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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 5, 2016 13:20:19 GMT -6
It’s been weeks since the attack on your homeland, and now that things are finally beginning to settle, the time has come to judge those who caused you and your people so much hardship. The council, Trinity, and the War Forged ambassador have gathered together for the trial of the pegasi terrorists who were apprehended during the attack. Their fates rest in your hooves. Will you show mercy, or will you make an example out of them for their treasonous actions?
Event Journal//
Premise Journal// Hello Starborn, and welcome to Plot 201: Day of ReckoningTeam Leader: Thaumas Co-Leader: Eve Participants: Rycaron, Nagisa, Cethin, Ollin, Naveen, Fijalahr Post Frequency: Multiple times weekly
Please keep the following in mind!- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum! - No strict order is enforced, but there must be at least two posts between your own character's posts. - AP/CS/FVR Rewards are based on the post frequency you signed up for. Check the chapter journal for earnings! - If the post frequency you signed up for is faster than the plot is designated, you can either revert to the lower amount, or commit to posting more than the others. - If the post frequency you signed up for is slower than the plot is designated, you can bump up to the faster speed if you choose, but you're still only required to do the speed you signed up with. - Your team is precious. Don't let anyone feel left behind! Try to interact with everyone. <3 - Have fun! Even if your pony isn't. 8'D
Once the team leader has posted, you may begin posting as well! |
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 5, 2016 14:34:25 GMT -6
Thaumas Anereus
Talori Defender
As concessions go, Thaumas Anereus knew that these were not the worst he could've made, and yet still the burly Defender could not entirely stop the left corner of his mouth from twitching in displeasure when he considered the task at hand. Or rather, when he considered the gilded chains of public relation binding his movement at every turn with regard to the task at hand. The Day of Reckoning had finally come for the winged thugs who'd invaded the palace all those many moons ago, just after the Solstice Celebration. Thaumas Anereus had argued his piece previously for putting them to death and having done with the business, but as evidenced by his presence in the grand council chambers here today, his wishes had not been granted. Somewhere deep below, through dank stone tunnels linking prison dungeons with the palace court, Thaumas Anereus knew that the terrorists were being led skyward to their fate. They would be brought here, before God and the country they'd so desperately tried to destroy, to meet whatever end the High Council chose for them. And there you have it: the two concessions Thaumas had been forced to make. First, the idea that (even if it was just for the sake of ceremony) deliberation still remained to be had on the subject of the attackers' fitting punishment, and second, that such deliberation was required to take place in front of any member of the law-abiding public who had a fancy to attend the proceedings. For a horse who'd spent his life specializing in circumstances, not in people, the prospect of today's events was a startling reminder of just how difficult it was for Thaumas Anereus to relate to others, and to empathize. But for now, in the early cool of morning while the heavy wooden doors still sealed the vast interior of the grand chambers from the prying eyes of the public, the Defender took solace in two things. The first was the satisfaction of having drilled his remaining Guardians (because of course the idea of Daemyn pained him, even if that pain never made it past his stone-faced expression) so thoroughly in their combative and observational skills that he was certain any of them would rather die than disappoint him today. The second was the presence of the other faces in the largely empty hall, as all but two of them Thaumas knew and trusted. There was Rycaron, the Sage, and the closest thing to a brother Thaumas might ever know; Eve, the Divine, the Lips from which their Mother spoke; Councillor Ollin, a wise and aged stallion with judiciary experience Thaumas respected and admired; Councillor Cethin, a bastion of stoic resolve and sound instinct; and Councillor Nagisa, another old friend and a veritable font of female wisdom. Additionally, he saw Councillor Naveen, a new promotion Thaumas did not know particularly well but of whom he had heard only praise, and Fijalahr, the strong young War-Forged Ambassador who'd managed to begin his career as a diplomat at perhaps the most inopportune moment in Talorian history. Absent from the usual representation of Talori government were only two faces: the Councillor Cadena, and Emperor Hawkeye himself. Thaumas was hard-pressed to worry about Cadena, as they had never quite gotten along and she was apparently taking care of some unfinished business in her district far from the tension of Inaria, but the Defender simply couldn't flush his Emperor's noble face from his mind's eye. The young ruler had told his Trinity only that he needed to attend to a matter of some great importance, and had declined to give any other information. The enigma of it unsettled Thaumas. Security does not lend itself well to scant details, and on such an auspicious date, the burly stallion would have much rather preferred the Emperor never leave his side -- deep breath exhale -- but as you are already aware, Thaumas's wishes have not been granted this day. Deep breath."Our number is complete," he said to them. His deep, heavy voice sank through the air and rolled. Thaumas Anereus's teal blue eyes roved over the faces in the room. "And we are all agreed: we understand our purpose here today?" [Post 1 l Word Count: 701] |
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 5, 2016 16:16:14 GMT -6
Checkpoint 1// Once everyone is seated the doors will be opened to the public allowing the simple folk in to see the trial of the decade. The prisoners will be ushered in once the crowd has been brought to order, and the trial will begin. |
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Post by Dream-Lark on Aug 6, 2016 9:00:13 GMT -6
Rycaron | The Sage
Calm, unruffled, dignified, tranquil as a still pool. These are the things Rycaron personified as he took his place between the Defender and Divine, dipping his head to them in a friendly and polite greeting. He looked like he has slept well, was freshly bathed, and not a hair or pearl was out of place on his being. An impassive diplomat's mask was secured on features. He was born to do this. Nervous, fretful, worried, a small pond tossed by wind. These are the emotions truly gripping the Sage as he focused on breathing and keeping his mask locked into place. It felt as if someone had released a flock of songbirds in his torso, fluttering about in his stomach, ribs, and heart. He may have voted for this type of public trial, knowing it was against Thaumas' wishes, but feeling it would be best for the herd to actually see what became of the would have been assassins. To show that their plan to create Torrine as a safe place for those being unjustly targeted, but also for pegasi suspected of treason. To reveal this plan wasn't unfounded, for before the herd would be shown the three feathered attackers, the very real threat to the Talorian government.
It didn't mean Rycaron actually liked dealing with the whole scenario, however, nor the chaos and noise expected to ensue. He would much rather have caved to the Defender's demand to execute the terrorists, and be done with it. It was the only fitting punishment he could think of.
Thoughts about said various courses of action coursed through his mind like a white water river, as aqua gaze shifted about those present. Gaze was full of approval and trust as it shifted over Defender, Divine, Ollin, Cethin, and Nagisa. These equines had been tested and tried, he knew them fairly well as a whole and considered their opinions deeply. Naveen was newer on the Council, though Rycaron had high hopes for him. Digging through the hippocampus' past had revealed nothing bad, so to speak, and only good things had been heard of him recently. Rycaron looked forward to working with him more often. Fijalahr, on the other hoof, was the one equine Rycaron wished didn't have to tangled up in this mess. The poor ambassador had been dumped here at quite the inopportune time, and while the Sage had filled him in on all necessary details, he didn't fully know the younger stallion. Hopefully he had a quick mind, could keep his calm, and didn't cause an international debacle. However, considering how hardy and nearly barbaric most of the War-Forged culture seemed...perhaps the seemingly inevitable sentencing would not be out of the ordinary for the other, even if Fijalahr didn't personify the typical stereotypes.
