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"Don't worry overly much about the standing of a dwarf in a human court.
Heh, I honestly look forward to disrupting their stuffiness.
As far as dealing with the princess, I think just being honest and straightforward is you best bet. She will want to know that she has trustworthy and capable support in the military."
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The elder statesman is noticeably friendlier, when Ferdrin approaches him a second time.
"I see you and your companions have been quite busy. You seem to know how to work a room together. You've impressed at least half a dozen of the gathered nobles, if I don't miss my guess."
"I've a keen interest in the history you have uncovered. Why don't you tell me what you've learned." It doesn't seem to be a question or a casual request.
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Ferdrin recounts each bit of background they discovered about Honaria and the surface-level details of the historical context surround each: the loyalties of the traitorous group she ran down, the origins of the intelligent blade they recovered, her blessing from Aroden received at the Basilica, and the significance of her military campaigns as evidenced by the letters and medals recovered. Whatever you think of young Remaio, Honaria most assuredly left a positive fingerprint on history.
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"You're referring to the young man who would be a noble? I haven't given the notion much consideration. What do you think of him?" Rell turns the question back on Ferdrin.
He pauses a moment, thinking. "I'm quite interested in artifacts of historical significance. I'd love to add some of the items you mentioned to my collection, say the helms and broken swords bearing the fox insignia of a unit in the ancient Taldan army?"
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Hmm, his character? That's a good question. To be frank, no, he does not live up to his ancestor's honor. He's driving hard for status, and doesn't show a lot of gratitude along the way. However, it is fair that his family name be restored on the basis of her efforts. The best we can hope for is that he turns to her examples of honor and virtue once he realizes he is in over his head in the nobility game. More experienced nobles such as yourself could perhaps influence him in the direction of Taldor's aid.
When Rell not-so-subtly inquires about some of the historical items, the arcanist considers it thoughtfully, and with business-like manner, with his hand on his chin.
I suspect that after the decision today, the young Alcasti would easily part with these items. This collection of yours, is it a tightly guarded private collection, or does it enrich the citizens of Taldor with the history that it may convey?
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Bobbi approaches Inka and offers their arm for wrestling. Predictably, they get trounced, but Bobbi rolls with it, letting their arm sort of go all noodle-y and tentacle-ish as Inka drives forth the win.
The formless arm is held for a moment before the semi-solid person forces it to be an arm once more.
"You want a tale of heroism, of derring-do? Most of the exploits I'd relate I'd have to kill you or forward your name to someone to do it for me because man, you've got the strength of a bear." Bobbi begins, then looks at the arm with a thousand-yard stare before continuing.
"I was in the devil-worshipping lands of Cheliax, doing my part to fight for the cause of Freedom and liberate some folks that were being prepared as sacrifices. That was the easy part -- we managed to free several dozen souls who would have met horrible fates that day.
When it came time to extract, though? I drew the short straw and had to wait the longest, and Abrogail's flunkies found me. So they thought it'd be amusing to see what I'd do freed from the burden of having a skeleton. They called up one of their infernal pets, hooked me up to some damned machine... and kept me alive for kicks as they took bone by bone, holding it up in front of me, mocking me in profane ways.
I have no idea how long it went on, I lost consciousness so many times just to be woken up again to... you guessed it, another bone being yanked out of my body. A recovery team managed to save me but by then... the damage was done."
Bobbi lets the limb sort of 'puddle' on the table, save for the connection to the rest of their body before drawing it together once more.
"Thankfully, the druids of the Western Verduran Forest were able to help me gain some control, but it's been a hard journey that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Moral of the story, because every story has a good moral? Don't get boned in Cheliax." they offer with a wry smile.
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"My collection is quite secure, I assure you." You get the impression the security measures are effective and lethal. "My interest in the items you've recovered is private, not a matter of state."
He regards Remaio Alcasti lobbying another gaggle of nobles. "I will listen to the case presented. It's conceivable General Honoria Alcasiti's reputation could be rehabilitated without changing the fortunes of this young man. I know of no service of his own that speaks to his claim of noble lineage or that displays noble virtues of his own."
