Council Meeting: Hot Cycle 722

[Zana]

1st Ymiden, 722

When Kura asked about the request for additional funding, Zana nodded. "I have taken an office which, frankly, has quite poor records. The accounts are being taken care of by one of my staff, now, and are above board. However, since this proposal for tours and gifts is a new thing, I was assuming that it would require a new funding stream. I'll speak with Shania after the meeting to clarify a few things." She did indeed have some questions, but now was not the time or place.

Kura was right about the Badlands, and Zana nodded but also had an answer. "I have included asking Natural Affairs - and possibly the Rangers - to undertake a survey first in my proposal. I wouldn't want to go somewhere dangerous," she said with a smile. "I might break a nail." Nir'wei added his piece about that, although Zana frowned slightly. Was he so out of touch? "The Badlands have been reducing for some time, normal growth returning to them," she said. "I would not wish to build in the Badlands but, as I said, on the site of the former Badlands. Lands which I would still wish to be surveyed, absolutely, before we begin." She met Nir'wei's gaze and nodded. "If the vote goes through, I will contact Drathidir while that survey is ongoing."

Councillor Bao agreed to take the lead on working with the mega-hospital and Zana nodded. "Any assistance that Foreign Affairs can give, of course." She didn't think that her role would be at all involved, but just in case.

Council Member Nir'wei's follow up question to her prompted one perfectly manicured eyebrow to raise. "I'm unsure what you're insinuating, Councillor, but the itinerary I have planned has them being shown around Scalvoris, meeting quite a few people. They'll be busy. Is there someone you'd like them to meet?"

All the talk of Slags Deep continued, with first Francis, then Rand, and finally Shania utterly ignoring that she had offered to go there also. They spoke of Bao and Woe doing so, but did not note or comment on her. She watched that with interest and said nothing while they spoke. When they had all had their say, she cleared her throat. "Perhaps I did not speak loudly enough when I said that I was willing to go, too. In case it wasn't heard, my experience in Uthaldria with Chief Ranger Mednix before we split up, and then what I did afterwards, might prove to be useful."

These people were unbelievable.

And then, Jo'ne again spoke of there being "no obvious advantage" to Alyssia being treated differently than everyone else. It took all of Zana's self-control not to roll her eyes. If the idiotic woman couldn't work out that being treated differently because you were friends with the Albarech (or at the very least it seeming to be that way) looked bad on all concerned, then there was no point wasting her breath explaining. However, her explanation was as much for those around her as it was for this foolish woman. So, Zana explained - and she made sure to use small words. "I believe the point is that, no matter why or how, it seems to be playing favourites. To making someone different than others, because they are the Alberach's student. Especially with no introduction or reason why."

If she didn't understand now, there was no more Zana could do. One can not, after all, cure stupid.

They circled back to the museum and Rand had a few words on that. Zana looked - because she was - confused. "Arial reports? I'm talking about looking out of my window - and my own flights around Faldrass. The badlands are more or less non existent now. As per the calendar = "The badlands remain largely unexplored Plot Point ~ but are more or less gone now. What secrets did they take with them?" ." Zana was genuinely beginning to wonder whether these people were all just deliberately trying to wind her up.

And then, Shania spoke. Zana turned to look at her and her expression was clear. This was too much.

"When Council Member Morandi suggested the Glass Harbour, no one suggested talking to the people of Egilrun about it. When Council Member Doran suggested a festival, no one thought that we should check in with people on Ishallr. With all due respect, Councillor Shania, why would you suggest anything different here?" Zana sounded just a little irritated. She was. "As far as I can tell, one settlement is little more than a collection of huts, the other is slightly larger but still - is some houses, an Inn and a lighthouse. Maybe between them, they constitute a small village, but probably not. I live at the Barony, and Baron Devin and I have discussed this idea, but since this very council decided not to give Faldrass a representative, I would suggest that we don't start doing so by back doors." Zana had no idea what Shania's angle was here, she didn't know whether there'd be some reason for it, but she was not being made anyone's pawn.

"If - and this is an if - we were to speak to anyone on Faldrass, I assume it would be Saoire's Dream and, as the Alberach suggested, the Induk." Zana was not going to be messed around by anyone on this. Whatever Shania's hidden agenda was, she'd best find another pawn. "I also don't plan on asking the Spirits Rest, as you seem to have forgotten about them." Woe gave his support to the idea of a museum, and Zana raised an eyebrow in consideration. "That sounds like an excellent idea," she said. "I'll speak with Council Member Thetys," Zana smiled at her former mentor, "and include that. Thank you, Council Member Morandi."

Zana had been unsure of whether to put herself forward for this job and had been rather surprised to discover that she liked it. However, every time that she attended one of these meetings, she considered that she wanted to quit.

ooc Apologies for the delay! I haven't sent you a vote, since both proposals are Zanas - but if she gets a vote on them, she thinks they're both marvellous ideas. Please note, though, that a survey of the area is included in the proposal she gave Shania. Thanks!

Some of them want to use you, Some of them want to get used by you
Some of them want to abuse you, Some of them want to be abused.