Only two equines were missing from the trial today, two that gnawed upon the golden hippocampus' mind. Cadena, though truth be told he didn't really miss her. But what could be more important than being here today? And the other was their dear Emperor, who while not needed to be here, his recent absences worried Rycaron to no end--something he shared with Thaumas. Why was he withdrawing from them so much? What was happening that Rycaron didn't know about?
Endless river of thought was brought to an end as Thaumas' deep voice resounded through the chamber. Instead of speaking up and verbally responding, the Sage simply dipped his head, signaling his understanding and preparedness for the coming ordeal.
WC//581 | Post 1
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Post by posy-punch on Aug 6, 2016 11:49:10 GMT -6
C E T H I N C A S I M I R
The Day of Reckoning. The assassins brought to sit in front of a court made up of horses they had specifically disrupted. It was amusing to think about, for the calm Council member. Nothing betrayed Cethin's inner turmoil, his face impassive. His eyes piercing, as they always were, scanning the rest of the Council. Nagisa was respectable, though Cethin was not too familiar with her besides what they did with the Council together. Rycaron the Sage was a calm face, one that Cethin could find agreement with. Someone who could sway Cethin's opinion should he speak with truth. The horse was a natural-born diplomat. Then there was Thaumas, who held much of Cethin's respect, the burly horse had proven himself to the previously more indifferent Cethin. Among the others, Ollin, who was well respected but foreign to Cethin, and Naveen who was new, but had not given the black stallion any reason to judge him yet. The only horse Cethin, and the others, seemed worried for was Fijalahr, the diplomat from Warforged. Luck to him, this would be... interesting to say the least. Cethin dipped his head to all that were present, noticing that Cadena was not with them, but he couldn't have cared less. She spoke out of line. Of the other missing, the Emperor himself, withdrawing from the public eye slowly but surely. In the back of his mind, the black stallion worried for his leader. This worry, however, was replaced by the stallion's turmoil about the trial. As much as Cethin could hate these pegasi, he was not unjust. He would treat them as any other horse would be treated despite his simple hate for each of them. He took his place, next to Fijalahr and Naveen, and dipped his head to the rest of the party, his eyes softening as he settled himself. He was well groomed, taking the time to comb out much of his short mane and forelock, which now shined in delicate curls and waves. His coat was neatly trimmed and his beard tidied up in the slightest. "And we are all agreed: we understand our purpose here today?" That would be correct, to judge the assassins in front of the public. Cethin nodded crisply, showing that he was ready despite not speaking up. He noticed first that the Sage had done the same. Let them be on the same wavelength then. Cethin was ready for the trial to begin.///407 WordsI placed Cethin next to Naveen in Fijalahr, if anyone wants me to switch it around, however, I will. |
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Aug 6, 2016 20:02:51 GMT -6
Naveen had awoken quite early in preparation for the trial. Before anything else, he prayed. He prayed long and hard, seeking comfort with the wave-mother over what was to follow later in the day. With the attacks following the sacrifices still fresh in his mind, Naveen found himself perhaps a little too eager for this day. It was to be a day of reckoning, a day upon which the council, trinity, and Talori’s recently appointed War-Forged ambassador would decide the fate of three captured (and feathered) dissenters. Each had played a part in the attacks and each would pay equally for their crimes against Talori.
A strong dislike for the pegasi harbored within Naveen. Before the attacks, Naveen’s hatred had been more along the lines of a strong dislike. He had done business with pegasi, had normal (but limited) conversations. But oh, how easily things could change. Now he couldn’t stand to be in the presence of a pegasi. Such loathsome creatures. In his eyes, they were foul beings, unworthy of living within Cascade’s lands and taking her precious resources. He would show no mercy to their kin today while the dissenters stood for trial. A rebellion had stirred because of their belief that the sacrifices were cruel and unnecessary, chaos swept across Talori, and nearly tore the herd apart. What mercy could he show them for attacking his beloved home? They deserved nothing but death!
Naveen was new to council, and was thus aware that his voice would not hold as much strength as the other council members or the trinity. He had used Talori’s state of chaos to secure his position in council, promising to bring relief efforts to those who needed it, and to see retribution upon those who wronged Talori. And he intended to keep his word. He could only hope that his ideas of retribution would align with the other councilors ideas.
While he was not overly concerned with Cadena’s absence, he was concerned with the Emperor. Naveen had heard word that Hawkeye had other, more pressing matters that demanded his attention. It wasn't necessary for the emperor to attend trials, but he felt as though this trial would be an important one for all to attend. He prayed the emperor to be safe in whatever he may be doing.
His gaze moved to Thaumas upon hearing the Defender’s deep voice. “Yes, Defender,” he replied with a nod.
WC: 403
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Post by Chipo-H0P3 on Aug 7, 2016 3:20:55 GMT -6
Nagisa Marinus
Nagisa’s heart pounded in anticipation for the trial. All the emotions she felt on that infamous day, three months ago, gathered again, today, in the swell of her chest. She hadn’t been there for the attack on the palace, but instead had been whisked away when the mobs broke out to be escorted safely back to her estate far in the country. That day, Nagisa had felt much sadness and distress but it was rage that had mostly consumed her. Rage toward the violent and unruly crowd that rampaged through her beautiful city. Rage toward the guardian that dared to pull her away from it. Rage toward herself for giving into her fear and fleeing with him. It was enough to boil blood. And it only increased when she got word of the terror that had transpired in the council room. Her first thoughts were, I should have been there. I should have been there to help my brother, country and God’s blessed Divine.But instead, she had been useless, hours away, tucked safely within the walls of her house. She didn’t know what she could have done had she been there, (maybe convince the council to move the town of undesirables a little farther away from her neighborhood) but the lack of control over the situation gnawed at her very core relentlessly ever since. And that is why Nagisa voted to try the attempted assassins despite the obvious call for a swift military style execution. She needed to have some control over what was happening. She needed to see the faces of the villains that dared to threaten the security of her beloved family and country. She needed to be a part of their punishment and see first hand that justice had been served. A death behind closed doors was not satisfying enough. In her mind she resolved that her heated, selfish desires coincided with her cool and composed logic (which she would be fronting for the duration of the trial). Aqoure needed this trial as much as she did. Like herself the public needed to see what was happening, to know that their leaders were effective, understand that the established system worked and held their best interest, and most of all, they needed to be the messengers to all who have the nerve to align themselves with the Flock and spread the word that the Talori do not tolerate terrorists. Nagisa took her seat looking very stern and dignified. Like the other judges, she took extra care in looking her best for the proceeding. She studied each of their faces briefly, each one a symbol of order among the utter turmoil and confusion, then lowered her head in brief prayer. Benevolent Ocean Mother, let your light guide and protect us all. Watch over my brother and help us see that these anarchists be put to rest.She opened her eyes again to the Defender’s call and answered with a prompt, “Yes.” She understood entirely why she was here. WC: 500
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Post by ebbarie on Aug 7, 2016 6:25:35 GMT -6
Fijalahr | The Ambassador Oh Kaia, great mother of earth give me the strength to get through this.