He looks at Princess Eutropia nearby. "I am curious to learn how her royal highness will judge the matter. We shall see."
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Bobbi 'ripples' a bit under the punch as they join in the laughter politely. "Sorry about that, I'm rather gelid about how good-humored you're being about all of this. Usually there's screaming and shouting and pitchforks. And torches. Must not forget the torches."
After having done their fair bit to light the conversational fire, the semi-solid person smiles then considers, glancing over at Eutropia.
"What's your take on the Princess?" they offer with a curious tone.
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Taking to the new wardrobe with flair, Dol saunters up to Bobbi as if he were at a masquerade.
"Arrr! What do ye landlubbers be scuttlebuttin' about."
Hearing the last of the previous conversation, he does his best to put in a good word.
"The Princess? Aye, she be fair on tha eyes, but there be rock hidden in tha shallows. She be heir to a throne in a male dominated court, so she has ta step lively, lest she be seen as a shrew.
At tha same time she has ta not seem soft. It be a fine line she be walkin', with Davey Jones waitin' fer her fall. She be needin' strong support from those she can trust, cause when she makes her move ta consolidate power tha knives'll come outta tha dark, ye can be sure.
What say you, eh? Do ye pledge yer blade ta tha heir or to her father?"
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Inka Heldotor - Friendly. The party can attempt a DC15 Diplomacy check to warm her opinion of Princess Eutropia. Bobbi rolled a 12; Dol rolled a 10...
Princess Eutropia - To persuade her to support your and Remaio's case, you'll need to help her gain the support of Dominicus Rell and Inka Heldotor.
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Ijo sees the conversation turning a bit stale and we may lose Inka soon. Ijo feels like a last resort in these circumstances and this may as well be the time to get involved.
Your duty is sworn to her father, true, but her father sees it fit to have her rule when it comes time. Would you at least give her a chance? Put your support behind her, if not for honor her but to her father as well.
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Ferdrin wanders over and, seeing that Inka is a forceful woman, figures that she won't mind the group showing up in force to persuade her. Rather, a heavy-handed approach shouldn't offend her, Ferdrin figures.
Eutropia is a warrior-maiden in her own right. It takes courage and tenacity to flip over the deeply-entrenched patriarchal structures of a comfortable nation. I know she respects you, and looks up to you in a way. It's surprising what leaders in different walks of life can learn from one another.
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Bobbi glances over at Captain Seferi thoughtfully, then back to Inka casually after Lady Gloriana walks over and makes the comment about assistance.
One strong-willed woman to another? That may be either the perfect combination OR a recipe for disaster. But how to get them to talk? I'm kind of pinned down here...
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Turning to Lady Morelli, Dol drops the pirate speech, since it is obviously having a counterproductive effect.
"My Lady, your timing is impeccable. We were just discussing with Inka Heldotor here how much Princess Eutropa requires the loyalty and support of those who take it upon themselves to protect her life.
In my opinion, the unwavering support of her bodyguard to her personally, and not to the throne iteslf, is essential toward the Princess' future success. I believe in it so much that I feel it like a mission. So far, we have been tongue-tied in our attempts to sway Inka.
My Lady, you understand the motivations of the Ulfen Guard better than we do. Could you perhaps try your hand at convincing Inka?"
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Nodding in response to your request, Lady Gloriana Morilla addresses Inka. "The Ulfen Guard serves Taldor's monarch. Who succeeds Grand Prince Stavian III will shape the future for generations. Inka Heldotor, you have observed the likely contenders for many years in service to the Crown. Who better to succeed to the throne than Princess Euphoria?"
The Ulfen Guard thinks for a moment. "Aye, you speak truth. Within this pit of vipers, the princess is a damn sight better than the alternatives. She'd have my support, if ever the succession were in question."
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Ijo will saunter back up to Dominicus Rell when he's free from other discussion.