[Alyssia]

Alyssia looked at the council members each in turn as Kura stood up for the reason that the girl stood behind her mentor. A part of her felt like shrinking into the corner where she could not be seen and stared at any longer. But that would not prove to be fruitful, it would only serve to make herself look weak and childish. She was there to learn and that meant standing up for not only herself, but for her mentor as well. When given the chance the girl cleared her voice and stepped forward keeping an even tone though her insides felt like they were shaking.

“Pardon the intrusion, I would like to speak for myself on this matter since it seems so many are conflicted. I am indeed Alyssia von Smooglenuff, Lady Saoire and the late baron granted me this title. I plan to uphold its honor, in order to do that I need the proper training. Lady Kura offered me the position as her student some time ago. It was not until recently that I felt truly prepared to take on what would be required of me. It is my own fault for not sending my letter to her sooner so that she would have time to respond and give her time to address this with all of you. For that I sincerely apologize and would like the honor of meeting each of you after the meeting has concluded. Mrs. Zana I am surprised you do not recognize me seeing as I live with Baron Devin, and we met during the awakening of the dragons,” Alyssia smiled sweetly as the woman while not once taking her eyes away from the older woman’s.

“You presume that my teacher would not have taken the time to address my presence had she received my letter sooner. That seems in poor taste does it not? Of course, I am happy to go back to the galley as I was not expecting to be allowed here to begin with. For what it is worth, the barons and leaders on Faldrass will be happy to provide any assistance they can to help strengthen the bonds between the new settlements and Scalvoris. Excuse me, I shall take my seat now.”

Alyssia stated and bowed at the waist to everyone and began to make her way around the edge of the room. She spotted Woe and waved at him, happy to see him once more. They were planning on meeting several days later into the cycle, and it would surely prove to be interesting. The teen let out a held breath as she sat down and continued to listen to the meeting, happy that Cally was able to come with her in case the girl had any questions. She could not stop herself from leaning over to the ghost, her heart still pounding.

“I didn’t step out of line did I? I do not want to cause any more trouble for Lady Kura,” Alyssia whispered looking over at her.

[Oram Mednix]

Not just: “No!” but: “Beneath No!”

Oram sighed quietly. So much talking. So much drama. In most such situations, he would have found an excuse to slink out of the room; unfortunately, there was just enough stuff being talked about that was actually important that the Chief Ranger could not do that here.

It seemed that he would be on his own to find out whether the EWWWW crew were behind the rumors about the new Egg, and that was fine. He would still keep the Elements apprised of what he was doing and also what, if anything, he discovered, as he had promised.

The Glass Harbor and foreign visitor matters were mildly interesting, but well outside of Oram’s expertise, so he said nothing about them.

The Dead Immortals? Shrines to Audrae and Syroa and the like? The hunter groaned inwardly as it became apparent that a number of the other Council members favored the idea. He had planned to hold his peace during any discussion of the matter, yet found that he could not. When his turn to comment came, he said simply: ”I do not wish to quarrel with any of my fellow Council members about this, but I will not be supporting any proposal to memorialize the dead Immortals in question. Syroa? Audrae? Belaera? Kata? They’re only dead because they tried to kill us first, and failed. These were not mere symbols of different ideas or something; they were actual, concrete enemies, whose animus towards the bulk of folks in this room was as unrelenting as it was undeserved.” He gave a concessive nod to the Devout. ”I realize that these Immortals still have followers. I understand that Naerykk, for example, revere Audrae as their protector or creator or something. I don’t care. I will not support any proposal to memorialize or revere them at public expense, and would ask those thinking of doing so to reconsider.”

Oram clamped his mouth shut and breathed for several trills, not wishing to elaborate his comments into some sort of rant. Fortunately, there were other subjects to switch to. Zana had suggested that she might take part in the Slag’s Deep expedition. Oram regarded the woman as he considered how best to say: “Over my dead body.” At last, he simply said: ”Thank you for your offer; I can contact your office, should I take you up on it.”

With that, the Chief Ranger was done talking. The survey of the Badlands? A museum on Faldrass? Whether it was appropriate for Alyssia to be at the Council table? All matters that might have interested him on another trial, but for now, he was done. Oram looked down at his feet, which were among the few things he had no reason to be annoyed with right now.

[Doran]

Unlike Zana, Doran didn’t have a problem with Alyssia’s presence at the council meeting; on the contrary, he thought that giving a young lady the opportunity to learn more about politics was a good idea. He did wonder about the Albarech’s planned trip to Slag’s Deep though – again – and he was most curious as to what Kura’s answer would be.

While the Councilor of Foreign Affairs did have a point, at least in certain regards, and gave him the impression of being quite an intelligent woman in general, she tended to be rather direct.

Her proposals were all worthwhile in his opinion though, including the one regarding the museum, although there was one thing that he couldn’t help but wonder about. “Why the former Badlands, if you don’t mind me asking, Councilor Delroth?” he wanted to know in a calm and polite tone of voice and proceeded to raise an eyebrow very lightly.

Zana, he decided, had certainly been busy.

He didn’t say anything when Kura finally spoke, although he did incline his head slightly when she mentioned that one of her domains was tracking. That explained why she wanted to go to Slag’s Deep herself. Her abilities would without a doubt come in handy; and besides, it would probably be helpful if she were seen doing something outside of an immediately crisis, he thought as he remembered Zana’s statement regarding perception.

