Trial of Winter and Spring [EMPIRE]

[Reggiejam]

Lady Autumn Elesi Deirma looked over the gathering assemblage. This was to be a trial of the Seasons and yet two did not show. Lady Spring and her personal friend Lilia of Escaye had been "captured" conveniently excusing Lady Spring from attending her trial and sheltering Lilia from the religious unrest in her former kingdom. Now stood before her Lady Blayne, the Lady Spring's Best Friend here to stand in her place and protest that Lady Spring had not stolen the Winter Court's portion of the Rose Throne. This gave Elesi inspiration that she could destroy the Spring Court's standing but to match such elation was the other absence. Lord Summer had arrived nearly a month behind the arrival of Lord Winter and Lady Blayne and he was not who she had expected to see. The foolish Maelog halfblood had run off to fight his memories rather than embrace his future and the memories had consumed him. His brother must have killed him for it was his elder brother who had arrived in Caer Hydref heralded as Lord Summer. Sabel had assured her Maelog would go along with their plans and satisfy the desires of the Summer Court, without his presence the imperious support of the Summer Aeldir grew tenuous. If the Rose Contract was to be broken Elesi wanted at least one other Court's support.

Lord Winter had arrived personally and despite her desire that the eldest Aeldir would to ensure the trial's legitimacy his deathly presence quietly made her wish he had stayed away. She knew him as a master schemer vying constantly to maintain the status quo. Why wouldn't he? For all intents and purposes the Winter Court sat supreme above the other Courts within the Rose Contract. The Words of the Olds Gods turned Aeldir minds to the reverence of the northern court as a repository of great secrets. Elesi had been shocked the Words were allowed to be restored in the Rose Contract and had long debated for their banishment. When she had spoken of restoring the Autumn Court to prominence she had gained momentum among her Court but she still carried her desire to see the Words banished.

She took a breath as the assembly died down and the accused stood before her. To her left the new Lord Summer was provided a simple throne at an equal level as her own simple throne above those of the Spring and Winter Courts. She stood firmly, hands crossed behind her as she spoke,

"Lord Winter of the Winter Court and Lady Spring of the Spring Court are summoned here before the Autumn Court as Keepers of the Law to face trial for perceived breaches of this Age's most sacred law, the Rose Contract. As the accused are a Lord and Lady of the Seasonal Courts it is only appropriate that they be judged by their singular peers, Lady Autumn and Lord Summer."

"Lord Winter, you stand accused of the murder of Lord Summer Turien Drustan. Lady Spring, represented today by Best Friend Lady Blayne, stands accused of treason against her own word in the theft of the Winter Court's portion of the Rose Throne. How do you plead?"

[Gengy]

Best Friend Blayne stood carefully before the assembled Aeldir, her simple purple dress accented only by the golden armband of her office. That the new Lady Autumn had managed to sway so many to her ways was of no surprise to Blayne. That was what Lady Autumn was supposed to do; be the holder of Aeldir laws, and if not it's enforcer, at least it's voice. The Autumn Court, for Ages upon Ages, maintained the integrity of the mandates set out during the Age of the Beginning. It was what made them frightfully dangerous to other Aeldir: they knew the twists and turns better then anyone.

Yet, for all the Ages, never before had both Lord Winter - eldest of Aeldir - and Lady Spring (said to be the most clever) been called upon to answer for crimes at the same time. Lady Spring, Gwydeth Aleuta, was quite pleased to have been called here, and by all reports, had been looking forward to this trial to clear away any final misgivings before moving on with her reign. However, the fact that she was not here was incredibly troubling.

Blayne gazed over at Lord Winter, and tried - unsuccessfully - to know the ancient one's mind. Did he see this trail as amusing? Something to occupy his time, show off his power, and make other Aeldir feel his anything-but-simple presence? Or did he perhaps see it as Blayne did? A farce. A desperate grab by the new Lady Autumn to assert her authority? To tip the balance of the four Seasons in her favor?

Lady Blayne was uncertain. Lord Winter, Balor Morrig, was more than a creature of mysteries; he was an enigma, even to other Aeldir, and his actions - his reasons for being - were too difficult to fathom. Blayne had lived several Ages herself - for a Spring Aeldir, she was quite old - but she had long ago stopped trying to understand the Lord of the Frozen North. Far better for her attentions to remain on those she could understand. Like Kellianth, the old scamp. She'd gotten away with everything. Blayne had watched her, slowly, carefully, trying to understand what her plans were. Kellianth had manipulated things in the Spring Court so very quietly for Ages, and it would have been fair to say that she had only assumed power over the Court itself when she was ready for it. And it seemed her plans had been so outlandish that even Blayne never could have guessed them: Do whatever Kellianth could to unite the Courts, and then - more shockingly - separate the pieces of the Rose Throne, forever sundering any Aeldir's ability to sit upon it and claim sovereignty.

And still, Kellianth had played games. Blayne still chuckled when she thought about Kellianth's distaste for the now Arandi-wide common languages. Unlike Lord Winter, though, who just outright seemed to refuse to speak in anything other than Aeldir, Lady Spring, Kellianth Beagen, had learned everything about those languages, and made a game of seeming like she couldn't speak of it. From what Blayne could tell, it was because Kellianth had found it... funny. It had amused her. Frustratingly of all to Blayne, Kellianth had taken the secret of that game to her grave. As Lady Spring, Kellianth had walked proudly to the Cave, and the Ritual of the Nap had been carried out flawlessly.