I hope those artifacts were to your satisfaction, Dominicus. You know, we Pathfinders are often encountering interesting pieces of history here and there. If you were to pledge support for the Princess, perhaps I can save something for you here and there.
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Happy that Inka has been convinced, Dol's spirits are buoyed. He briefly considers finding a mug of grog and starting his pirate impression again, then thinks better of it.
Seeing that the Princess still needs extra support from Lord Rell, he straightens his new jacket and strolls back over to greet the man.
Flourishing his hat, he bows and greets the man. "Lord Rell, I don't believe we've had the pleasure yet. My name is Dol, of Clan Stormmaul, priest of the Forgefather, and Pathfinder.
I believe you've already met my teammates."
Responding politely to whatever response Dominicus makes, Dol will find a segue to steer the conversation.
"I understand that you have quite the collection of historical items in your possession. While I am not a student of history such as yourself, I do have an interest in objects from history, especially magical ones.
I've found that with ancient items, the motivations of the creators are often ill understood. Sometimes, our misinterpretations of an item's properties can cause very detrimental effects. Items that we consider cursed, are often simply misunderstood, or people believe that they know better than the ancients how an item should be used.
Such happened to my family once, resulting in a feeblemind effect being unleashed on several of my close relatives.
That is why I have dedicated myself to ensuring that artifacts are used safely and in accordance with the intention of the ancients.
The same principal can often be attributed to the ancients who created the laws we followed today, especially those ancients who presided in a more prosperous time. These people had insights and understandings that we lack when we review the laws that are their progeny.
Laws, such as the Rules of Succession you have here in Taldor, for instance, should be adhered to, I think, and not tossed aside lightly because some alive today find them to be inconvenient.
As a student of history, and of the law, I am sure you see can see the point I am trying to make. I sincerely hope that I am speaking to someone of similar mindset."
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The succinct Ijo and the loquatious Dol flank Dominicus Rell, pummeling him with their appeals for his support for Princess Eutropia.
"Her royal highness is young and untested, but she is intelligent and ambitious. Most importantly, she is Grand Prince Stavian III's sole legitimate offspring. For that reason alone, I am inclined to support her."
He glances over at the Eutropia. "Succeeding her father to the throne, however, is far from certain. The laws and traditions of Taldor have long held to the principle of primogeniture, passing inheritance only to a male heir. There are many ambitious nobles with distant claims of their own."
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In a clear, commanding voice penetrating the din of the crowd of nobles, Princess Eutropia speaks, "We now call this court to session. Remaio Alcasti! You have asked to be heard this day. What would you ask of us?"
Remaio pulls himself together, straightening his waistcoat and adjusting his frilly necktie. He bends forward in a deep bow and flourish of swinging arms and hands. "Indeed, Your Royal Highness, I bring you overwhelming exculpatory evidence and irrefutable testimony that my esteemed ancestor, General Honoria Alcasti was wrongly stripped of royal commission, noble title, and considerable property by her petty and nefarious enemies, jealous of her glorious victories and envious of her wealth. Justice demands my family name and fortune be restored and--"
Princess Eutropia interrupts the would-be nobleman, "Quite a flowery preamble, Master Alcasti, but is not true that most of this 'proof' was gathered not by yourself but by others?"
Flustered by the interruption and unsure of the implications of the princess's question, Ramaio tries to recover, "Yes, Your Royal Highness, but--"
Princess Eutropia interrupts him again, "Excellent. We would prefer to hear first-hand from those who actually investigated this matter."
She summons you forward, "Dol Stormmaul, Ijo ibn Sun, Ferdrin Ternyth," struggling to pronounce the last name, "And, em, Bubb Blrb Brbl 'Bobbi' Libertas. This gentleman claims his foremother, Honoria Alcasti was unjustly accused of treason. He demands that her name and historical legacy be rehabilitated. He also seeks to have her land and titles restored to himself as her heir."