(He didn’t like that so much depended on perception – and he would never do anything just for the sake of perception – but it was something that absolutely needed to be considered regardless.)

Bao was as always helpful. Doran smiled very lightly as he looked at the cadouri that was perhaps the bravest of them all before he offered, “If there is anything in particular that you would like me to research prior to entering Slag’s Deep, Madam Albarech, let me know.”

He quite enjoyed a good adventure and being in the field nowadays, but research was his first and greatest passion and the field that he truly excelled in. For that reason, he didn’t follow Zana’s, Nir’wei’s or Bao’s example and volunteer to go down there as well. He’d be much more useful above ground. Where others had to work for breaks or more, he’d be able to find out the necessary information within bits – and know exactly what was needed.

Nir’wei shared his concerns regarding establishing the museum in the former Badlands. He was, he had to admit, curious about what had given Zana that particular idea.

When the discussion turned to the matter of the dead Immortals once more, Doran inclined his head very lightly before he said, “Thank you. You are of course all invited to the service of remembrance that I mentioned”, he added. That seemed the proper thing to do to him.

To Oram who had perhaps been the most unwilling to support his proposal, he said, "You do have a point, but the fact that Scalvoris honors all Immortals remains. It would be a very different place if that changed."

When the Accountant admitted that she’d enjoy hearing what the other Councilors thought about the second topic that he had brought up – voting – he looked around with interest.

When he heard what Woe thought, he inclined his head. He had already given the matter of his job description some thought – he had even spoken about the duties of the Devout when he had first applied – but he didn’t say it out loud. Instead, he furrowed his brow very lightly when Woe stated that the costs of the Glass Harbor would be considerable.

“I hope that you will give us more detailed numbers during the next council meeting then”, he replied in a calm and polite tone of voice when Woe said that he would make it his priority to survey and explore the expenses that would be necessary to establish the facility. He was curious as to what kind of price he thought was considerable.

Alyssia’s presence had caused some controversy, but Doran found the girl eloquent and endearing, and what more, she addressed people’s concerns and was willing to admit that it had been her fault. Of course, parts of her little speech could have been worded better, but all in all, the son of Ziell was impressed. Alyssia appeared to be quite mature.

When she waved happily to Woe, he couldn’t help but smirk a little. If she looked in his direction as well, he would nod at her before he leaned back in his seat, secretly wondering if Zana was a bit near-sighted. It was indeed strange that she had not recognized the girl that supposedly lived with Baron Devin and that she had met before.

He didn’t spend more than a few moments thinking about it though as there were other issues that were far more important.

[Kura Wolfsdotter]

Kura had never been overly fond of the council meetings, largely due to her autocratic tendencies, but they were increasingly becoming a problem of late, especially after the forging and the end of Slags Deep. Without a unifying threat, the Council had been able to turn towards more mundane affairs and been somewhat less cohesive as a result. It was to be expected, she'd seen the same thing happen to High Council in the The Eternal Empire. However, unlike Raskalarn, Kura was not an autocratic ruler and thus couldn't just tell the Council what they were doing to do and expect to be obeyed. She could deal with that, however, for as long as it took Scalvoris to grow out of this preference for democracy.

To that end, she focused on the meeting. This one was drawing to a close, and most of what was left was agreeing to what had already been decided. They were going to have the Rangers and the Elements look into the rumors as needed, Slags Deep seemed to be largely settled as Zana seemed to have no further interest in challenging her intention to go. The matter of the Glass Harbour was pretty much done until Woe had some concrete costs to present to the Council, there was the matter of the job descriptions that no one besides Woe seemed particularly keen on discussing, and Protocol for Foreign Visitors was largely to be left in Zana's hands, once the budget was sorted out between her and Shania. The Mega-Hospital discussion was done with, and left only two matters of note. The Museum and Alyssia.

The latter was discussed first and Kura nodded at Rand's point. "I had only received Alyssia's letter this mornin' and had not expected her to be here, so I'll admit to makin' the decision on the spot, where I did not have the time to inform the rest of the Council, though no, I did not plan to specifically give any instructions durin' the meetin' itself, for the very reason you described." she said, before turning back to face Zana. The other woman's comment on favoritism did bring a slight lightening to Kura's eyes, less because of the statement and more at frustration to herself for not having considered it. Though frankly, as far as she was concerned, if people got upset because she chose to tutor someone who had gone out of their way to ask for help being more involved in the government of the island, a matter that much of the island seemed to not care about, then those people could either shut up or get involved their own selves.

However, Alyssia made the decision on her own and Kura nodded at her, then gestured for Cally to follow her. Kura's own expression was somewhat pleased though, as she far preferred students that were willing to take initiative rather than just waiting on her for guidance in every matter. "It appears the young Baroness has made her own mind clear. We can discuss the propriety of havin' students or assistants on the Council floor another time, but for the sake of not havin' this meetin' take longer than necessary, let's leave at that. I do, however, apologize for any stress caused by a decision made in haste." she said, inclining her head to the Council in general.