Until now, of course. Because it had brought about Lady Spring, Aleuta Kellianth. Blayne had been hesitant at first to see Aleuta become Best Friend. Blayne had watched the Girl, though, and she was competent, if young for a Spring Girl. Her time as Lady Spring was not the disaster that Blayne had thought it would be at first, and... eventually, Blayne had come to see what Kellianth had in Aleuta. A cleverness for things outside Tir Amser. Something that, with the Age of Expansion, was desperately needed. From the Spring Court's perspective, if Kellianth had been the kindling that had started the fire, Aleuta had been the roaring blaze. She'd made movements through Arandi that had changed the course of the world, and likely, her plans would have come to fruition just like Kellianth's would have... if she had not been slain.

By that point, Blayne had come to respect Aleuta, and had even asked to be Best Friend... but Lady Gwyndulin had begun to make a name for herself as the outside face of the Spring Court, while Blayne had continued to do what she did best: work from the shadows. Blayne held no illusions about herself; she was exceptional at being sneaky, underhanded, and unseen. Being brought out in the light, and acting in observance of everyone, was very much against her better judgement. Blayne had known it. Aleuta had known it. Blayne had accepted it when Gwyndulin had been named Best Friend instead of her, that the reason was exactly what Aleuta had said: Blayne did better work where she was, and not as a future Lady Spring.

And then, Aleuta had been killed. Murdered by the New Iron Gauntlet. Blayne had been... beside herself for several weeks, trying to figure out what to do. Had she been in a better state of mind, perhaps she could have stopped things. Perhaps she could have done more, in those early years, and prevented not only this trial, but also the worst thing possible for the Spring Court: Lady Spring, Gwydeth Aleuta.

As was her right, Gwyndulin had renamed herself after the Nap. While Blayne had no illusions about herself, Lady Spring, Gwydeth Aleuta clearly did. Outside the Court, she was respectful to her fellow Seasons - to the point of self-inflicted house arrest - but inside, she was waspish and quick tempered, and worse: reluctant. She was not bold. She was... relaxed. Assured of herself, now that she had reached the thing she wanted: power over the Spring Court. If the Rose Throne had still existed, Blayne was sure that Gwydeth was the type of Aeldir to have tried to sit herself upon it, and claim it for Lady Spring, in the name of the old ways. Gwydeth had only become active when she felt that her position was threatened. She had constantly sent missives to the other Seasons, until she had been satisfied that they did not hold Lady Spring responsible for the theft.

As to the murder of Lady Aleuta? Well, Gwydeth would no doubt be standing up today at this trial and screaming to all the Old Gods that would listen: Aleuta was clearly a thief, and her death had been retribution. It didn't matter that Aleuta had been one of the most honorable Aeldir that Blayne had ever met. It didn't matter that Blayne had known some of Lady Aleuta's planned death; a thing of beauty, something so bold and clever, it would have made her the most respected Lady Spring for Ages to come. It didn't matter that all the evidence was surprisingly suspicious, to the point of almost everyone with a wit knowing it was staged. No. It only mattered to Gwydeth that there had been no other evidence to counter it. It only matter to Gwydeth that Aleuta took the blame, and Lady Spring was blameless.

But... Lady Spring, Gwydeth Aleuta, was not here. And that... was probably a good thing. For her to have heard Lady Autumn call Lady Spring accused of treason - something she certainly would not have seen coming, so wrapped up in her own ideas was she - would have left her a confused mess. Gwydeth's outward image would have been shattered. Lady Blayne believe the phrase that she'd heard humans use was: She'd have completely lost it.

So in her stead, here stood Lady Blayne, Best Friend of the Spring Court. It... bothered her... to be this open; to be under so much scrutiny. But...

Gwydeth was not clever. She was not fit to be Lady Spring, in Blayne's opinion. And she would have completely lost it. Blayne was quiet. Collected. Her voice was like that of a loud whisper; like a refreshing breeze that had come from the cold mountains, Blayne bowed her head first to Lord Summer, then Lady Autumn, and finally, her fellow accused, Lord Winter. "The incarnations of Lady Spring, respectfully, plead innocence. I am prepared to present evidence... but first, I must ask, Lady Autumn: Where is my Lady Spring? She was under your care, and had, in fact, come here willingly and with relish. Though I would not presume to know all of her thoughts, she had confided in me that she was eager to have, in her words, this whole mess behind us so that Tir Amser might again move forward. Yet... now she is absent. She took no guards of her own, trusting in the protection provided by the Autumn Court."

"And, before you can ask, I know not her whereabouts. I am... rather on edge. I do not like the idea that some might suspect a Season is easy to pull from the heart of Tir Amser."

"Lord Summer. Lord Winter. I know we are gathered here for a matter of import, but this disappearance... Do you have any insights?"

[RandoMan]

Egan shifted uncomfortably as he stood before the mighty Aeldir lords and ladies of the Seasonal Courts. Since Maelog's... death Egan had found himself shuttled away from his desired destination of Avonlea to Tir Amser's Summer and Autumn Courtlands. Egan had visited the Courtlands only a few times in his youth among the Avonlean Court but never the Autumn Court. He found the perpetual fall of the enchanted lands disturbing seeing only the dying red leaves which hearkened back to Maelog. The members of the Dagda who had witnessed his brother's demise still accompanied him, having not left him to his own will since what they now called "the Duel of Lord Summer." He might have been bothered by the implication if he'd been given enough time to think. The Speakers read to him constantly of the Old Gods and spoke with him of philosophy during their travels.

