Noble Court - The Crown vs Saige

The doors open and Prince Connor enters, his white robes trailing the floor behind him. Across his chest is a sash bearing the Ariadnian colors and Crest. At his hip is a favor of black and white embroidered with the likeness of a dragon. His expression is blank and he does not address nor meet the eye of anyone as he approaches the platform, bows, and stands at the point of the crescent reserved for the Defense. He clears his throat and speaks.
"Your Majesty, Lord Seneschal, Honored Nobles... Prince Connor Daggerheart standing for the Defense of Saige in these matters."

As the nobles and guests settle into their places, the hall falls into a hushed silence. King Vlastimir rises, his voice resonating with authority and the weight of the day's responsibilities.

"Very well. Welcome, Prince Connor. Today, we convene to deliberate the case of the Crown versus Saige," he announces, his gaze sweeping over those assembled. "The charges against Saige are severe, and it is our duty to ensure justice is served."

"Saige stands accused 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," King Vlastimir continues. "These accusations carry grave implications, and we must weigh the evidence carefully to deliver a fair verdict. The Lord Seneschal Claude Faustus shall be the voice of the King during these proceedings until such a time a verdict has been reached."

Lord Claude leans forward, his eyes scrutinizing Saige. "We shall hear the evidence from both sides. The truth shall guide our judgment." He leans back in his seat but his shoulders remain squared and his posture regal, "Guildmaster Miquella, as the prosecuting noble, the floor is yours for opening statements and declarations of purpose."

Kalil's eyes widen as he see's Connor enter the room and after the initial shock of seeing him wears off, he smirks.

Storm gasps as Connor declares himself Saige's defense and then breathes a sigh of relief. She glances at the Draconian beside her but the Draconian keeps her eyes forward. Storm returns her attention on the trial.

Charlotte's eyes widen and then immediately narrow and then she raises an eyebrow. She gives her head a slight shake and then returns to her stoic expression.

Saige’s ears twitch slightly at Connor’s appearance, but her gaze stays focused to the floor ahead.

Hearing Connors words brings Miquella a hint of relief. He looks to relax but continues to keep a stoic expression.

"Thank you Lord Claude. It is with a heavy heart that I brought these charges up on Saige. Let it be known now. That if a citizen discloses that they have witnessed a crime being committed. Then it is our duty as Nobles to heed the call of equality and order. Even if they are against friends...or family.

I was informed that Saige attacked Broness Jade and Citizen Zuigrii. That rage overtook her, and she struck them down without concern of the possible consequences of her actions. So, I found it upon myself to take action. Just as we did at the previous trial. To have Saige arrested, so a proper investigation could be conducted.

Then only three months later. At the last gathering of heroes. She used poisons in a Allied Kingdom Embassy who was in active War targeting Zuigrii. Proceeded to dominate a guard, and force them to protect her and eventually falling due to the order as she tried to retrieve an artifact that was ordered to be taken away by Queen Sofira.

It is with a heavy heart that I must to be the one to do this, but honor and balance must be upheld. A balance between Order and Chaos.

This is why I submitted that Saige be tried for Assault on a Baroness with Intent to Kill, Assault of a Kingdom Citizen with Intent to Kill. For the actions after the Library. Reckless Endangerment within an Allied Domain, and Assault on an Allied Kingdom Officer of the events that occurred in the Embassy of the Elven Kingdom of Udeoǔ Feonea Khea Rai Leakhao. I have chosen to see pass her use of Poisons during this event and previous notations due to a conflict of interest. As I have seen her use it before without mention. As such after this is done I will being myself before the King for allowing this crime to take place without mention before."

Lord Seneschal Claude Faustus nods his head, "Thank you, Guildmaster. The Noble Court will now hear opening statements from the defense. Prince Connor?"

Connor takes a deep breath, holding it for a few heartbeats before gently blowing it out. He bows his head respectfully,
"Thank you, Lord Seneschal. Honored Leaders of Ariad, I would like to thank you for your attendance and attention today. I hope your travels were pleasant and that these proceedings do not monopolize much of your day as I know you all lead busy schedules."
He withdraws a piece of folded parchment from his pocket and unfolds it, laying it flat on the table in front of him, "As we are here today to entertain what I will prove to be absurd allegations, I have a few more that I would like to address... There was a dog barking rather loudly in town that I would like to see brought up on charges of disturbing the peace. Also, a bird flying overhead defecated on the sidewall of my carriage. I would like to request this bird be found and brought in for questioning as to its choice for location for relieving its bowels. Additionally, there was a bugbear in the woods near Tuatha that ate a patch of berries that I may have wanted myself later. I want this bear found and tried for theft."

He folds the parchment and places it back in his pocket before continuing, "Now ladies and gentlemen, if any part of that sounds ridiculous and satirical to you, then you're right. These creatures were simply acting to their own nature. Well, if this court will be taking the charges against the defendant seriously, then any and all outlandish and ridiculous accusations must also be considered."

Connor folds his hands in front of him, "Your Majesty and gathered Nobles, by the end of these proceedings, I will be illustrating to you the absurdity of these charges as they have been represented and will be requesting not only that they be dismissed, but that reparations be rewarded to Saige as well as formal charges be brought upon her accusers, the evidence for which I shall be presenting as well. Thank you."

Kalil snorts a laugh and stifles it quickly.

Storm smiles and chuckles, turning her gaze to Miquella.

Katalina rolls her eyes, tilts her head, and then looks at Connor with clear interest.

Charlotte raises an eyebrow but otherwise does not seem to react.

Sofira remains stoic.