The final matter was in regards to the Museum, and she nodded in agreement to Zana's response to Shania. "The entire purpose of the Council is to make the decisions for the whole of Scalvoris. If we were building the museum directly in either Hopetoun or Haven, then I could see discussing the matter with the leaders of the specific settlement. However, the island of Faldrass itself is governed by the Council, and what to do with the land outside of the settlements is entirely our decision to make. I only suggested asking the Faldrass Induk because the Induks may well expect us to know of deals made before their sealin', and I'd rather not have to keep Faldrass from sinkin' again." she said, her tone calm.

"As to Saoire's Dream, I have nothin' but respect for Saoire and everythin' she's done for the island. But she is not part of our government, nor is any other Immortal. If we wanted to build somethin' in the immediate vicinity of her school, then yes, we should talk to her. Otherwise, Saoire has shown no interest in direct involvement in Council matters." she said. She didn't comment on Spirit's Rest, because they flat out didn't have a say, being a business. "However, with that in mind, I think we've reached the end of all the current discussions. If no one else has anythin' to say, we could do well to call this meetin' adjourned." Kura said, her tone calm.

[Nir'wei]

Nir'weis lips thinned slightly at Zana's correction. "Considering that we still are not certain what the original cause of the Badlands were, what has happened to cause them to recede, or what they might have changed about the landscape below the surface during their time... it would only be prudent, regardless." He could only nod along to her remaining talk on the topic, hiding a slight glimmer of interest at the mention of that Dragon again. What could Draithadir tell them, and why? Would it require a personal visit? He kept his piece and avoided pointing out his ignorance any further.

Except, her next question irked him perhaps even more, and this time he didn't bother to hide it. "Insinuating?" he asked in confusion, looking around the room, noting Rand's clear interest, and forcing himself to school back and outright scowl. "You know, sometimes, it's just nice to have a talk with someone from another culture and learn more about them. Especially one that I've heard so much about, from very particular points of view, for so long that I might wonder if anyone had even bothered to consider that there might be another." Would there ever be a chance to visit the Eternal Empire without committing political suicide, given the constant swirling rumours about his allegiances? Did he even care what they thought anymore, considering that even talking with a citizen could cause such attention to immediately be cast? "If you're opening the floor to suggestions, I'd love to meet them. I was just wondering if they'd expressed any interest in return, after this whole business with Raskalarn herself during the Ascension."

He was tired. Steamed. There was no point hiding it anymore, though he did his best at least to butt out of Oram's quite reasonable disagreement on a topic that honestly made him furious just to consider - but he'd been dreading it since the meeting began, and knowing that it would come, and the likely opposition 'in the name of fairness' that could not be competed without making him look as though he simply didn't want half the Immortals of Idalos worshipped - somehow a disagreeable stance even if they were all mass-murderers, schemers, torturers and generally horrible people that the world was better rid of for good.

However, though he wanted to agree with Kura and end the meeting then and there, something compelled him to cough softly. "There is, actually, one more thing to raise." His eyes levelled straight at Rand, and he knew he'd gained a tinge of satisfaction from this. "I've heard rumours that the end of last arc, Rharne has had spottings of 'giant lizards' many times larger than their Storm Rocs, and our Enormowls, settling somewhere in the Stormwastes. There's good reason to believe that these are the Jacadons of Rynmere, finding a new permanent home after their forced evacuation of Rynmere. I also haven't heard anything about Rharne taking advantage of this windfall." His eyes slid to Zana, looking for any sign of confirmation or denial, before moving swiftly on. "Rynmere highly restricted access to them with extremely good reason. One, in the right or the wrong hands, makes a mockery of the Air Elements. All of our Elements, actually. Whether or not Rharne actually knows what they have on their doorstep, we need one, here. If we can get a few... you have no idea what they could do for us."

His eyes moved to Zana again, but this time more pointedly. "Arrangements could be made, if necessary, for an exchange of access in return for knowledge. We teach Rharne how to control and train them in return for a few ourselves. Or, we... quietly rid them of their problem, if they're not aware what these things are." He didn't think them that dumb, but then, from what he understood, they'd had quite a lot of time to do whatever they would with these new arrivals, and they'd been content to leave them in peace, as if the criminal underworld wouldn't seize an advantage with both hands. "Either way would be a political disaster waiting to happen if something went wrong. But... I can't stress how important this is. These things turn us into a joke. Even now, if I'm not mistaken, there is no full fighting force of Sohr Khal riders in the Air Elements, some of the fastest individual-rider mounts known on this side of the world. They haven't dealt with the Ishkahl for arcs."

This could backfire, he knew it - but it was worth it. Honestly, it was more worth it than anything he'd said thus far in his tenure - to give a chance to put his skills where they'd make the most visible impact. "The same thing could be said of the Earth and Water divisions. Mergala Equestors hunt the shores but run in droves from the Northern Sea Wolves. Hafrein riders and mounted Valcyon cavalry are trounced, ten times out of ten, by a casually wandering Colossithecus, or by Naekarr. We're afraid of our own lands and everything in it due to a failure to adapt and use what this land has given us to our advantage. I think this needs to change. The resurgence of Jacadon, whoever sits on them, needs to remind us that compared to our allies, and to our enemies, we still have a long way to go before we can match up to them and what they bring to the table. Maybe we should look at that, before we start eyeing the Eternal Empire and flinching every time their names are mentioned."