When they had reached Caer Hydref they had imparted upon him the circumstances of the trial and left him to make his own decision. Egan wasn't sure what to think. From his conversations he thought the Dagda wanted him to side with Lord Winter and Lady Spring and he had been inclined to do so. Lord Winter was the lord of his wife's sire and by Avonlean unspoken standards was regarded as the highest most direct liege of the Avonlean Queen. Lord Winter had never treated Avonlea poorly and his youthful and marital biases tugged at his mind. He had heard Lord Turien had resented the Old Gods and Lord Winter and he had heard many times how his brother had felled him, sparing him to the Dullahan. A shiver went up Egan's spine as he thought of his father-in-law by secret marriage.

Again now his thoughts drifted to Eirwen. The Dagda had allowed him to send letters to her but they said none were returned. He didn't know if they had actually been sent and not replied to or if the Dagda were lying to him. They said the princess had been sequestered away somewhere highly secret as the Izele Clans had sent assassins after the Queen. It was equal parts believable and unbelievable and he wished he could be next to Eirwen, where he'd promised to be for the rest of his life, instead of debating the truth of what he was being told.

As the trial started he listened intently hoping he might manage to simply stay quiet and listen. When Lady Blayne spoke to him he broke out in a cold sweat. The Dagda had told him Lady Spring had been mysteriously kidnapped on her way to the trial but it had been Lady Autumn who told him that no Autumn guard reported seeing anyone approach or leave the camp. Lady Autumn had further suggested Lady Spring had "abducted" herself in an effort to avoid facing trial. Whatever the truth of it Egan didn't know. He'd only been Lord Summer for two weeks.

"I'm afraid I do not," Egan spoke loudly and clearly despite his nerves, pausing a moment too long before continuing, "But I'm sure the Courts are working on it. Right?"

He glanced around the room looking for an answering face.

[TheDarkDM]

The face of the Lord Winter was serene as he sat awaiting the beginning of the trial, his black eyes inscrutable, moving between the faces of his fellow Lords and Ladies. Or at least their surrogates. Beyond the passivity of his face, however, there lurked a satisfied grin. This trial was an impediment to his plans, it was true, but it was not an unexpected one. He had long suspected that the Autumn Court's affinity for foreign customs and declining influence in the Courtlands themselves would precipitate a challenge. Not of arms, or of whispers, but of clearly stated words. Those were, after all, Autumn's most potent weapons. And while he held no illusions as to his intentions here, Lord Winter appreciated that in this, at least, Lady Autumn remained wholly Aeldir.

But it was not simply Autumn's accusation which pleased him so. For sitting alongside her was the child of Summer destined to redeem his father's blood. The ambitions of Maelog had been plain, the ambitions of those who controlled him even plainer, and Lord Winter had been willing to help their plan come to fruition. For he well knew his masters worked through such Children of Destiny, and while the lesser son of Drustan Kiev fall to madness was predestined, his fall had been necessary to see his brother embrace his own greater fate. Now two bloodlines, two Children of Destiny, had bound themselves to each other in the world beyond Tir Amser, where his masters' influence was waxing. So it was that Lord Winter met Lord Summer's questing eye with an approving nod as he stood to address the assemblage.

<"Thank you, Lady Autumn. While it is well known to me the reasons you might suspect foul play in the passing of Turien Drustan, know that he was not murdered. Know also, lady of Spring, that the Winter Court stands with Spring in their confusion over the Lady Spring's abduction, and stand ready to assist our cousins.">

[Reggiejam]

"It is understood then that both Lord Winter and Lady Spring plead innocent."

Elesi continued in the proper fashion before addressing the Spring Girl, "Lady Blayne, rest assured our Autumn escorts are as confused and frustrated as yourself. Lady Spring was under close watch and no one had access to her without supervision. The Spring Court is known for its ability to hide and it is the opinion of myself that the most likely explanation is that Lady Spring has disappeared to avoid facing judgment at this trial. For such high treason if found guilty she may well face one of our most ancient punishments. It is logical that she fled and is now hiding to avoid the judgment of the law. After all, by virtue of the Rose Contract the Courts would be dependent upon a Spring Court investigation to find her and it is not impossible that the Spring Court might withhold facts out of sympathy for their former lady."

Elesi had been prepared for the Spring Court. What she was truly nervous about was Lord Winter. Sabel had promised Maelog would play as a firsthand witness to the Dullahan's forced abduction of Turien but with Maelog dead and the wildcard Egan in his place her position was much more tenuous.

"Lady Blayne, given your desire to search for your lady let us begin with discerning her guilt or innocence. Lady Spring is specifically accused of theft from an Aeldir, lying in her profession of innocence despite all evidence to the contrary, and breach of the Rose Contract for her attempt to collect and manipulate the sacred quarters of the Rose Throne."

"Multiple investigations have concluded Lady Spring's guilt in this theft and while fringe conspiracies exist declaring Lady Spring of innocence they have no evident support. I am also aware of the profession by Lady Spring that it was not Lady Spring but her former Best Friend, Aleuta Kellianth, who had committed these crimes. This despite the historical continuity of Lady Spring throughout the Ages as a constant to match the other Courts. While individuals may compose Lady Spring she herself is eternal. Just as Lady Autumn, as Lord Summer, and as Lord Winter. Lady Spring Aleuta Kellianth was found guilty by all three of her peers but no action was taken. Now we shall ensure a due justice is administered."