Disbelief, perplexity, denial. That were the first emotions he had when they told him that he would be a judge. Not just a silent guest, standing like a shadow behind the important people, but truly involved in the trials. The stallion was still confused about the fact that he should judge about the lives of strangers. Sure, he was aware that his opinion would count little compared to the opinion of the others, but still… He was still a stranger, with hardly any knowledge about the herd. The Ambassador had arrived in Aquore after the rebellion and he was completely knew to the conflict between Pegasi and the remaining herd members. The Sage did his best to give the Forged a short recap about the recent events. Together with the things that Thaumas had told him before, he was well enough informed to understand at least for which crime the Pegasi will be accused. There misdemeanor was terrible enough to gather the most influential together to decide their fate. "And we are all agreed: we understand our purpose here today?"
The bassy voice of the defender rolled through the air and put an end to Fijalahrs thoughts. With one blink he was aware of the things around him, instead of what was going on in his mind. Slowly the dark stallion turned his head to take a look at the horses around him. Rycarion did his best to explain to him briefly who each of these horses are, so he had an approximate idea of them. They had placed him right next to two other stallions. Both displayed a resolute expression. There was a strange tension humming in the air, so many bad feelings that he reflexively turned his ears back, close to his head. No one seemed to be sad about the incident, just angry and frustrated. Slowly everyone around expressed their opinion about the Defenders words, most of them restricted the answer to a grim but resolute nod. Fihalahr followed their example and bowed his head in agreement. That was the moment he noticed that someone important was missing. Maybe it had took him so lange because he had not yet met the Emperor. The Hippocampus was still missing. Why would the herds leader exclude himself from such an important event? At itched him to know the answer to that, but he was quite sure that this was probably the worst moment to ask such questions, so the stallion remained silent and waited for the trials to begin. Wordcount : 437
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Post by Flarism on Aug 7, 2016 13:05:52 GMT -6
Ollin was conflicted. It was a highly annoying emotion and he wished greatly that it would go away. He had no patience for uncertainty, no time for confusion. Especially in these trying times.
Yet it remained.
Perhaps it was because of his dislike of change. He was older now, worn and increasingly tired, and each new year brought about a mild change. He'd barely noticed at first, but now, as he entered his golden years, it seemed a mass of unfamiliarity. Hugely annoying.
In his earlier years, he would never see a trial come to pass without their leader present. He could hardly imagine what reasons Hawkeye would have for not attending. He hoped they were good ones.
And these pegasi, bringing such violence to their holy space? He blamed it on youthful arrogance. The winged ones were supposed to know their place, not engage in such aggression. What in Cascade's name had gotten into their damn fool heads?
And Naveen. Ugh. There was something about him that rubbed Ollin the wrong way, and he couldn't quite place a hoof on it. To see an agriculturalist given rank so swiftly, and in such tumultuous times, it made the old stallion even grumpier.
But Ollin had to keep focused on his duty today. Had to keep his worries and concerns to the side, for deciding the fate of the pegasi required all of his attention. Let no viewer claim his mind was elsewhere. To Thaumas' query, Ollin dipped his finned head, "We do indeed."
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Ollin - Talori Council
Post #1 - 253 Words
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Post by Queerly on Aug 7, 2016 14:09:13 GMT -6
Thaumas’ voice broke through her thoughts as surely as the gannet plunges into the sea: unanticipated and striking. The Divine did not open her eyes so much as they noticeably snapped open and struggled to focus. Her expression was mildly bewildered, as though she’d forgotten where she was in only so many seconds, and it was this look that she passed to the Defender before reality belatedly took its grip. Eve blinked her tired eyes once, twice, and dropped her chin with bleak embarrassment.
The Divine’s duties transcended a single lifespan: Eve had lived, and died, and been reborn across the River of Time, and in each cycle she served their Wave-Mother dutifully, relaying the wisdom of a god to the people who loved Her. It was an honor, humbly accepted, its hardships obediently weathered. Yet it could be frustrating, for each cycle was a new start, and though Eve retained much from her past lives she could never seem to retain her dying aptitude with Cascade’s blessing. Clairvoyance, the gift nestled within the very fiber of her soul, was a fickle creature. Each resurrection saw it grow unruly, gracing her with visions only when and as it pleased, if indeed it chose to at all.
But these past violent months had seen her abilities grow, her visions grown more frequent… and disquieting. The Divine could not recall the last time she'd slept through the night, for her dreams were plagued with monstrosities and mayhem, bathed in shades of rouge. She would wake with fright, silvery coat slicked with sweat, and the haunting knowledge that it was not merely a nightmare. How could it be, when the same menagerie of barbarity swam across her eyes during the waking hours? And with her dear Emperor in such a poor state, she truly feared their implications.
"Yes." She echoed anemically, her thin voice joining the echo of stronger personalities.
Eve could not allow herself to be so unfocused. There was a country to run, decisions to be made, and terrorists meant to receive the comeuppance for their sins. The mare shifted her thoughts to that fateful meeting, to the memory of her proud kinsmen battling in confined space and poison seeping through her veins. Certainly, the Trinity was united in their desire to see the law upheld, and these fanatics put to a quick, deserving death. If they repented, may the Wave Mother hear their penitent prayers, and grant the rebirth that She, in all her Glory, knew was deserved.
A quick trial. The Divine was eager to see it done.
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WC: 432
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 7, 2016 22:11:55 GMT -6
Checkpoint 2// The trial has started in earnest, With the captive in full focus, now is the time to ask question and talk amongst yourselves about their fate… and what that could mean for Talori as a whole. Make sure you speak up, every voice and opinion is as valuable and necessary as the next, and can provide a unique point of view! (Note: The equines facing trial are NPC's that will be controlled by the admins, so feel free to direct questions at them and interact with them) |
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 8, 2016 19:37:28 GMT -6
Thaumas Anereus nodded his head at no one in particular, his approval stemming not only from the affirmation his colleagues offered, but also from the sombre sort of feeling in the room. They had all picked up on it, keyed into it, and embraced it -- and why wouldn't they? But he was glad for it nonetheless, because there would be no such guarantee from the general public. An air of calm assertiveness about the court would go a long way towards ensuring the same was reflected from the gallery.