[Avalon]

Hot Cycle 722
~~1st Ymiden 722~~

Slag's Deep

Woe verbalized his desire to assist in the expedition to Slag's Deep, and Zana reiterated hers. A few people raised their eyebrows at the directness of the comment, but nothing was said until Oram spoke up regarding the matter and replied to Zana's offer himself.

No one else seemed to have anything additional to add to the matter, so the Council moved on.

Alyssia

The young Baroness' position in the room caused quite a bit of conversation, concluding with her addressing the Council, taking a seat in the gallery, and Kura addressing the specifics after she had done so. Zana had some pointed follow-up that led to an exchange between the two.

The councilors listened to the two women and young teenager, yet only one chose to speak up in response – Rand. Giving Alyssia a small smile, he spoke gently to her – or as gently as a military man could. "Thank you for your words. I would, in the future, be mindful not to speak for others when it is not your place to do so." It was something the military beat into a person, that philosophy, and if the trial was indeed about the young girl learning, it was a valuable lesson to pass on.

Dead Immortals

The debate regarding honoring the fallen Immortals continued, although Oram was the only councilor that spoke out against the idea. The Devout responded to the remarks, concluding the discussion for the moment with all the other councilors falling silent or choosing not to address the matter.

Glass Harbor

Woe expanded on the idea, citing the logic behind another set of sets in Egilrun and agreeing to bring more concrete numbers forward regarding the proposal. The Council, on the whole, seemed optimistic regarding it, with Doran expressing publicly his interest in seeing the financial numbers when they became available.

Voting/Job Descriptions/Etc

The Egg addressed the voting procedure, although he seemed to be the only one still keen on discussing the matter that the Devout originally brought up. His comments appeared to support Shania's remarks, but since others seemed to have no further insight into the case, other conversations moved forward.

Museum on Faldrass

Shania quietly listened as others weighed in on the proposal for the Faldrass museum. As always, her face was impassive save for an occasional eyebrow raise. Zana directly addressed a remark of hers regarding looping people on Faldrass in, to which the councilor replied. "I said, 'loop them in on how we decide to move forward.' I didn't say consult them regarding the proposal. I submitted that they might wish to help considering our, I thought, commitment to collaboration that we discussed at the previous meeting, considering its an area that is being repopulated."

Kura also seemed to miss the point of her comment, but Shania had said all she was prepared to say on the matter and fell silent, noting her reply to Zana regarding Saoire's Dream.

Foreign Affairs clarified a few points, especially regarding comments made by Nir'wei. To this, the other councilors remained silent, watching the back and forth with interest.

Rand, who had been mostly quiet, taking in what was said around him, found himself addressed by Zana as well. "Well, that's part of my point. We don't know specifically why the Badlands formed or if they'll return, what's left behind or what's in the remaining parts. It would be unfortunate if a museum were established and consumed by a resurgence. 'More or less' is a very non-specific term, wouldn't you agree? What if the recession of the Badlands left a new threat behind? My point is caution, and the variables are considerable, but I support the idea as a proposal." His voice was calm and collected as he attempted to explain his viewpoint. Additionally, it appeared that he and Natural Affairs were on similar pages as Nir'wei followed up with his own thoughts on the matter.

Leaving it at that, the Devout had a question for Zana regarding the location, but beyond that, all seemed in favor of moving forward with the proposal.

Nir'wei's New Business

While everyone else seemed keen to wrap up, Natural Affairs brought another matter to the table - a lengthy one. It was uncommon for Nir'wei to expand at length regarding an issue, so when he did, the others took notice.

All the councilors seemed intrigued by his idea, if their body language was anything to go by. Shania's voice, however, was the one that broke the silence after he finished speaking. "I think that is a worthy idea, councilor. I'd hate to see it not given due consideration since I think it deserves a chance to be fully explored. Perhaps another meeting can be set to discuss the proposal in full?"

Conclusion:

Shania gathered the votes from those present and tallied them quickly, announcing the results.

"The following three proposals are approved:

- Establishing new protocols for foreign visitors, which the Foreign Affairs councilor will spearhead.
- Opening negotiations with Desnind to increase our links there, spearheaded by the Foreign Affairs councilor."
- Pursuing the possibility of the museum in the former Badlands on Faldrass, also to be headed by Foreign Affairs."

Kura called for the adjournment of the meeting, and with that, the Council session came to a close.

Scheduled Meetings -

• 22nd Ymiden (Agenda TBA)

Info & Rules

• The floor is now open for non-council members to speak
• It's really hard to know if people are putting something forward for discussion or voting, so WHEN you are ready for something to go to a vote, please, please, pretty please put an OOC at the bottom of your post that states the precise proposal so I know its time for voting. I really appreciate it!
• I'm still messing with the format of posts, trying to find something that makes these in-depth posts work better for everyone. If you have suggestions, please let me know.
• Please know that if your pc doesn't comment or react to what other pcs/npcs are saying, there's little for me to work with and npcs will respond appropriately.
• I try to hit everything that comes up in pc posts but I will often overlook something. Please let me know if this happens - it's not intentional.