[Gengy]

<"I would not presume that my matter is more important than Lord Winter's own accusation, but neither will I argue the decision of Lady Autumn to see to the accusations levied on Lady Spring, Aleuta Kellianth."> Best Friend Blayne forced a respectful smile upon her face. Showing more than that would be... unwise. Blayne would be like Kellianth; she would let her plans ripen, and slowly tend to them before they were plucked. So now was not the time, though it was close. And it would certainly not do to be anything other than respectful to Lady Autumn. Gathering her courage, and casting away the ill feelings of being no great orator, Blayne said, <"Very well. Let us begin.">

<"The Spring Court does acknowledge the possibility that, had she wanted to, Aleuta Kellianth could have done the things she is accused of. Though young for a Spring Girl, Lady Aleuta was skilled. She had... something... that it often takes many of the Spring Court several Ages to fully realize: vision. She had vision of what she wanted to do, not for herself, but for the Spring Court, and indeed, for all of the Rose Demense. Like Kellianth Beagen before her, Aleuta Kellianth set her eyes on the betterment of all Aeldir, and while some might argue that she failed in the end, it is impossible to ignore the deals and trades that she established. I say this now not to sway people towards her one way or another; merely to establish that while it was well known that she had a private project, something she kept from everyone, everything else that did suggests that it was for the betterment of Tir Amser and our vassals.">

Lady Blayne did not allow her grey colored eyes to stray from Lady Autumn's gaze, but the Spring Girl did begin to move about. She was ready for Lady Autumn. She hoped. Certainly, there were going to be a few surprises. Time for the first. <"I said that I am prepared to give evidence of Aleuta Kellianth's innocence. This evidence is partly from my own knowledge, but also largely due to others. I have more than one witness that I shall call upon; know that these witnesses are, by my word, under the protection of the Spring Court... but hopefully under the protection of all of the Rose Courts, for they came here willingly.">

<"The first witness is someone whose word I deem irreproachable. By my own word, I attest that he knows not that he is a witness, and this will be the first time we have spoken of this matter."> Finally breaking her gaze, Lady Blayne turned and looked upon Balor Morrig, Lord Winter. Nodding her head in deference, Lady Blayne again addressed the assemblage. <"Lord Winter. As Lady Autumn said, you passed judgement upon Lady Spring, Aleuta Kellianth. I would not ask you to change that judgement any more than I would ask Babdi to change the tide; but I regret that I must ask for a secret to be revealed. Please, allow me to explain.">

<"Before the death of Aleuta Kellianth occurred, she confided in me, one of her Spring Girls. She said to me: She was afraid. She had a terrible fear... a secret she had been keeping since she became Lady Spring. She would not want to go back into the Cave of Spring, not of her own accord. The greediest personal desire of Aleuta Kelliath was to never set foot in the Nap Cave while she yet lived... but that, of course, presented a problem. For Lady Spring to remain an eternal, by the traditions of the Spring Court, Lady Aleuta must re-enter the Cave. So... she decided that she would do so, but on her own terms. And that is why she confided in me. At the time, I was the Spring Girl in charge of secret matters. For Tir Amser, I have carried out request after request, and have told none, save Faolan.">

<"But Aleuta was quite clever. She did not tell me everything of her plans for her death. Only that it would benefit all of the Rose Demesne. And that... she would need the help of Lord Winter. For my part, I was to be prepared to assist in recovering her body. When I first heard of her death, I had thought, So soon? It went against everything that I knew. And that her body was in Glaw Novo... well, it did nothing for Tir Amser. It did her no honor. No glory. It did not further the goals of the Aeldir. She was just... dead."> Blayne was not used to talking so much, but she knew she had to make people understand. This was just the first link for the chain that was the truth, but it was an important link. <"I am saying that Lady Aleuta had a grand plan. We are Aeldir. We all have plans.">

<"And the very worst thing that I can think of at the moment is to have those plans cut short, or for them to go awry."> Lady Blayne once again moved her gaze, to the new Lord Summer. <"For the unexpected to happen. For our world to be shaken, and our plans to be completely changed.">

<"So my very first point, Lady Autumn,"> Lady Blayne turned again towards Elesi, <"is that for Lady Spring to have stolen a piece of the Rose Throne - for her to have wanted to combine the pieces yet again and sit down upon it against the wishes of Kellianth Beagen - Aleuta's plans would have involved her being alive to see them come to fruition. Or so I surmise. So why then did her plan involve her death?">

With a final turn, yet again towards another Season, Lady Blayne once again bobbed her head in deference, <"I have but two inquiries for my first witness. Lord Winter, Balor Morrig, Eldest of Aeldir and Master of Wisdoms, please grace us with the answer to these two questions: Did Lady Aleuta make a secret deal with you concerning the coordination of her death, and did her abrupt demise spoil that deal?">

[TheDarkDM]

Lord Winter's eyebrows rose as lady Blaine continued to speak. That Aleuta had revealed her most secret of designs to this Spring Aeldir spoke to her loyalty, but it also spoke to Aleuta's overconfidence. Still, the questions did shed doubt on her ambitions, and it was not in Lord Winter's nature to betray his blood with a lie.

<"The Lady Aleuta had indeed made arrangements with me to facilitate her disappearance and subsequent...end. While the Winter Court upheld its obligation in the arrangement, her death at the hand of the Iron Gauntlet was not of her design, and denied her the satisfaction of her last great scheme.">

[Gengy]

Best Friend Blayne nodded her head in respect, a silent thank you to the Winter Lord; an acknowledgement of a minor debt to be repaid at some later time. No secret was given away for free. Not from Balor Morrig. There would be a price, and Blayne would pay it, in time. She had incurred it simply by asking for the Keeper of Mysteries to reveal something. The genuine reaction of surprise - something so minor as Lord Winter's raised eyebrows - was telling enough to all Aeldir: Lord Morrig had not been informed he would be asked this question. That he had reacted at all was telling it it's own way.

The Aeldir would make of this what they willed. Lady Autumn would surely point out... flaws in the logic. That was what Lady Autumn did. Blayne weighed the options: give her the chance, or...