She looks each of you in the eyes with a penetrating gaze. "Please tell us what you learned. We would hear the case for General Honoria Alcasti's rightful place in the history of Taldor." She casts a dispassionate glance at Remaio. "And we would hear your thoughts on the worthiness of this man to receive the boons he demands of us."
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Removing his ridiculous hat, Dol takes a moment to prepare and casts Aspect of the Nightingale and Guidance on himself.
Stepping forward, he addresses the court, bowing to the Princess.
"Princess and gathered nobles, we stand before you today supporting the case of Honoria Alcasti, a noble of Taldor and General who was dishonored due to claims of failure in the field.
At the request of Remaio Alcasti, her descendent, we have traveled far and wide, seeking evidence of Honoria's history. As outsiders, we had no preconception of Honoria's legacy, and went in search of facts and evidence.
In Oppara, we visited the Basilica of the Last Man, where an honored bust of Honoria was being kept. This bust was commissioned to celebrate honors heaped upon Honoria Alcasti by the Church of Aroden.
Aroden, as a patron of Taldor, would not have annointed Honoria thusly without cause.
We also traveled into Qadira in search of Honoria's sword, which was now in the collection of a merchant family.
Soldier's Glory is an intelligent sword, and can bear direct witness to the many accomplishments of Honoria.
We present to the court these items which provide direct and irrefutable evidence, both through divine and first-hand witness. The valor and honor of Honoria cannot be disputed."
Dol will pause to allow any statements by Brother Valicus, Aayef, and Soldier's Glory, then continue.
"As for the personal case of Remaio Alcasti, I can provide no direct evidence. He has hired help to prove that Honoria was unjustly punished and should be commended for seeking to right the wrongs of the past.
However, based on our interactions, it is clear to this dwarf that Remaio's true motivations were self-serving and not in the interests of truth or restoring Taldor's past glories.
He should be able to revel in the honors of his forebears, but should also seek honors of his own before seeking to be elevated to nobility."
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There are a few snide snickers as the dwarf in an ill-fitting pirate costume begins his oration.
Father Basri interjects, "Your Royal Highness, this dwarf, Dol Stormmaul, and his colleagues did the Basilica of Aroden a great service, retrieving a number of stolen artifacts of great value and significance the Dead God. I am told they defended one of my brothers, when he was verbally accosted by Master Alcasti. I vouch for their integrity and bless this Court and these proceedings."
Princess Eutropia raises an eyebrow, "A cleric of Torag in service to the Dead God. Interesting."
Soldier's Glory speaks up in her clarion voice. "Indeed, the dwarf lacks eloquence, but I can testify to his honor and to his prowess in battle." The enchanted sword pauses, enjoying the shock and awe her magnificence inspires in the gathering of royalty and nobility.
"I am Soldier’s Glory, the famous blade that once served Honaria Alcasti. I mourned her death but refused to be interred with her. Unfortunately, none of Honaria’s descendants who were alive at the time of her death possessed the noble spirit that I demanded from my next wielder. As the years passed, I settled in to a depressing existence as a decoration and curiosity, and spoke increasingly rarely, until my true nature faded to a footnote in the family’s history."
"When Remaio Alcasti sold me to the Ghazali family four years ago, I took a liking to young Aayef, whose headstrong nature and desire to be more than a spoiled noble son reminded me of Honaria. Aayef is the first person in centuries to hear my voice."
"Until I met these fine folk, noble in spirit, if not in title."
Even the princess has difficulty suppressing her astonishment at the talking sword. "Fascinating... " she whispers.
The young Qadiran Aayef blushes at the praise from Soldier's Glory. "Your Royal Highness, Dol and his friends saved me from a terrible monster, a giant scorpion with fearsome pincers and a poison sting. Their actions were borne out of bravery and compassion, before they knew anything about just how special Soldier's Glory is. And thanks to their heroic example, I'm off to Absalom to join the--"
Lady Gloriana Morilla squeezes Aayef's hand, urging him to quit while he's ahead.