Objectives & Knowledge

• Please be identifying skills and up to three knowledges per post. It will benefit you to do so.

~~Current Roles, Reputations & Rumours~~

Below is a list of Council Members. Each council member starts with a Neutral reputation and 1 rumour. In-character actions will impact that reputation and create / change rumours.

Name	Role	Reputation	Rumours
Kura	Alberach	Neutral	Always there during big trouble, but is she the one causing the trouble? People want to see her out and about in Scalvoris doing things. Why is she hiding?
Nir'wei	Natural Affairs	Neutral	Rumors has it that Nir'wei was booted as a Baron by Saoire, and that his inactivity as a councilor is by design to weaken Scalvoris.
Bao	Welfare	Good	There are rumours that Bao is actually Saoire's MB son. He hasn't been seen doing much lately, so public opinion is beginning to slide a bit.
Oram	Chief Ranger	Good	There are rumours that Oram is a were-bear who can turn into a bear at will.
Rand	Militant	Good	There are rumours that Rand is actually a Yludih necromancer
Shania	Accountant	Good	There are rumours that Shania is a mortalborn
Marcelle	Trainer	Neutral	There are rumours that Marcelle is incompetent and in way over her head in politics
Francis	Merchant	Neutral	There are rumours that Francis is having an affair with Brandel
Jo'ne	Almundian	Neutral	There are rumours that Jo'ne is secretly part of an underground group of criminals
Leigh	Proper	Neutral	There are rumours that Leigh used to be a Rynmere noble
Doran	Devout	Good	There's rumors that Doran once held Syroa's mark
Woe	Egg	Good	There are rumors that Woe is an assassin and has murdered several people
Zana	Foreign Affairs	Good	There are rumors that there's bad blood between Zana and Shania dating back to Zana's residency in Gunvorton
Vacant	Harvardeen	N/A	N/A
Vacant	Academic	NA	NA
Vacant	Darbytonian	NA	NA
Vacant	Gunvortonian	NA	NA

~~NPC Roles & Existing Vacancies~~

Each of the tabs below is an existing role on the Scalvoris Council which is NOT filled by a PC.

~ Where there is an NPC in there, they are currently in the role.
~~~ If the role is identified as Vacant, that NPC is willing to move out / on.
~~~ If the role is NOT identified as Vacant, the NPC wishes to stay - but that doesn't mean that PCs can't take over, it'll just be more of a struggle.

~ If there is no NPC there, the role is currently empty.

Militant

Name: Rand Broson
Race: Sev'ryn / Human
Age: Born 667
Title: Militant of Scalvoris Council / Militant of Elemental
Skills: NA: Prophet only NPC. You don't need to know!
Other Information: Rand is a hard, fair man. He doesn't speak much as he believes that you learn a lot more by listening than you ever will by talking. He is the head of the Scalvoris Military (the Elements) and he is very proud of that job. A hard working man, he tends towards solitude and does not make friends easily. He has a temper, as his troops will attest and he will not back down when he believes he is right.

!	Message from: Peg
	Rand is well-respected and has brought the Elements back from the brink of a very negative situation following the Scalvoris Docks Collapse. He would be very difficult to get out of his role and replace

Accountant

Name: Shania
Race: Unknown
Age: Unknown
Title: Gunvorton Overseer / Accountant of the Scalvoris Council.
Skills: Unknown
Other Information: If there is one thing which everyone agrees on, it is that Shania is a nice lady. Friendly, helpful and always willing to help out, she is the backbone of the growing region on Gunvorton. She knows everyone, it seems, and she's always there should anyone need a little bit of information. She runs the local inn and it is her job, as she tells everyone, to make sure that all who come to her establishment leave just a little bit happier.

!	Message from: Peg
	Shania is almost universally liked and seems to be a genuinely lovely individual. She would be very difficult to get out of this role and replace

Trainer

Vacancy for PC

!

Message from: Peg

Current Role is held by: Name: Marcelle Tren Race: Mixed Blood Age: Born 687 Title: Trainer of Scalvoris Council Skills: NA: Prophet only NPC. You don't need to know! Other Information: An educator of children by trade, Marcelle would be the first person to tell you that she is out of her depth in this whole Council thing. But she's doing her best and she has a sharper mind than she gives herself credit for. She is a passionate teacher and a friendly woman. Also, she isn't afraid of conflict and has the skills of managing a classroom of five arc olds. Veteran soldiers have quivered and quaked at her stare.

!	Message from: Peg
	Marcelle is well-respected and friendly, but she doesn't want this job. She would be relatively easy to get out of this role and replace as long as her replacement makes sense.

Merchant

Name: Francis LeShard
Race: Mixed Blood
Age: Born 687
Title: Merchant of Scalvoris Council
Skills: NA: Prophet only NPC. You don't need to know!
Other Information: Francis is a shrewd businesswoman who is here representing the Merchants' Guild. Really that is exactly and only who she is representing. She has worked as a businesswoman throughout the north and east of Idalos and her bottom line is the profit. She is nice, friendly and polite to everyone. She would also sell her grandmother for the right price.