Blayne chose the latter. Point out the flaws herself: <"This alone is not nearly enough to establish innocence. That a Season would make a deal with another Season can be seen throughout the Ages. That part of that deal would involve the death of one of the participants? Perhaps rare, but certainly not the first time. Lady Aleuta could, I admit, have been trying to lay a false trail. Something to do what I have just done: bring doubt to the thoughts that she was the guilty party.">

<"And yet, there are a few other questions I would like to have considered, before my next witness is called."> Blayne turned from the assembled crowd of Aeldir, to once more face Lady Autumn. <"If we were to speculate that Lady Spring, Aleuta Kellianth, were guilty - and this is purely speculation - then I have cause to wonder: Why were the Ugly> Larimps <chosen to receive the piece of the Rose Throne? How would that further any goals for Lady Spring to collect all the pieces? Either the piece would be found - in which case, it would be returned, as it rightfully has - or it would remain unfound, in which case the Rose Demesne would still be scouring Arandi for it... and Lady Spring and the Spring Courtlands would look incompetent. Eventually, and this is again just supposition, Lord Winter would have likely insisted on checking all of Tir Amser, stone by stone; and any who disagreed would have been seen as suspicious. The theft of a piece of the Rose Throne was more disruptive than it was unifying. Nearly no one believed that it was the Ugly> Larimps <whom had committed the theft.">

<"For that matter: why steal a piece of the Rose Throne to give to someone else? Lady Spring could easily have ordered any Spring Girl - even me - to take our own piece and lay it upon the door of an enemy, giving Lord Summer all the justification he needed to wipe said enemy off of the face of Arandi. None would have questioned it, if had been done correctly. It is for this reason that I do not suspect Lord Winter of committing the theft. Firstly, if it had been him, it would have been done with exceedingly more skill and there would have been no room for doubt.">

Looking away from Lady Elesi and back to Balor Morrig, Blayne continued, her tone still respectful as it raised further questions, <"Secondly, even after it's return, I cannot imagine a situation where (had it been a scheme of yours, Master of Wisdoms), you would not have continued to press such an advantage upon the Spring Court. Instead, the piece was returned, and while you have perhaps shown no great love of the Spring Court in the past years, neither have you made any kind of displeasure known, feigned or otherwise. Instead, by your own wisdoms, we now have methods such as the Letters of Transit to better be certain of those who belong on Tir Amser and those whom do not. I see no benefit to you moving the Rose Throne piece any more than I see the benefit for Lady Spring to send our own piece away.">

<"The third reason I have for disbelieving that Lord Winter - or in fact, Lady Spring - might be guilty of this theft is, again, who the piece of the sacred Throne ended up with. To aid the Rose Courts, the Ugly> Larimps <have been carefully... observed by the Spring Court. I confirm for you now what we already know: they are not only Ugly, they are Weak, very Un-cute, and though they try to hold a Secret, they lack skill. How they came to power in their lands is quite possibly the greatest mystery we have yet to understand about them. Not only are they rude, they are proven liars. In short: If we were to send a piece of the Rose Throne to anyone as part of some great scheme to give us some kind of cause for war... it certainly wouldn't need to be those detestable creatures. If they were now not the vassals of Transfilia, I have little reason to doubt that we would not have stepped in and liberated all of the people forced to carry the weight of the otherwise incompetent> Larimps." Blayne did not like her time observing or investigating the creatures. It was self-inflicted torture, and provided very little use. Most of it now; to be able to state with complete confidence that the Larimps were simple not worth any more time. Lady Blayne bobbed her head once more from Lord Winter, to turn it respectfully towards Lord Summer.

<"Lady Aleuta was not always correct. History shows that she made enemies, and was struck down by one of them. The Spring Court still continues to try and find out how the New Iron Gauntlet committed this crime. What Lady Aleuta was however, was clever. She did not strike me as someone to have to waste an otherwise perfectly clever scheme on the> Larimps. <A scheme that is now ruined, and unusuable without causing all of Arandi to question us. Lady Aleuta was for too clever to make that mistake. She more than earned her time as the eternal Lady Spring, where being clever is a requirement to even be considered. For though she made enemies..."> The entryway to the assemblage began to stir, as someone began moving. It was Eoghan, the body guard of Lady Aleuta; absent many years from the Spring Court, first to train under the Rangers, and now - by all accounts - still training under the Dullahan. Two swords stayed sheathed and tied at his back. And two non-Aeldir followed behind.

<"She also made friends."> Lady Blayne turned to see Eoghan, and the ones that he brought with him. <"Lord Summer. Lord Winter. Lady Autumn. Though the Spring Court makes no claims upon removing her from confinement, we do lay claim to ensuring that she make it here, to this place of safety. May I present my next witness: Lilia, the Lady of Emerald.">

[Zayuz]

Lady of Emerald. Such was the title of the former Queen of Escaye, removed from her position and continuously reduced to little more than a prisoner of her successor. Being a naturally peaceful person, she had tried to accept the change, though it had done her no good. In the end her acceptance should have lead to her demise, had she not been so kindly rescued by those who still valued her presence. In terms of appearance, her curved horns had not changed through her years. Neither had the same emerald scales that marked her place as royalty among her people. Rather than the lavish dresses she had always been adorned with at the Rose Courts events, she instead wore a simple black cloak, with nothing to decorate herself aside from the two small aspis that still followed her loyally; A treasured gift from Avonlea during a time of diplomacy long lost.