"Then it is time," he said. Then, to a Guardian at the foot of the room: "Are they ready, below?"
"Nearly, sir," came the sharp reply.
"Then let us open the hall."
Another pair of guardsmen near the grand doors came to attention and used their combined strength to swing open the heavy wooden timbers. The sound of his heard floated through the air as though riding the very shafts of early morning sunlight which fell in grand curtains across the open threshold.
The crowd bubbled in, slowly and cautiously at first but with confidence after the first few waves. They were eager, and that made Thaumas nervous, because -- eager for what, exactly? There were blasphemers in Aquore, as evidenced by the wingless residents of Torrine. Then, too, there were those whose zeal for righteous bloodletting may cause more chaos in this close room than the Defender was willing to deal with after such a trying springtime, no matter how much he might agree with their motives.
As the hum of the crowd filled the room, the Defender cast one last, lingering gaze on the horses gathered beside him. With any luck (and the Sea's good graces) it would be a quick, efficient procedure. (And what a picture they all must make, too.)
With another look at his guard by the prisoners' entrance, that little side-door creaked open, the crowd quieted, and the three perpetrators were led into the generous space left open for them between those they'd wronged and those they'd wounded. They looked ragged from their time in the Talorian dungeons, and the evidence of their violent submission (and subsequently none-too-gentle treatment by the daily change of guard) glared wet and red and swollen. They were chain-hobbled on their forelegs and wings so as to prevent escape; the chains were standard-issue, and imbued so as to dampen the prisoners' own gifts. (The Aodhians could be useful when they looked up from their sinning, after all.)
"Council," said Thaumas, feeling the air thick with tension. "This case comes before you: the survivors of the insurgent force. Who shall speak to them?"
He was looking for someone to take initiative and begin a quest for admissions in his stead. He was never blessed with a silver tongue as the rest of the court had been; he alone of them (except perhaps their unfortunate War-Forged Ambassador) used his strength as the basis for his authority, rather than his vocabulary, and there was not a man Jack among them who was foolish enough to think any different.
Alas, the courtroom is not a battlefield of the body, but one of the mind.
How fortunate, then, to be surrounded by Councillors.
words: 546
notes: sorry this comes so late in the day, you guys! i tried to stick to the checkpoint, and added some guardian NPCs. i imagine there may also be a servant or two around to bring water, etc? dibs on the prisoners' appearances go to whomever wants to describe them first. |
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Post by posy-punch on Aug 8, 2016 20:44:13 GMT -6
C E T H I N C A S I M I R ❧
Cethin watched as Ollin spoke, the older stallion was perhaps one to match Cethin's... natural moodiness, and Cethin understood that much of the other Councillor. Then as Eve gave her word of affirmation, soft sounded, without an air of power behind it, but Eve's power resided within her blessing and her connection to Cascade. The dark coated stallion watched with fire colored eyes as Thaumas addressed the Guardians below the court. Watched as each one straightened up under the attention of their general, of their commander. Then as they calmly pulled open the doors. The crowd came in with due pace, but the radiating aura of energy and perhaps it was excitement radiating from the group as they came in waves to settle in the main gallery of the room. Cethin showed nothing as the crowd began to turn their muzzles up to where the Council and the Trinity sat, calmly waiting, impassive and serene. Cethin looked at the others before seeing Thaumas cast a look at them all, as if sending them the silent plea for a quick, efficient, and eventless trial before them. Then the Defender looked away and to a smaller side door. The prisoner's entrance.
Cethin turned his head then, fully to gaze on each as they were brought in. He quickly scanned them before finding the one he'd bit. Then the one that had attacked the Divine, Eve. Then locked eyes with the one that he was unfamiliar with, but recognized to have entered the room that day of the attack. They all looked worse for wear, and while Cethin looked down on the private punishment of prisoners before trial, he was indifferent to be bother with these... beatings. And for that he apologized to Cascade for, but he could not find any remorse in his heart for these mistreated individuals, for their attack had been vile and foul.
"Council, this case comes before you: the survivors of the insurgent force. Who shall speak to it?" Cethin looked out down the Council before lifting his head, a loch of black forelock falling behind his eye. "Please, in turn give us your name's and your previous places of residence." He asked this with simple respect for the prisoners, not allowing his own personal views and ideals to seep into his words; moreover, he asked this merely to learn who the dissenters were, and where they were from. Those villages or places of the city could be combed to be checked for... any plotting individuals. And, if those individuals were in Torrine, they could keep closer eye on them just by looking at house names or other documented items. This was merely a starting place to begin the rest of the questioning for the trial, and a necessary question at the least.
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478 Words
Post #2
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Post by Dream-Lark on Aug 9, 2016 17:08:53 GMT -6
Rycaron | Sage
Expression remained steady and serene as the great door swung open, the hum of milling horses immediately rolling into the room. It grew louder amidst the clipping and clopping of hooves as the crowd began to enter the great room, meekly at first, then gaining in courage. The gossip started ten fold, about what might happen, about what had happened, about what the Council looked like, the absence of the Emperor they'd hoped to get a glimpse of, of who they were going to tell because look how /close/ they were to the high ranking horses of Talori, and what good seats they had! Please, my Goddess, grant us all patience, Rycaron prayed, stifling a sigh. It was like this crowd thought they were at some entertainer's ready to see a show, than a trial for three pegasi who had tried to assassinate their leaders. But people would be people, and this was quite the exciting moment to be part of and talk about, as far as they were concerned. The terror of the previous chaos must have slipped into the back of their minds, forgotten. Ears twitched as they caught the sound of the next door opening, gaze shifting to the source of the noise. There they were. It was a much more sedate entrance than the last time had had lain eyes on them. Lips curved into an ever so faint frown, hard to see unless one was close to the stallion. He did not like the condition the three were in (not that he was displeased, he was forced to admit to himself) but he did not believe this to be proper conduct. They were already to be sentenced, and Talorian's were not barbarians. However, given the challenging looks still being issued from the prisoners...Rycaron could well see how they had acquired new bruises and welts. He could not fault the guardians there. Attention shifted to Thaumas as he called them all order and to duty, before summarily passing the reigns to someone else. Speaking was not his forte, but for Rycaron, it was. The Sage lifted his head slightly, the air of importance calling attention to him, a deep breath drawn in through his nose before he began to speak to the shushing crowd. First, they must lay the base and quell any silly rumors about to spread like fire. "As the Defender has said, we are here today to commence the trial of these three pegasi. They stand accused of infiltrating the palace and attacking the Council, Trinity, and our beloved Emperor in what we have deemed an assassination attempt. Poison was one of their weapons of choice," Rycaron intoned, mellow voice ringing out without inflection, neither condemning nor making less of their charges. He sounded simply as if he were reciting facts of something that had happened to someone else, instead of the being who had stood over his precious Divine as guard, while watching his colleagues battle these heathens. He could hear the murmurs begin to rise excitedly in 'did you hear that' choruses, repeated again and again. Details of that day had not been widely known or spread, which was partially why there was such a large crowd. They wanted to juicy details, the grains of truth that had fed the rumor spring like a swift mountain river. Yet the whole time he had been speaking, one of those pegasi, a grullo fellow with striped wings, had met Rycaron's gaze and kept it, challenging and mocking. The hippocampus had to resist the urge to lay his ears back, to remind the pegasus of his place. Disdain tugged the corner's of his lips this time, but no other emotion was allowed to be seen. This equine should not be meeting anyone's gaze, let alone initiating a staring contest with one of the Trinity. He either did not choose to know Talori custom, or he was blatantly trying to infuriate the Council. Probably the latter. Gaze shifted to Councillor Cethin as he lifted his head, motioning to speak, and Rycaron fell silent. The question asked was a natural progression, the very one that had been upon his lips. It was information that topped his list of things they needed to know, and beneath that was whatever motive or lie they chose to give them, in regard to their reasoning. But first things first, the others needed to have their voices heard. WC// 740 | Post: 2 |
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Post by Queerly on Aug 12, 2016 13:19:39 GMT -6
Chained and freshly lashed for what was, undoubtedly, a pig-headed refusal to yeild in the face of authority, the prisoners made a bloody case for the liveliness of their wills. Standing hobbled before the assembled Council and Trinity, the guerilla soldiers nonetheless wore defiance like a badge, heads held high with eyes eager to meet their betters. There was a grullo stallion, who held the Sage's gaze and bared his teeth; a chestnut mare, who lingered upon the Divine hatefully; a young palomino, who watched the Defender impassively, before his keen eyes swept to Councillor Cethin. It was this youth that spoke first. "I am Apo, born to the village of Inti, an agriculturist hamlet on the Southern Gulf."
