Noble Court - The Crown vs Saige

The Meeting Hall buzzes with nervous excitement as the onlookers observe the deliberation unfold within the magical barrier. This barrier, shimmering faintly with a bluish hue, encapsulates the crescent-shaped table where the Noble Court is gathered, effectively silencing their discussions from the audience while allowing full visibility.

Inside the barrier, the nobles’ expressions and movements speak volumes.

Kethri is by far the most animated, her small frame frequently moving as she addresses her peers. Her hands wave expressively, sometimes tapping her chin in thought or resting under her chin as she leans forward. Her long, pale black hair sways slightly with each motion, and her face displays a mix of concern and contemplation. Charlotte remains more reserved, her long, wavy red-brown hair framing a face deep in thought. For much of the time, she sits silently with her hands folded in front of her. Occasionally, she leans forward to speak, her serious expression unwavering. Her eyes often appear distant, as if weighing the gravity of each word spoken within the barrier. Lyra nods emphatically at certain points, her hands gesturing sharply as she makes her arguments.

Marquanthis is a picture of serene contemplation throughout the deliberation. He frequently scratches his chin thoughtfully, occasionally leaning back in his chair and then forward to contribute. His calm and balanced demeanor provides a stark contrast to the more heated expressions of others, his presence a steadying influence amidst the tension. Baron Linneus sits fidgeting, picking at his hair absently, his face a study in stern disapproval. His discomfort and agitation are clearly visible, his expressions ranging from irritation to intense focus, reflecting his internal struggle with the proceedings.

Lord Seneschal Claude Faustus exudes meticulous authority throughout the deliberation. He frequently leans forward, his eyes sharp and scrutinizing. His posture is consistently regal, and every movement precise. His face is almost constantly set in a look of stern consideration, occasionally softening when directing the flow of the discussion. King Vlastimir, seated at the center of the crescent table, wears an expression of measured resolve, his gaze sweeping over the other nobles with the weight of his responsibilities clear on his face.

After several long minutes of deliberation which seem to stretch on for hours, the Nobles sit back in their seats listening to Lord Claude speak. One by one, each of the Nobles raise their hands: First Kethri, followed by Charlotte, then Lyra. Marquanthis partially raises his hand, hesitates for a moment, then fully extends it. Baron Linneus slams his hand down on the table.

Lord Claude addresses the Nobles, then turns to speak to Vlastimir as those with raised hands lower them and listen intensely. Vlastimir nods, speaking only a few words to his Seneschal, to which Claude bows in response. He then turns to the courtroom and places his hand back on the glyph. The shimmering barrier flickers and then vanishes.

"The Noble Court has concluded their deliberation and reached a verdict. His Majesty King Brennus Vlastimir Daggerheart, in his wisdom, has chosen to honor the decision reached by this court and pass the ruling without modification. With the blessing of His Majesty, I shall now relay this court's decision."

Claude takes a breath then focuses his attention on Saige, "For the charges of Assault on a Baroness with Intent to Kill, Assault of a Kingdom Citizen with Intent to Kill, Assault of a Kingdom Citizen with Intent to Kill, Reckless Endangerment within an Allied Domain, and Assault on an Allied Kingdom Officer, the Noble Court summarily dismisses the charges against her on account of her recognized status. However, the court does acknowledge that wrongs have been done. Since the victims of this crime have not sought any reparations, it is this court's decision that Saige is to be released into her own custody and will be required to undergo training for her Vampiric nature as well as control over her rage. For this, the court shall request the assistance and guidance of Valyrie, ruler of the Cemetery of Lost Souls as well as request the supervision of Prince Kalil. This training shall proceed for no fewer than six months from today, at which point her progress will be reassessed."

The Lord Seneschal places a hand on his chest and bows, "In the name of King Brennus Vlastimir Daggerheart, long may he reign, I hereby declare this session closed and adjourned. Guards, please release Miss Saige from her confinement. She is free to go."

He turns, "Guildmaster Miquella, Baroness Jade, and Knightmaster Selena, your presence is requested by His Majesty for a closed session in his quarters at the palace in three day's time."

As the Seneschal announces the verdict, Kalil and Storm sigh with relief almost in unison.

Once the Seneschal releases the court room, Charlotte pushes away from the table and jumps to her feet. She looks to the King and bows. Without a word to anyone, she makes her way around and out of the meeting hall. Following close on her heels is Knightmaster Fallin, who does nod his farewells to Selena and Edgar, after bowing to the King.

Kethri slowly rises from her seat and dips her head in farewell to the other nobles present. "It was a pleasure seeing you all. Safe travels."

Then she turns and begins heading for the exit.

Prince Kalil calmly stands from his seat and crosses the room, his eyes never once leaving Connor. He walks up to Connor, wraps an arm around his waist, and steps close to Connor, chest to chest, as he leans in to his ear. His lips lightly brush Connor's ear as he whispers to him in another language and then pulls back just enough to smirk at him, keeping one arm wrapped around him.

Queen Sofira rises and Amrynn follows suit. Sofira dips in a curtsy to the King and then turns to exit the meeting hall, her entourage following her.

Storm jumps from her seat and rushes across the room to wait for the guards to release Saige. Once she is freed, she rushes to her and wraps her up in a tight hug.

The red scaled Draconian who was seated beside Storm stands and turns, blending into the crowd and exiting the meeting hall with the rest of the crowd.

Saige watches with wide eyes as her fate is announced. When the guards release her shackles and collar, she doesn’t even wait a second before turning straight for Storm. She jumps into her arms and buries her face in Storm’s neck, clinging desperately to the draconian. Her whole body is shaking, and she shows no signs of letting go any time soon.

Selena gives a short bow of her head at the request, but remains otherwise neutral as the verdict is announced. Once everyone is released, she and Edgar bow to Vlastimir, then Kalil and Connor, then make their way out of the building. Remaining off to the side out of the way if anyone wishes to speak with them. They stand fairly close together and speak in tovi, Edgar reaching up to touch her arm at one point before dropping it back to his sword.

Lyra gives short farewells to the king, stops to tell Zuigrii she'll be in the guild if he needs her, then heads out and back to work.

Storm clings to Saige as well and kisses the side of her head. "Let's get the fuck outta here." She chuckles and leads Saige out of the meeting hall.

Sofira stops by Selena and Edgar as they exit the meeting hall. "I was going to send everyone home and then...Want to chat for a bit or should I head home myself?"