Much of her beauty was kept with age, though the scar across her face did her none too kindly. In a set of decisive steps she settled alongside her post where she knew she was to be standing. After so many years of political struggle in her home, the setting of a courtroom was almost second nature. Before she spoke, her eyes scanned the assembled Aeldir across the room. They were all prominent figures, despite the lack of one of the defendants. She had heard the start of the debate from where she had been waiting alongside the room, even if she could only roughly make out what each one was saying. Her association with the Spring Court girls who had stayed with her in her homeland was a source of great knowledge in this place. Some parts of their culture had even rubbed off on her - Principally being the quirk that involved always speaking the truth. Her word was all she had now, and in a case like this the lesson rang ever more true.

<"Greetings, members of the Rose Courts. I am Lilia of Xeroas, once Queen of Escaye and friend of Lady Spring. I had come because that I had been rescued by a member of my people who had remained loyal to me, and has swiftly delivered into the hands of the Spring Court. It did me great honor to stand before you today, and tell you of the.."> Though she spoke directly and confidently, the woman faltered. She was familiar with the Aeldir tongue through her friendships with the Spring Girls, but even then her accent was very far off what anyone else sounded like in the room, and her tense was frequently confusing past and present. It made her hard - But not Impossible - To understand, if any effort was made at all. <"..Friendship, between myself and Lady Aleuta, who I think would have be here on trial."> Her grammar started to deteriorate as she continued to speak, obviously passing the part that she had rehearsed in her mind beforehand. Hopefully the effort alone would be enough, though by reputation she was unsure if such was enough to please the Aeldir Lords. Lilia did not seem nervous in any right, which was a feat for one that might be posted on trial in foreign lands in a foreign tongue.

[Gengy]

For the assembled Aeldir, Lady Blayne took in the scene. This was the second biggest surprise that she arranged, and Blayne wanted very much to watch and gauge the reactions of the other Courts. The Spring Girls and Boys found at the trial were muttering and tittering, but that was to be expected. The elder looking Winter Court, the strong bodied Summer, and the careful Autumn Aeldir... those were the ones Blayne wanted to know how they felt about Lilia's appearance.

Lady Aleuta had once stated to the current Queen of the Dynasty of Escaye that Lady Spring would not meddle in Crystal Union politics. Lady Blayne now walked a very thin line: This was not meddling with foreign politics - not quite - as Lilia was here to answer questions for the Rose Demense. It was tenuous, but it still was true, and the very thin lines were those that Aeldir found the most delicious.

<"On behalf of the Spring Court,"> Best Friend Blayne began, <"We welcome you, Lady of Emerald. So long as you tell the truth, the Spring Court offers you safety in Tir Amser. Proven falsehoods will revoke this promise. I freely admit: I have spoken with you before this trial, and have warned you of the consequences of untruths then, as I have warned you now. What I also say to the Courts and Seasons before me is this: the Spring Court has reason to believe that the Lady of Emerald has information relevant to the accusation of Lady Aleuta. However, I have not asked Lady Lilia to divulge any of this information until now; she stands before you with a willing heart, for a friend.">

<"Perhaps the honorable Seasons might have others after she answers mine, but I have simple questions for her, that it is my hope will provide complicated answers. Lady Lilia of Xeroas: concerning the accusation that Lady Aleuta Kellianth was the thief of the Rose Throne piece from Lord Winter's domain, what evidence do you bring to this trial, and by what reasons can we trust that evidence?">

[Zayuz]

Lilia took a moment to straighten herself before responding, almost hesitating now that she had come so close to the truth. This is partially what had allowed this catastrophe to grow as large as it had, having been under the threat of death and or exile from her own people on the account of treason. In a way she was still betraying them, though as it stood the current Crystal Union were her people no more. They were consumed by Onyx, in a move that she cursed herself for not having seen sooner. If Zellevera and the new 'Queen Paige' had the audacity to forsake their rights as people and duty to their country, surely it was high time that she bring their house of cards down from where it stood along the terrible wall that hid their deeds from the rest of the world.

<"Yes. I see no need to dance around it - I come as witness to the true events which had happen from the perspective of the Crystal Union, the ones who are truly responsible for the theft of the throne piece your courts hold so dearly."> A short pause was left so that the assembled crowd to take in what she had said before continuing. <"The Rose Courts have largely been seen as rivals to most in the south since first contact has been made. Our records tell that first interaction between us is a threat of war on the part of the Autumn Courts to the Dynasty of Escaye. I was not Queen at such a time, but King Hilden was the one who received the response as king. He stay his hand for the conflict, but the tone was set for future relations to be more tense than others. I testify before you with evidence that Queen Zellevera of Escaye, in accordance with Niran Krainm of the five tribes, Queen Theda of Jagalata and Chief Hemo of the Ruby Legion were the ones who organized and framed Lady Spring for the act of stealing the piece of the Rose Throne. My evidence be my word as witness to such events from aside, but be certain I was never involved. Like all Aeldir I have adopt the tradition of only speaking in truth, which I believe should be proof enough to explain. For the reason why that I should be believed, I would allow my role in stopping the war between the Crystal Union and the Rose Courts, my reputation as a one who reached out to the aeldir in a time of tension, and knowledge of information inside of the Union to help convince all who hear my tale of the truth on my words..">