"Citlali of the village Lajens, two miles north of Inaria." The chestnut spat. Her blue eyes remained upon Eve, her hooves clicking the ground in a nervous, furious fidget.
"Faro." Grunted the grullo, who looked to Cethin with the same contempt he'd spared to the Sage, "Isles of the Dead."
Faro, Early 30s, Grullo w/ striped wings
Citlali, Mid 40s, Chestnut w/ brown bat wings, blue eyes
Apo, Late Teens, Palomino, w/ golden wings
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Post by Flarism on Aug 12, 2016 14:06:56 GMT -6
He did not appreciate the crowds, did Ollin. They were a thing to be tolerated, but largely ignored. And in an emotional case such as this, it was hard. The normally quiet hall was filled with the thrum of a million whispers. It rattled the old stallion's skull, and began a headache that would not soon abate. Such noise, such uneasy energy. Crowds were rowdy, single-minded, and far too eager to act on impulse. Ollin was glad it was not they who had power here.
Yellow eyes found the three betrayers, viewing each prison-scarred pegasus with something that was almost pity. Not for their injuries, no, but for their clearly simple minds. He could think of no intelligent reason that one would attack the country that housed them, after all. A dull intellect had to be the root cause.
"What say you to the charges set against you? Have you any claim of innocence?"
He hardly thought they would. They seemed so very brash in their appearance, bold and proud of their actions. A true shame.
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Ollin - Talori Council
Post #2 - 176 Words
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Post by Chipo-H0P3 on Aug 13, 2016 1:06:25 GMT -6
Nagisa Marinus
The edges of Nagisa’s mouth twitched as she struggled to keep her composure. What had just been revealed did not make sense. Up until now, Nagisa had always assumed that these threats were coming from the outside. That it was some group of unenlightened foreign ingrates trying to sneak in and steal the Goddess’ gifts to her children. Yet, these three villains stood before the court and proclaimed that they were l egal Talori Citizens? My God, she might have even done business with Apo’s parents! It wasn’t right.
What they did was so wrong. The Talori weren't supposed to breed these kind of citizens. This country sheltered them, it’s land fed them, it’s people cared for them, and they go and return the favor by trying to destroy it? Nagisa couldn’t comprehend the pegasi’s reasoning. Why would someone want to burn down their own home? Councilor Ollin prodded for a claim of innocence, a formality that would entice the accused to share their views. Though a claim would do little to change the impending sentence at this point, it was still incredibly important that as much information as possible was accumulate from this trial. Nagisa was certain that the judges were all in agreement that all three were guilty beyond a doubt, but to what degree? Nagisa wanted to know who was in charge. Who was telling these cookaboros to light their torches? Closing her eyes, she took a breath and swallowed hard before she spoke so that could contain the venom in her voice. “To whom do you take orders from? And were you in anyway forced to commit these heinous crimes?”She looked down on each of them disgusted and entirely disappointed but her eyes hid a small plead. Please. Please have their leader not be Talori.
WC: 299
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Aug 13, 2016 14:07:02 GMT -6
When the grand doors opened, Naveen watched them with anticipation. They too were eager, yearning to see this trial that had been so talked about. Their energy fueled his own. Unlike the others, Naveen was pleased to see the crowd so eager. This would be a trial to remember for many years, why wouldn’t they be excited?!
Their chatter was quickly quieted as the side door opened. His eyes fell upon the prisoners as they were brought into the room. Respectively they had all done very terrible things, all equal in severity, but it was the chestnut mare whom Naveen felt deserved the worst of punishments. Through the information he had be given on the attacks, she had been the one who tried to desperately to poison the Divine. The Divine was arguably the most important equine in all of Talori, a being that spoke for the wave mother and embodied her essence. To attack her, such a holy individual, was of the utmost sin in the roan’s mind. For a moment his gaze shifted to the Divine, and he noted that the chestnut mare seemed to have her gaze upon the most holy as well. The girl had daggers in her eyes.
His gaze then shifted to the grullo. The obscene gesture that the grullo had thrown at the Sage - an essential ‘fuck you’ - disgusted Naveen. Oh, the impudent lack of respect! How could one be so audacious as to walk into court, before those who held their life in their hooves, and display such a gesture? As much as Naveen would have liked to have done something, he understood that their punishment would come soon, and that it would be far worse than anything he could do personally.
Instead, he only watched, remaining silent with his anger as the Sage and Councilor Cethin spoke.
The youngest prisoner was the first to answer Councilor Cethin’s question. Followed by the chestnut and then the grullo. Naveen took note of the chestnut’s fidgeting. Good, he thought, she should be nervous.
There was one thought in his mind that kept bugging him; why would Talori citizens even think of doing this? They were each Talori citizens - legal Talori citizens. And yet they sought to commit treason against the herd that fed them and gave them a home? There was no innocence that these individuals could claim. No redemption for their blasphemous souls but Cascade’s waters. They were proud of their actions. Proud of themselves for the horrible crimes that they had all committed. It made his stomach churn.
He waited for Councilor Nagisa to finish speaking before he brought forth his own question.