Several nobles hiss at the temerity of a Qadiran to speak in front of the royal presence. "Silence!" the princess commands. "This gentleman is a witness in these proceedings. He provides testimony today, because we will it so." Her imperious glare quiets the room immediately.
Remaio Alcasti's face pales at Dol's harsh portrayal of his character. He gives the dwarf an incredulous stare.
Princess Eutropia looks at the rest of you, expecting someone else to speak.
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Ijo will gather a few of the papers and the figurine from the recovered artifacts and display them in open view.
If it please the court, I would like to offer further evidence of Honoria Alcasti's works and status. Following the recovery of Honor's Glory, we traveled to a relative of the Alcasti's to recover Honoria's journal and other artifacts. In question today are the tales of her deeds which these journals and various documents capture in detail.
Countess Honoria Alcasti led troops brilliantly and courageously and history owes her and her family their due.
As for Remaio's motives, I cannot pass judgement. I cannot begin to fathom what I would do in the shadow of that scale of betrayal on my family. Although his case is not to be tried here, but that of Honoria's honor, which is clear.
Ijo sits back down and wipes the sweat from his brow.
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Princess Eutropia motions for Dominicus Rell to take the documents and the small statue of the pegasus. He hands the figurine to the princess, dons his reading glasses and quickly peruses the recovered papers.
Eutropia turns the alabaster pegasus over in her hands, running a lacquered finger along its golden bridle and broken wing.
Doffing his spectacles, Rell clears his throat. "Your Royal Highness, these records appear authentic and the seals intact and genuine. They provide detailed information about Honaria’s leadership, depicting her as a skillful leader with a brilliant command of tactics, and also reference her repeated inability to receive sufficient resources during some of her campaigns."
Remaio's pale face displays a puzzled frown at Ijo's assertion that his case, the petition that Honoria's fortune be restored to him, is not to be tried in Court today.
Ignoring the would-be nobleman, Princess Eutropia asks the half-orc spiritualist, "Why doesn't this relative of Master Alcasti speak on his behalf? Has he or she no interest in their foremother's legacy or her former lands and title?"
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Ferdrin has been watching the other testimonies, and more specifically Remiao's reaction to each. Knowing his is likely going to argue much the same way as his predecessors, he gets a little nervous about suffering this reaction to his own turn.
He clears his throat and steps forward.
Yes, your Highness.
A slight bow before proceeding to return the acknowledgement he was asked to speak.
We travelled deep into a forest, to a grove only accessible by rafting a small river. We were following a lead that Honaria had campaigned in the area, but we were uncertain why. Further, we'd been told there was an ancient tree that can communicate in our languages who might be able to give a first-hand account from this time. If I hadn't seen it myself...
He trails off, remembering the wonder of the tree very briefly before recovering the thread of his testimony.
It told us that she was a successful commander in the outlanders' army before they split into fighting nations. It remembers her as always respecting the woods, particularly the Wildwood Lodge there. Honaria had come to round up fugitives hiding in the woods. She only lost a handful out of the few score under her command. This was over a long period of time, multiple seasons, with her unwavering persistence in rooting out each and every one of the hiding fugitives. Ultimately she captured their leader and brought a highly-sought group of thieves and deserters to justice. Given how new the nations were, this deed likely avoided further complications and disturbances to their early relations. Honaria only gave, and gained nothing additional in an environment where political opportunity was likely plentiful.
He nods and steps back from the position of focus on the court floor, hoping to be done.
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"For a millenium, the Verduran Forest in northern Taldor has been under the control of the druids of the Wildwood Lodge. The druids are notoriously suspicious of outsiders," Princess Eutropia observes.
Inka Heldotor nods, "The deep and dangerous woods sometimes attract criminals seeking to avoid the reach of Taldan law. Only the brave and foolish would venture there." The Ulfen Guard looks at you. "Fools would not have survived."
"An interesting account," the princess acknowledges. "But is there any evidence that what the ancient blackwood tree recounted actually happened?" she asks Ferdrin
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Seeing the fox insignia on the split helms and broken swords, Solmon Menander swallows a nervous cough, then mutters, "The Vainglorious Vixen."