!	Message from: Peg
	Francis is a respected member of the Merchants Guild, although there are some suggestions that she is too reluctant for change. She would be very difficult to get out of this role and replace for anyone not in the Merchants' Guild. For those in it, much easier.

Almundian

Name: Jo'ne Tide
Race: Mixed Blood
Age: Born 691
Title: Almund Representative of Scalvoris Council
Skills: NA: Prophet only NPC. You don't need to know!
Other Information: Jo'ne is the Mayor of Almund. Her father was a pirate and his father before him. Her mother was a whore and her grandmother a drug dealer and the bane of the seas. Jo'ne is a foul mouthed, tobacco chewing woman who will take no nonsense from anyone. [/mod]

!	Message from: Peg
	Jo'ne is well-liked in Almund and considered a "true" Almundian. She would be very difficult to get out of this role and replace

Proper

Name: Leigh Birch
Race: Human
Age: Born 693
Title: Scalvoris Town Representative of Scalvoris Council
Skills: NA: Prophet only NPC. You don't need to know!
Other Information: Leigh is the Mayor of Scalvoris Proper. She lives there and has her offices there. She is a friendly and very well organised woman who is keen to listen to all of the opinions on offer. She has trouble sometimes as she can have a bit of a tendency to avoid conflict, but that just means that she sits back and doesn't take sides. It certainly doesn't mean that she's lacking opinions.

!	Message from: Peg
	Leigh is well-respected but some see her as not active enough. She would be relatively easy to get out of this role and replace

Academic

Vacancy for PC

Harvardeen

Vacancy for PC

Darbytonian

Vacancy for PC

Gunvortonian

Vacancy for PC

~~This Season~~

The following represent the five most pressing situations on Scalvoris, as seen by the populace - they are presented as quotes, but in truth are things you might hear throughout Scalv. Acting (or not) on these will impact the Council reputation - and that of the individuals within it - next cycle.

!	Message from: Council
	"How many people on the council are Mortalborn? There's that Zana...but are there others? Are the Immortals trying to influence the Council?"

!	Message from: Law & Order
	"What the beneath is going on in Slag's Deep? Why are things being moved out of it - wasn't it abandoned? Does anyone care?"

!	Message from: Economy
	"We need to have some kind of push in the Merchants' Guild or something! We make the best glass and so on in Idalos! Why isn't it more famous? Scalvoris needs to be more wealthy!"

!	Message from: Pirates
	"What's going on with all the Pirate activity?!? Are the Pirates Lords coming back?"

!	Message from: Council Inactivity
	"There are people on the Council that aren't doing anything! Is there a way to remove them? The Council seems unwilling to remove people, even if they aren't doing a damn thing and taking up space!"

The focus for the Council this season is

!	Message from: Council Focus
	Trade & Religion

Next Council reply will be on July 16th, 2022.

Previous Council Meetings

[Avalon]

This was a fantastic Council thread! I know that they are a huge amount of work for pcs so I appreciate you all hanging in there. Hopefully the system being put into place will streamline a lot of what made these threads difficult and give you a better framework going forward!

Enjoy your rewards! (XP & Renown have already been auto-awarded through the new system but please, please check and make sure it all shows up right! As an aside, I awarded this as a 'Scalveen' thread for anyone that would like to claim that.)

Kura

Overview

Lots of things going on and Kura's trying to manage them all! I enjoyed Kura trying to sort the issue with Alyssia - it's not often an issue is so directly pointed at her - and move on. I particularly liked how she noted that the way the council does things rubs against her own political leanings, and the differences within those two ideals. Great writing!

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge
Politics x5
Leadership x5
Discipline x 3
Etiquette x 2

Doran

Overview

Doran is always fascinating to read. I've found it enjoyable to follow his path on the council and note the subtle changes. He's always been an observer, but moreso, it seems, now. He watches, thinks and takes a lot of factors into consideration before speaking. Politics is a strange, strange beast and Doran using his skills to figure out the best way to approach things makes for a great read! Great writing!

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge

Politics: Additional x2
Politics: It’s important to clarify which matters require a vote
Politics: When making a proposal, it’s important to keep local customs in mind
Politics: Perception is an important part of politics
Leadership x3
Discipline x4
Etiquette x 2
Detection: Noticing minor signs of stress on someone’s face

Nir'wei

Overview

Nir'wei and politics - always a good time! I'm always fascinated by his internal insights, which somehow always threaten to become external given the right factors. I was very happy to see him pop up at the end and make a proposal - make sure you follow up with that. I think that always impresses me with Nir'wei is his inner struggles during situations that he's not comfortable in and trying to figure out ways to get through them. It's how you write those subtleties that gives Nir depth, and it's great! Great writing!

Just a side note - You've still got some skills on your skill chart that were affected by the skill scale down. See here for information.

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge
Politics x5
Leadership x5
Discipline x 3
Etiquette x 2

Oram

Overview

Oram realllllllly hates council meetings - that's clear. I'm not sure anyone would argue with him on that point! I always enjoy his thoughts and this meeting was one that broached a subject he had very firm opinions on. Oram has always been a man with an open mind, willing to take in other viewpoints, but in the case of honoring the fallen Immortals, he's very set and for good reason. It was great to see him take that stand despite pushback, and with him being fully aware that his opinion would probably not be a popular one. Great writing!