“As Councilor Nagisa suggests, this was clearly a united effort. You are all citizens of Talori, what drove you to commit these actions against your own home?”
WC: 473
Post 2
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Post by Dream-Lark on Aug 13, 2016 17:53:19 GMT -6
Rycaron | Sage
Ears flickered backward ever so slightly, a look of disdain lowering brows at the blatant display of vulgar disrespect. It was Talorian through and through, unless this was a rogue that inhabited the Isles of the Dead frequently, and it also cemented the idea that the pegasus' earlier staring contest was entirely on purpose. He took a deep breath, smoothing his features back into his diplomatic mask. He refused to give this nasty individual the pleasure of seeing him react, and so he switched his gaze to the youngest of the three, the first to introduce himself. An agriculturist...and as the other two spoke, they confirmed themselves to also be Talori Citizens. Perhaps Faro was not though, and it had been he who had poisoned the minds of the other two. He seemed confident enough, but at the same time, Rycaron did not believe a leader would take on a mission doomed to end in capture such as these three had done. Someone else was pulling the strings, but who were they? Where were they from? Worry gnawed upon his insides like a dog with a bone, as ideas surfaced. If what these three said was true, than the dissent and infection that had surfaced ran much deeper than he had feared. What had infected the populace so? What kind of charismatic monster had turned their own people against them? He glanced sideways at first Eve, then past her at Thaumas. Eve looked like she was faring worse and worse as time passed, instead of gaining more sleep as he and the Defender eventually had. Had more visions been triggered. Did she know anything more about this? No, she couldn't know anything more solid, or she would have told them. This situation was too grave to think otherwise. Sides rose and fell gently as the Sage expelled a gentle sigh, ears turning as he listened to the other questions posed by the Council. Rycaron was beginning to feel sick with the feeling that this was only the beginning of something. Someone had hoof picked these three for this mission, for three pegasi with Alya's gift of invisibility, mixed with dissent for their birth herd, could not be that common. Let alone for them to have knowledge of the palace and what transpired there, when they were not allowed to stay in Inaria, let alone rarely step hoof within palace walls. He had always known there were those who were not devout in their faith, who disliked the sacrifices. But that number was incredibly small. What had managed to transpire without him even having an inkling of it? How long had this infection been growing? Not knowing was something that ate away at Rycaron's soul, and it was one of his biggest fears. "How long has this plot been in the works? Was it only the three of you, and your leader?" The Sage finally inquired, adding his own questions to the string asked by his fellow herd mates, but unsure as to what these heathens may feel like answering. WC//510 | Post #3 |
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 14, 2016 15:04:26 GMT -6
It was at this point in the trial, during the string of seven questions, that Thaumas Anereus unleashed the first of two pointed looks. This one was a sharp one with narrowed eyelids and the flash-flick of his pupils across the subjects' faces, directed to the Guardians on either side of the prisoners, and it said very clearly that should any of the three misguided souls choose to display their contempt of the Court past futile facial expressions, a sharp yank of the lead chains or the buffeting blow of a gifted fist was appropriate (and perhaps required).
The second was directed at his co-counsel, as it were, and was much more apparent; the Defender physically turned his head side to side on his great, thick neck, looking calmly at the horses on his right, and then equally as calmly at the horses on his left. A flick of his ears backwards as he did was a suggestion for pause; seven separate inquiries was about as many as he could remember without hearing them again, and his mind wasn't under nearly as much pressure as these three must've been, testifying at their own public trial for heinous brutalities committed against their own people.
words: 205
notes: third post! |
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Post by ebbarie on Aug 15, 2016 0:44:39 GMT -6
Fijalahr | War Forged Ambassador Something went terribly wrong here. This was yet just a feeling and the big stallion had no clue where it came from. The reason for Fijalahrs sudden nervousness was not the big crowd that filled the room by this time, nor the relative bad condition of the prisoners. Chained and their lives at the mercy of the judgers, the three pegasi still carried their heads high. When their eyes met with his, the Ambassador looked deep into them to see what lay behind their defiant mask. Fijalahr saw no guilty concious no regret, just frustration and at some point - resignation. The bad feeling came back when the horse's left and right beside him started to interrogate the pegasi. After some time, every new question sended icy chills down his spine. The silent dignity that each and every one of them radiated was no gone, yielded by somethin else. At first he wasn’t able to point out what is was, but the more time past the clearer he saw the situation that took place right before his eyes. In the Councilors words he could hear many suppressed emotions. They weren’t neutral against the accused any more. If his feeling was right, this trial was just to gather some more informations, the majority of judgers already made up their decision. Fijalahr had many questions himself, but he would wait until the prisoners had answered the ones that were already asked. His opinion about the pegasis fate was not set yet. There must happen a punishment of course. They had to account for their actions, the bloodshed. But why...why would normal, inconspicuous citizens start a rebellion? Rycaron had told him that the trouble had started after the last solstice celebration. Back then the black stallion had not asked what exactly happened there, because it hadn't seemed important, but now he wished that had that knowledge. Whatever it was, it had provoked this tree and maybe some more to act. Thoughtful he looked back to the chained pegasi and waited tensed for their answers. Wordcount : 345
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Post by Queerly on Aug 15, 2016 4:22:45 GMT -6
Faro’s voice broke the silence that had befallen the room, his tenor curled into a barking laugh. “Forced? You think our actions forced?” He repeated. “You slaughter your own people and call their murder sacred. We lose our brothers, our sisters, our mothers- and why? Because this self-righteous bitch thinks she can speak for God?”
Eve spoke for the first time in many minutes, her tone even and as cold as the arctic sea, “I do not speak for-”
“Shut up.” Faro snarled, and was subsequently lashed for the insolence.
Citlali eagerly filled the void he left. “You commit a slow genocide against our people, treat us as a lower class, forbid us from living upon land you consider holy- yet you expect us to call this nation a home?”
“Resentment festers among the oppressed, and resentment gives way to revolution.” Said the young, eloquent Aro. “Surely an uprising doesn’t surprise you?”
“Course it surprised the upper crust hippocampi.” Faro growled. “Your kind’s always thought yourselves a cut above the rest. You don’t pay any mind to what you reckon is beneath you. How could you notice the snake you’ve been tramping grew some fangs when you never bother to look down?”
“We make no apologies for our actions.” Citlali concluded. “Let us be the martyrs that fuel the revolution. I welcome it.”
“Who do you take orders from?” Eve asked, repeating the question of Nagisa. For a second time, it was ignored.
“Your regime will fall.” Faro growled. His eyes shifted to Thaumas. “Your Guardians will fail again.”
Citlali held Naveen’s gaze. “We’ll see how fish-tails enjoy the Leap.”
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 18, 2016 22:03:33 GMT -6
There was a hum of noise in the grand hall now, for certain.
A hundred mouths moved the air, and a hundred more answered.