At this point she started to speak quicker, losing much of her speaking skill in her attempt to get everything out in one long story. <"I am ashamed to say that while I have known this information long, I did not come forwards to prove the innocence of my friend. At the time the Dynasty was under rule of the Archbishop of the Order of the Eternal Soul. This man was not involved in the theft. While he was in power, neither Zellevera or I got to be Queen. However, this does not be we do not have influence. I was present when Zellevera started sending letters to those who were involved. The scheme was plan equally by the leaders of the Crystal Union, in which we would make true on our denunciations of both Nifhel and the Aeldir during the gathering of faith, in which Lord Winter had attend."> The woman looks to the older Aeldir Lord, a faint look of vexation painted on her face. <"The two had insulted our leader of faith, and offer no apology in the days before he had died. Avlen is a sacred figure, and the disrespect given to him by both people was perceived as great issue. It means to others that Aeldir do not respect us, and believe that we are a lesser people.. I know not if this is the case, but my interaction with Lady Spring and her girls that were sent to my land shows otherwise. When Zellevera came into power, she suggested we make true on our denunciations, else our people might look weak. She convinced the council and the other rulers to follow her down this path, and during this scheme she was elected as Queen of Escaye in my place.. I never support the suggestion that we should steal the throne, but Zellevera wanted to cause chaos and conflict between Aeldir. I almost did tell Aleuta during my visit to the Courts, but the threat of death and being labeled traitor lay upon my conscience. I forever regret not have tolded her what my people have done that day. ..This does also mean that the same group of leaders is responsible for the thief of the Helm of Fimbul.. How does one say? Holy artifact of Kalamahar? They hope to drive them and Nifhel to war, which almost work.. But such is not why we are on trial here.">

<"The plan was to deliver the throne to have be hidden in Jagalata with their Queen, but that year Jagalata had entered war with Transfirlia. In the transfer to her, it was taken by them, and they assume the larimp have stolen the piece. It was sad to see the fruit of their scheme work out so well when many are hurt, including the ones who had agreed to have hidden the chair despite their role in the grant scheme. The truth was unable to be revealed, because in the Queen's death all loose ends were tied. Investigations were set by courts, but Chief Hemo ruins them by placing false evidence. The furfolk are small, and manage to frame the Spring Girls who are of similar size for the act in ways that I had never been told. At that point I had been removed from even the council, and Zellevera place me as prisoner because of my potential to betray her for the truth.. As I am now. Before I finish, I would like to include that I almost escaped once to come and tell you all of this, but was caught by Zellevera and used as bait for the Iron Gauntlet.. As much as I would like to apologize for the actions of my people, I cannot. They allowed their pride to cloud their actions, and in doing to condemned Lady Aleuta to a fate where her innocence was never been proved, the Rose Courts to years of conflict, and the good reputation of my southern federation to be cast away in flames. I can say that to my knowledge it was not any of the people of the Crystal Union who ordered the assassination of her after, as they thought it would be more good to let it cause distrust between all Aeldir while she was alive and unable to prove her innocence. I will curse whoever did such a terrible thing to death, as the guilt of knowing but being unable to act had caused me many tears. I might have taken my life as prisoner to Zellevera, but one of my guard convinced me that there was still much to be alive for. That things like this can still be revealed before the truth dies. Because of him I stand before you, and reveal the light of truth on this court, so that the Lady Spring might not be plagued any more by a crime she had not committed.">

Lilia sighed, finally done with her story. It was a long one to be sure, but hopefully the Aeldir would find the meaning within it. One of the aspis had taken to resting on her shoulder just at the end, which revealed to her just how tense her shoulders had gotten. It felt like a weight had been lifted from her in getting this out once and for all. If her life was claimed now, she could at least say to her gods that she righted her biggest regret, which that had to count for something. If this went as well as she hoped, this might re-unify the aeldir, prove Lady Spring's innocence, and make them aware of the corruption in the south. If she could get them to fight back against the Onyx revolution even as members that did not follow the order of the Eternal Soul, even better. Their federation would surely be depicted as the angels of battle that came to stop the world from being ended - And their legacy engraved in Eternal Soul legend. ..Which would totally happen, right?

Lilia's naive way of thinking had largely to do with the hope inspired within her by finally being able to present her story. She assumed by default that this would right everything, while still being unaware of just how deep the divide between the Aeldir Lords had become. Having been prisoner for so long, it would be hard to fault her for it. Last she had seen of the Rose Courts, they were very much unified with only select few events dividing them as people. Unfortunately, times change.

[TheDarkDM]

While Blayne's direct question had surprised the Lord Winter, this unfolding drama did not. He, and many within his court, had suspected the Crystal Union to be the ultimate architects of the throne's theft. After all, they alone stood in direct opposition to the Aeldir in the south, and their ambitions were poorly concealed. With the Union itself overcome by waves of chaos and regicide, it had seemed likely that a survivor might step forward. Some former functionary of prominence. But the Emerald Lady? The former Queen of the vaunted Dynasty? That exceeded his expectations. His eyes were cool as he examined her, standing strong yet against the ravages of mortal time, and as she began to speak his face broke into a smile that was thin but encouraging. A smile that masked an altogether more predatory glee.

War with the Crystal Union had been an inevitability for years. Their false righteousness, their blind ambition, all had set them on a path of collision with the Demesne. Treaties had been signed with their neighbors, who saw in the Aeldir the promise of ascension, and more clandestine meetings held with the Union's common foes. Yet for nigh on a decade the Great Power of the South had sat in shadows, content with a war cold as Lord Winter's homeland. But now, Lilia's testimony. Not simply of a plot carried out against the Aeldir, but one that saw mortal hands taking hold of their most precious relic. A plot that had seen the death of a Season. That alone would have been enough. But to confirm the complicity of the Larimps as willing partners rather than blind dupes? To tie themselves no only to the theft of the Throne, but to that of the Nifhel's unholy crown? To cast further doubts on the ultimate legitimacy of the entirety of the Crystal Union's government? It was perfection, a killing blow, and all delivered by one who loved the Union above all else. The horned woman continued to speak, but beneath her halting rendition of the Old Tongue Lord Winter heard the growing heartbeat of destiny.