In the silent hall, the whisper carries.
Princess Eutropia turns scarlet, "I beg your pardon, Sir!"
"A thousand pardons, Your Royal Highness." Menander makes an obsequious bow, hands shaking, nearly prostrating himself. "These arms and armor belonged to the infamous Foxgrove Fusiliers, a notorious regiment that deserted the Crown. Following their treason, they were known as the 'Vainglorious Vixens'."
"An entire regiment deserted the army of Taldor?" the princess asks, incredulous. "Why?"
"Em, if I recall correctly, em," Solmon Menander stammers, "The Crown withheld their pay, during a period of, em, fiscal, em, constraints."
Princess Eutropia exchanges a furious look with Dominicus Rell and Inka Heldotor. "I would empty the treasury, before any soldiers of my army wanted for pay."
"The records do not mention the name of the general who dealt with the deserters." Menander adds. "It is likely that before she fell into disgrace, Countess Honaria Alcasti led her troops into the Verduran Forest to root them out and put an end to their treason and banditry. It appears the historical accounts have been altered to deny her the credit."
"You have given me much to consider," the princess says.
She sets her gaze upon Bobbi. "There is additional testimony and evidence?"
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"Bobbi Libertas, Your Highness." they offer with a polite tone and trying to curtsey as formally as possible despite not having had courtly training, because this is kind of important.
"Before I begin, Your Highness, I must admit I am from Andoran, and some of the mechanics involved here were discarded during the People's Revolt BECAUSE of some of the failings noted by my fellow explorers as well as members of the court. That being said, we also pride ourselves on taking stands and doing the right thing -- and in this particular case it is the besmirched name of one of the greatest heroes Taldor has chosen to forget about. If she had been funded and well, she could have possibly brought Andoran back into the fold. Instead, she was given the curse of ignominy and disgrace."
They pause for a moment then continue.
"That disgrace led to other loyal members of Honaria Alcasti's following succumbing to the darkness in their hearts. While we were exploring the tomb of Honaria, we found the following military honors and accolades, preserved with her place of rest." Bobbi carefully pulls the varied rows of ribbons, medals, pendants, and other honors out with reverent care, presenting them to the Princess.
"I mentioned darkness in the hearts. Italice Cenbari, a scion of the Cenbari family was murdered in the tomb in a misguided and dark-hearted effort on the part of a follower of Honaria. They had become so distraught over all the good that had been done for Taldor... and then was promptly swept away as if it had never happened. That neither condones nor excuses the villainry that transpired there -- but it does explain it to a limited degree.
Italice has since been returned to their family with according honors, to be buried in accordance with the wishes of the Cenbari line. If Honaria's honor and standing is restored in the court, it is the humble suggestion of this outlander that any remaining assets of the House be offered to the Cenbari family as belated amends for the crime against them."
"The second part of the question Your Highness has put to us as explorers and historians is 'Does Remaio Alcasti reflect the honor, integrity, and dignity that his treasured ancestor Honaria possessed?' As much as it pains me to say thus, Remaio was at best a paymaster, at worst a taskmaster -- both things we frown on a bit in Andoran. It is true that he bought this amazing garment for me, as well as my fellow companions. It is also true that he is invested in this process, or we would not be here speaking to Your Highness."
"When we were in the basement of the Basillica, Remaio did eagerly jump upon the bust of his departed ancestor and left us to 'handle the rest of the matters'. Instead of helping us de-escalate a conflict with some trespassers as his ancestor Honaria might have, he RAN. Not because he was a coward, but because he felt that what he needed to secure this claim was more important than the lives of other living beings... one of whom died tragically at my hands." Bobbi adopts a thousand-yard stare for a moment or two before shaking it off.
"If Your Highness does decide to grant Honaria the honors she was unjustly and unfairly stripped of, let not the full weight and burden of that judgement fall upon Remaio. He has much to learn in the ways of being a decent person.. and a proper noble. Perhaps as a lesser station, such as a knight or a baronet or whatever they're called these days it might be a chance for him to learn to not only work for the People... but also for the nobility."