And a hundred more after that.
Such insolence.
Thaumas Anereus was surprised. He heard the doomed speak and it should have rankled him, should have riled him, but all he felt was... pity.
Is this Your doing, Mother?
The calm in his heart was a feeling he would explore further in the hours to come, but for now the novelty of it lay tucked away somewhere around a corner in his mind, waiting its turn and falling graciously into line behind more important topics.
"They are decided," said the Defender, and his voice carried hush over the room. The gallery throats would not be fully silenced, not after such a ludicrous display, but they were quieted, and that was enough. "They keep pride in their treason, letting it bloom and fester like a boil to burst upon the innocent when none would have denied them flight."
It was perhaps the most nuance with which Thaumas Anereus would ever speak. The question which had plagued him for so long offered its own answer in the blooded defiance of these three.
Why hadn't they fled? If they were scared, if they were angry, if they felt estranged from their own people, their own God? Why choose to remain when they were always free to fly, and unleash hellish murder upon those least worthy of it? Why perpetuate the hatred which resulted in their ostracization?
The Defender felt that wave of calm rise and fall through his veins again, pushing the blood along, all the way through his broad chest and through to the soles of his hooves.
It was clear, now; he could see it in their eyes.
They didn't care.
Selfish.
"But now we shall," he continued sharply, his deep voice cutting the air quick as lightning. To his Guardians, he said: "Remove them."
It was a mercy, meant both to save them from their own tongues and to offer more peaceful deliberations.
To the Counsel, he said: "By their own admissions, they have violated our laws most sacred. We are tasked now to punish them justly for their crimes, in the name of Our God, Cascade."
Let us not spare them a moment's respite.
words: 388
notes: fourth post. so sorry for the delay on this; i promise i'll be more aware from now on. i also think it's about time for our third checkpoint, so if y'all wouldn't mind holding off on posts until i can get an admin to post it for us... <3 |
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 21, 2016 12:35:56 GMT -6
Checkpoint 3// The trial is in full swing now. You've heard what the terrorists speak, and have discussed the need for a punishment. Now is the time to decide what it is you, and the herd by association, believe should be done with these traitors. Now is the time to begin deliberating over the impending sentencing.
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Post by Flarism on Aug 21, 2016 16:04:47 GMT -6
"And punish them we certainly shall," said Ollin evenly. He watched the prisoners be led out, before turning his eyes to the Defender. "I think little discussion will be needed here. Attempted assassination of the divine, coupled with treason given their Talori birth... Execution seems only fair."
It was not a sentence the old stallion enjoyed handing out, but he could think of no other that those winged fools deserved. How could equines so full of hate be rehabilitated? And with all the unrest in the nation, they could hardly spare the Guardians to oversee such a thing. Even bound in prison, whispers could still escape, and they hardly needed more pegasi following their violent example. Best to cut the problem out at the root, as unsavory as it was.
"Changing their hearts seems unlikely. And an example must be set. If they were born into the Talori, they must abide by Talori law. They clearly have not. We were lucky our Divine survived this attack. If we keep them alive and chained, their words may turn others, and our Holiest might not be so lucky next time."
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Ollin - Talori Council
Post #3 - 188 Words
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Aug 21, 2016 19:11:44 GMT -6
It was a good thing that they were finally dismissed, Naveen could hardly stand to look at them any longer. Their words caused anger to boil within him, and if they had stayed any longer, Naveen was afraid that he might not be able to control an outburst. He could not allow his anger to boil over here, not in front of the council and the spectators (that would leave a terrible stain on his own reputation). Deep breaths, he reminded himself, deep breaths.
And now it was time to decide on their respective punishment.
But they didn’t care what would happen to them. They wanted this, they wanted to die and become martyrs. For what? What point were they making? And that chestnut one, Citali - the one who held his gaze - had made a brief mention of fueling a revolution. A revolution of what, exactly? Pegasi? Those who were against the sacrifices? The thought made Naveen’s lips curl into a scowl. Those who would dare to try would only fail. This trial and the punishment of these three terrorists would be an example for all of those who even thought of following in their footsteps.
“I agree with Councillor Ollin, though. Execution is the only method that seems fitting for these terrorists. Let us make an example. Talori will not be intimidated by this so-called resistance. These three were merely fools - fools who allowed anger to blind them.” The emotion within his voice was strong, projecting that he was adamant in this decision. Execution was the only form of punishment that Naveen saw fitting for the terrorist, and the only punishment he would agree to.
WC: 278
Post 3
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Post by ebbarie on Aug 22, 2016 9:46:02 GMT -6
Fijalahr | War-Forged Ambassador The dark stallion watched the imprisoned pegasi led out, before he turned his eyes again to the other judgers. With the words of the accused still echoing in his head, he absently listened to what Ollin and Naveen had to say. Both Council members Hippocampi, like Rycaron. Like the Defender. “As far as I’m concerned Councillor Ollin and Councillor Naveen are right. The only reasonable punishment for their doings is a quick execution.”. Since the start of the trial, this was the first time that Fijalahr raised his deep voice. In his opinion, there was no way for the pegasi to come out of this alive. Back home in Onea this equines would have to face death as well for crimes like this. The Ambassador lifted his gaze and looked to Naveen. “You are mistaken if you think that the execution will stop the spark of rebellion between the citizens. It is dangerously arrogant to dismiss the actions of the Pegasi as a mad act, something that will not repeat. You all need to ask yourself what the real reason for their doing was. What must happen to induce inconspicuous citizen to such a desperate uprising. This was not the act of a few individuals. How many Pegasi have fled during the fights in the street?” he asked and turned his gaze to the other judgers. “I know, I speak as a stranger to your culture, but you will not destroy the ideas of justice and freedom by setting an example through that execution.”
His heart was beating hard against his ribs and he wasn’t sure if he was gone too far, but with inviting him to this trial they also invited him to share his opinion. It was no secret that the Pegasi here in Aquore were seen as second-class citizen. Words : 305
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 22, 2016 11:43:47 GMT -6
Thaumas Anereus shot a sidelong glance at Cethin, who apart from the foreign Ambassador was the only one at the judgement panel not sporting fins. Cethin's was a voice Thaumas respected not only because of his wisdom at his post, but because just now, in this stretch of breaths when everyone seemed to be on the same final, bloody page, the Defender couldn't help but think of That Night three months ago when he and Cethin had sprung into action together. We gave it an excellent shot then, didn't we? thought the Defender. He couldn't speak for the councillor, but Thaumas harbored a deep personal regret for killing only one of the intruders that night. For a career soldier like the Defender, combat forges the strongest bonds, both of friendship and of enmity.
The public stirred for young Fijalahr's speech. Did he mean to insinuate that there could be rational thought behind the solstice riots, rather than the single-minded bloodlust these three portrayed? Did he mean to suggest that the Talorian government was, by necessity, in opposition of the 'ideas of justice and freedom' in this conflict?