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge
Politics: Additional x4
Politics: One man's enemy is another Naerykk's protector
Leadership: Additional x4
Leadership: Being a leader means you have to care about things that are important to your followers, even if they aren’t important to you.
Discipline: Additional x1
Discipline: Shutting up before you get too mad
Etiquette: How to say no without saying no
Intelligence: Some secrets need to be kept even from friends.
Logistics: Cost matters

Zana

Overview

Zana has proven she's more than up to the task of being councilor! She continues to be a force of nature, making a lot of the other councilors seem downright ineffective. In some cases, she's thinking fast on her feet but that skills is totally in her wheelhouse and it makes her all the more impressive when dealing with seasoned counselors. For me, what sets her apart is that, in most things, pcs tend to be either subtle or overt with how the react to situations, but Zana easily slips from one to the other, quickly assessing what is needed for that particular scenario and providing it. Lines up with her past experience and is great fun to read! Fantastic writing!

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge
Politics: Additional x2
Politics: thought about it for a moment, allowing her mind to consider it carefully.
Politics: Speak to the right person to find out key information
Politics: Learn the boundaries of your role quickly
Leadership x5
Discipline: Additional x2
Discipline: Trying to keep irritation out of your voice is hard
Etiquette x 1
Detection: Pay attention to overcome a lack of awareness

Bao Bao

Overview

Bao is always an important part of Council meetings, even though he generally is very reserved and quiet. He offers a 'light touch' on subjects, which sometimes is sorely needed. I always enjoy reading his thoughts and how he questions the events around him, comparing them with his own experiences and viewpoints. We need more Bao! Enjoy your rewards!

Points

XP:15
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

2 Posts - 10 Knowledge
Politics x3
Leadership x3
Discipline x 2
Etiquette x 2

Woe

Overview

Woe, like Zana, is another pc that has the very unique ability to float between being overt and subtle. His motives are sometimes very difficult to pin down, which is totally on par with the pc. I appreciate the tiny nuances you add when writing him - he's an onion with lots of layers, and that comes through loud and clear. It's interesting to watch him navigate working in concert with others as sometimes I think he prefers being a lone wolf and doing things his way. I look forward to seeing his continued growth in the role! Awesome work!

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge
Politics x5
Leadership x5
Discipline x 3
Etiquette x 2

Alyssia

Overview

One thing I wanted to mention is my concern regarding Alyssia's arrival at the council meeting on her dragonling. Alyssia is novice animal husbandry/training/flying/strength/endurance/navigation, and the flight from Faldrass to Almund is substantial. Realistically, it's unlikely she would have been able to make that trip. Going forward, please take this into account. =-)

Alyssia is a fish out of water, trying to do the best she can. She had a few stumbles, so it will be interesting to see how she addresses those moving forward. I enjoyed reading how she interpreted everything going on and tried her best to meet the challenges being presented! Great writing!

Points

XP:20
Renown: 10

Loot

N/A

Knowledge

3 Posts - 15 Knowledge
Politics x5
Etiquette x5
Detection x 2
Socialization x 3

All Players

• Language: Scalveen

Alyssia

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Politics: x5
  • Etiquette: x5
  • Detection: x2
  • Socialization: x3

Woe

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Politics: x5
  • Leadership: x5
  • Discipline: x3
  • Etiquette: x2

Zana

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Detection: Pay attention to overcome a lack of awareness
  • Politics: thought about it for a moment, allowing her mind to consider it carefully.
  • Politics: Speak to the right person to find out key information
  • Politics: Learn the boundaries of your role quickly
  • Discipline: Trying to keep irritation out of your voice is hard
  • Leadership: x5
  • Discipline: x2
  • Etiquette: x1
  • Politics: x2

Kura Wolfsdotter

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Politics: x5
  • Leadership: x5
  • Discipline: x3
  • Etiquette: x2

Oram Mednix

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Intelligence: Some secrets need to be kept even from friends.
  • Leadership: Being a leader means you have to care about things that are important to your followers, even if they aren’t important to you.
  • Logistics: Cost matters
  • Politics: One man's enemy is another Naerykk's protector
  • Discipline: Shutting up before you get too mad
  • Etiquette: How to say no without saying no
  • Discipline: x1
  • Politics: x4
  • Leadership: x4

Doran

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Detection: Noticing minor signs of stress on someone’s face
  • Politics: It’s important to clarify which matters require a vote
  • Politics: When making a proposal, it’s important to keep local customs in mind
  • Politics: Perception is an important part of politics
  • Politics: x2
  • Leadership: x3
  • Discipline: x4
  • Etiquette: x2

Nir'wei

• Renown: 10
• XP: 20
• Knowledges:
  • Politics: x5
  • Leadership: x5
  • Discipline: x3
  • Etiquette: x2

Bao Bao

• Renown: 10
• XP: 15
• Knowledges:
  • Politics: x3
  • Leadership: x3
  • Discipline: x2
  • Etiquette: x2

Review Stamp: