperial mercy. In this vein, and with the authority placed upon me by His Majesty, I hereby announce the complete pardon of Phineas Ashlan on this day, for all of his prior crimes." Here she pauses and takes a breath, giving only the briefest of scans of the crowd.

Tiege half-rises to his feet with his lips parted, but he plants himself in his seat once more. Anyone seeing his face could tell that he really doesn't want to be sitting on the floor.

A huzzah arises from the northeast balcony, and a whooping cheer as well.

From the north-east balcony comes a very loud, "Whoo-HOOO!!"

A high pitched whistle comes off the Northeast balcony.

Azurios watches with muted interest the arrival of someone more notorious than himself. He rifles the Unity Coin between his fingers.

From Northeast Balcony, a masculine voice shouts, "Phin-e-as! Phin-e-as!"

Aileana desperately tries to remain neutral, but the smile comes and so does the glassy look of impending tears. Her bare feet are wrapped around the legs of her chair at the ankle, probably to keep her seated.

From Northeast Balcony, a feminine voice shouts, "You 'ave your 'usband back, Duchess, comes from an obviously de Leuvian accented woman."

Nell smiles slowly, though it's a warm expression, and reaches a hand across the council table toward Aileana. "Congratulations," she says in a low voice.

Eadric looks somewhat less certain than his wife.

Phineas's lips twist in slow smile, either at the pardon or at the calls from the balconies. He starts to turn to look back to aim that grin at some of those calling, but restrains that motion and looks back at the Empress. He doesn't say anything yet.

Duke Raziel clears his throat. Once. And sits back in his chair, his own expression for the most part, quite impassive, and unemotional, a blank slate. Yet, those who know him well might notice some subtle tension laying in the underpinnings of his body language. He says nothing.

Princess Eleanor is quiet. Simply watching Phineas as Mena gives the pardon. There may be a curve of a smile seen otherwise the expression on the princess's face is neutral.

Empress Mena holds up her hand in a gesture of silence, as if she is not finished. "Furthermore," she continues, her voice remaining strong enough to carry over even murmurs of the crowd. "In being so pardoned, We see fit to reinstate Phineas Ashlan as Duke of Green Fields, with all the rights and privileges therein. From this moment on, he shall no longer be known as the criminal and outlaw Phineas, but His Grace, Duke Ashlan of Green Fields." And then she focuses on the form of her brother before her. "You may join your wife, Your Grace." As she finishes her statement she flows to her feet. "I call this council adjourned, and bid all of you a good evening." There is no hesitation in her abrupt ending of the meeting, turning to leave the great hall without pause. The knights fall in behind to follow dutifully her departure.