Thaumas Anereus liked the young War-Forged stallion, but knew him little, and was suddenly keenly aware that he may need to have the Ambassador watched more acutely in the months to come. The Defender answered him with a low, confident note. "Correct: we shall espouse them." And let that be the end of it, lad; this is the wrong place and the wrong time for lazy syntax.
Thaumas nodded to Ollin and Naveen, indicating that their opinions were heard -- and added his own. "I, too, would see them die for their sins." A third vote for execution. He looked to Rycaron, Eve, Cethin, and Nagisa. Their voices could sway the tides in the prisoners' favor should the four of them prove to be more mercifully-minded. "Will we discuss the method?"
words: 320
notes: fifth post! not really doing anything major here; thought we could talk about how they're to die, unless one of the four remaining opinions argues against execution? |
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Post by Dream-Lark on Aug 22, 2016 15:41:25 GMT -6
Rycaron | Sage
The chestnut stallion could only watch and listen as the trio spouted their venom, the corners of his lips actually drawing down into a slight frown. The fins along his jawline bristled with faint vibrations at the insult slung at his Divine, though only those close could see the tremors of movement along the translucent membranes. He simply did not comprehend what he was hearing, though he tried his best. How could such a problem have arisen, how could these snakes have grown fangs? How many more were out there that they were unaware of? So many pegasi were glad of the chance to be offered rebirth, to shed their wings and hope for the fins they should rightly deserve in the next life, for having lived so devoutly toward their Wave Mother. If these pegasi did not feel the same--why stay? Why not use those wings to fly away, or take a boat to another land and start anew where they obviously thought they would be more welcome. Why spread poison through their great nation? What they could not seem to comprehend was that every horse before them would gladly and proudly take the Leap, should they be called by their Goddess. There could be no higher honor than to make her wishes come true. Did those three even worship a god at all, or they simply heathens bent on causing trouble? Rycaron gave himself a mental shake, trying to clear his head of these thoughts and focus upon the conversation at hand, as Thaumas' voice drew his attention. Brows rose a fraction, impressed at the eloquence used, a rarity for the Defender was typically one of few words. Ears swiveled as he listened to the others chime in their opinion, mentally wincing at the War Forged Ambassador's addition. While he appreciated the younger equine's honestly and opinion...there could have been more tactful ways to express himself than to make it seem as if the Talori government were being overtly oppressive and the terrorists were in the right. Especially in this public forum as they were, Rycaron could already hear the murmurs circulating, though they'd never seemed to fully cease. "There is no other course of action, but to execute them for their crimes and sins against this herd," the Sage intoned, dipping his head in agreement. No other form of punishment would suffice, nor could they risk the wagging tongues of those three. Even if they were shipped off as slaves, the only other option that might have served, they could not have word about this getting out to all the other herds, nor risk having secrets about the palace leaked. So they must be killed to even being to atone, and after that, it was all up to the Wave Mother, unless She passed those pegasi along to someone else who claimed them. It seemed majority had voted for the execution, and the Defender's words about the how echoed in the air. Aqua eyes cast about to see if anyone else would speak up first, before Rycaron took a light breath. "I vote that they be given to the water, for Cascade to deal with their souls. It may be a slow death, but it is a peaceful one, and we are not cruel," the Sage spoke, the last more directed toward the murmuring, gossiping crowd, fully intending to put in every good word for their government that he could. And it was true, while drowning initially might be painful, it was a more peaceful way to go. These pegasi were from their herd, and those from the water should return to it, whether they had wings or no. WC//613 | Post #4 |
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Post by Chipo-H0P3 on Aug 23, 2016 1:00:40 GMT -6
Nagisa Marinus
Nagisa listened intently to the deep voice of the War-Forged Stallion. She should not have cared for his opinion, he was a foreigner after all. How could he possibly understand the cultural baggage behind this affair? He couldn’t. If he did, he’d know this crime was not sparked by a demographic of talorians calling for justice and freedom, but rather a few violent and deranged radicals who had no business calling themselves talori. Yet she listened, and she listened hard because his words came from a perspective she and everyone else in this room needed to hear. His position was vital in a trial this personal and heated. The Council and the Trinity were too close to the case, and though Nagisa trusted their resolve and their wisdom, she feared that theirs and her emotions might cause them to rush into things without properly weighing their options. The Ambassador was an outsider, new to the land and untied to it. His thoughts came purely from the facts of what had happened and what he had observed. "This was not the act of a few individuals. How many Pegasi have fled during the fights in the street?"His words echoed in Nagisa’s mind as she remembered the chaos that had ensued the dark day of the Winter Solstice. The people had gone mad in their strife against the sacrifice. “Murderer!” they cried. So many joined the uprise, but many still fought against it. It was turmoil. Her gift of recognition was not needed to see this nightmare. It was burned into her eyes, and it replayed for her constantly. She could still hear the screaming of the uncontrollable crowds muffling out the sound of her powerless voice. Her eyebrows knotted together as a migraine began to set in. Nagisa was still not convinced the pool of culprits was as large as the ambassador suggested but she certainly agreed that there were far more behind the rebellion than what the officials had managed to wrangle up. The mocking tone of the most insolent pegasus came back to mind. She was giving them the benefit of the doubt when she had asked them if they had been forced to do what they had done. It was a notion that she soon found they did not deserve. Their bold, and in ways, almost rehearsed, tone gave Nagisa the inkling that they were speaking as a party bigger than themselves and that their threats weren’t just the worthless blabbering of the damned. It was unsettling how much they did not know about their enemy. They still had not learned who lead them. Twice, the question had been ignored so It became profusely evident to her that, who ever it was, was still out there and they were guarding them. Nagisa felt the weight of the Defender's eyes upon her. She moved to meet his gaze and speak, but the action was interrupted by the lawful voice of the Sage. His was another vote for an immediate execution. A death by drowning, Nagisa noted. It was a fitting and poetic punishment but one that should be given to them later. They needed more time, more information. She looked at the faces of her fellow judges and began in a somber tone, “I believe it goes without question, that the accused should be executed as traitors for the sins they have committed and willingly confessed to.” She looked to their audience raising her voice in a more confident tone, “It’s a sentence so clear that even an ambassador to our lands, a stranger to our customs, can understand and agree with.” Nagisa turned to face the panel again, carrying the same conviction in her voice. “But fellow judges, we should not rush to quench the thirst for justice at the expense of losing invaluable knowledge. We have a great enemy, one that was able to get within reach of our most sacred Divine and Emperor. We need to be certain that something like this does not happen again and to do that we need to know more about what we are dealing with here.”Nagisa’s head pounded from her migraine causing her to withdraw a bit within herself.
“By all means, send them to the depths for God’s final condemnation, but in time. We've learned very little today."
WC 702 Post 3 |
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