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Bobbi's proud proclamation of Andoran citizenship is met by scattered snickers among the assembled courtiers.
As promised, Bobbi includes Italice’s story at the court proceedings. The suggestion that the Alcasti lands be bestowed upon the Cenabri is met by astonished and envious gasps. The nobles clearly don't want to see one of their own advanced on the whim of a foreigner, especially one from upstart Andoran.
Theon Cenabri steps forward and bows before the princess, "Your Royal Highness, the oozemorph speaks the truth. They returned the remains of my esteemed ancestor, Italice Cenabri, to our House. They also returned Italice’s clockwork familiar Amantius, who revealed a terrible tale of betrayal and treachery."
"Countess Honaria Alcasti’s downfall did not affect her alone. Syagra Tetranella, one of Honaria’s comrades in arms, had always held out faith that the Empire would come to its senses and Honaria would be exonerated. When Honaria instead died in public ignominy, Syagra began a long slide into bitterness and resentment. Swearing vengeance for her friend, Syagra cast the blame on Italice Cenabri, a prominent adviser to the crown. In truth, many people shared responsibility for Honaria’s disgrace, but Italice served as a convenient scapegoat for Syagra’s rage and sorrow."
Scions of House Tetranella hiss at Theon Cenabri's denigration of their ancestor and their House.
"After years of preparations, Syagra carried out her plan to assassinate Italice, fleeing from justice and escaping into the wilderness. She eventually made her way to the mountains where the Alcasti family had given Honaria a hero’s burial in the family tomb. In her single-minded devotion, Syagra broke into the tomb, planning to leave Italice’s head as an offering to Honaria’s memory."
"Ironically, in her attempts to honor her friend, Syagra was forced to smash apart the tomb guardians and vandalize most of the magical wards. As Syagra turned to exit Honaria’s burial chamber, Italice’s clockwork familiar Amantius confronted her. Syagra struck him down and left him as another twisted offering to Honaria’s memory."
Theon casts a scathing eye at his fellow nobles, then he addresses the princess. "House Cenabri seeks no boon from the Crown. We are satisfied that these fine fellows have revealed the truth. If any doubts still linger, Italice’s clockwork familiar Amantius is available for questioning."
Remaio Alcasti seethes with outrage at the party's betrayal, the suggestion of a lesser title but not a restoration of the House's lands and property.
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Princess Eutropia motions Dominicus Rell and Lady Gloriana Morilla to accompany her as she takes a seat upon a throne-like chair set on a dais at one end of the hall. The Ulfen Guard, Inka Heldotor, follows, taking her place one step to the rear and one to the left of the princess.
They confer quietly for a few moments, then Princess Eutropia nods. That seems to be a cue for the nobles to fall into formation before her, awaiting her pronouncement.
Once the courtiers fall silent, Princess Eutropia speaks in a regal voice, "We have made our decision. In the name of Grand Prince Stavian III, we declare that General Countess Honoria Alcasti be restored to full glory as a Hero of Taldor. Let the histories reflect her many selfless contributions to the Crown and to its beloved people."
The beautiful princess gives each of you a warm smile.
"Dol Stormmaul, Ferdrin Ternyth, Ijo ibn Sun, and, em, Bubb Blrb Brbl 'Bobbi' Libertas, we name you Nobles of Taldor and grant each of you a visbarony for your integrity and for your service to us and to a grateful nation."
Lady Gloriana Morilla looks quite pleased with this unexpected turn of events.
The gathered nobles edge away from Remaio Alcasti, shunning the young man. He stands alone, white as a ghost, trembling. "But, Your Royal Highness--"
With a tone of regal finality, Princess Eutropia continues, "Furthermore, we deem Master Alcasti unworthy of his noble ancestor's legacy." Remaio gasps. "May he find solace in the knowledge that General Honoria Alcasti has assumed her rightful place in the annals of Taldor."