Doom. Doom. Doom.

Finally, he wrenched his attention away from the former Queen, back to the dais where his accuser sat.

<"As one of the accused, I would not presume to question the witness further before Lord Summer and Lady Autumn.">

[Reggiejam]

Lady Elesi leaned back in her chair, fingers laced together as her brow furrowed with thought. She had remained silent throughout the revelation of Lilia and the Emeral Zaj's confessions. As Lord Winter spoke she answered.

"You would betray your kingdom and the kingdoms of those you swore to aid and defend for Lady Spring?" she spoke directly to Lilia but did not pause for a reply, "You must be either incredibly foolish or deeply vengeful."

"If what you say is true, Lady Lilia, then the Demesne must march on your homeland and the head of Zellevera must be claimed. I do not know your reasoning, be it as you say a desire to see the truth revealed or instead that your opponent who so long has kept you as her prisoner would be disposed of leaving only one Emerald Zaj to rule the Dynasty. Whatever it is if you are believed and what you have said is taken at truth you will have sacrificed the Crystal Union in your testimony. I don't believe you would do that over the matter of truth."

"You say you have adopted the Aeldir law of speaking only truths but you are not Aeldir and so this claim means nothing. You have, as you admit, been a source of diplomatic relations between our Courts and the southern confederation of kingdoms and quite adeptly too to have made friends with Lady Spring. Your purported confession would cause war between our people, a war you would now benefit from rather than struggle to face yourself. The Aeldir have often chosen locals to administer an Expanse within the Demesne, or perhaps you seek to become a Member of the Demesne, I do not know what has been promised to you but your word alone is not enough to convince me of the truth. I shall consider your words but I reserve judgment for now."

She turned now to face the eldest Aeldir.

"Lord Winter, while myself and Lord Summer contemplate the issues relating to Lady Spring's case it would please me to hear your testimony. You are accused of plotting and executing the death of Lord Summer Turien Drustan. While circumstances in the Summer Court have prevented the arrival of a detailed witness," her eyes glanced over to the new Lord Summer beside her, "Knowledge is held by this court, for revelation following your testimony, that suggests you took the life of another Aeldir outside the laws of Demesne and Words. You claim he was not murdered so explain how he died within your Court?"

[TheDarkDM]

Lord Winter bowed to Lady Autumn as she began her questions, bemused to hear Sabel's pawn referred to as a detailed witness.

<"You had but to send word and I would have commanded any member of my court attend your questions, Lady Autumn. Turien Drustan spent some time as my guest in Caer Cheimhridh before his passing, and several Aeldir in my service could speak to his final days. But to the matter at hand, Turian Drustan passed in much the same way as Drustan Kiev - by accepting his sacrifice in the eyes of the gods. Though his doubts were many, he performed that final duty and earned his just reward.">

[Reggiejam]

"And we are to take your word for this?" Elesi raised an eyebrow, "We all know as Aeldir we are bound to our word and to be found guilty of untruths as a severe criminal offense. I would very much wish to hear the testimony of those you profess as witnesses. To clarify these were witnesses to Lord Turien's ultimate demise or of his stay as a guest in Caer Cheimhridh?"

Anticipating her call to testify Lady Sabel had appeared at the back among the gathered. Elesi gave her a near imperceptible nod before returning her gaze to Lord Winter anticipating a response.

[TheDarkDM]

Lord Winter's eyebrows rose in measured dismay.

<"I do not regard the word of the Aeldir as simple law, Lady. To utter falsehood would strike to the core of who - of what - we are. I am greatly disturbed that the word of a Season is no longer sacrosanct in the eyes of the Autumn Court. There were no witnesses to what transpired between Turien and I. It was a sacred thing, as was the first binding of Summer and Winter. To his time at Caer Gheimhridh, I can offer witnesses in abundance. To what transpired in the heart of the Vaults of Winter, I can offer only one. Turien Drustan.">

[Reggiejam]

"Because it is more than a mere law does not absolve it of status as law, Lord Winter. You are accused of murder based on the knowledge of Lord Turien's known opinion regarding your Court, yourself, and the matter of his predecessor's demise being in such opposition to the posited idea that he went willingly to his own. I do not claim you speak untrue, I merely inform those foreign guests brought by the Spring Court what you surely know. Were I merely asking you directly regarding a manner less heavy than the taking of an Aeldir's life against their will by an Aeldir your word would be more than enough but the circumstances of an Aeldir's life, nay a former Seasonal Lord, are at the root of this discussion."

Elesi leaned forward as she spoke and sat now fingers clenched tightly on the armrests.

"If you have no witness but the dead and yourself you have no witness. Lady Blayne has come representing her missing Lady Spring with testimonies and a logical case. I do not know if I believe it is the whole truth but I believe it contains truth. If you have no more to offer than your word in such a dire matter I will move to call my witness to explain why I believe you have offended 'our very core'."

[TheDarkDM]

Balor Mirrig's gaze was quizzical at Lady Autumn's suggestion of witnesses, before a flash of revelation crossed his face.

<"Death is not the end, Lady Autumn. It is simply a journey from one world to the next. The dead are not beyond our reach. But I would gladly hear testimony in support of your suspicions that we might address all with a single bridging of the divide. It is...taxing.">

[RandoMan]

Egan's eyes fell upon Lady Sabel as she appeared within the crowd. He leaned forward, eyes locked with the Summer Aeldir. Eirwen had told him of the former Consort's manipulations of his brother and his brother's death had proved to him that someone had inflicted a great hatred upon him. He listened as Lady Autumn and Lord Winter exchanged but as Elesi began to call on Sabel Egan stood up from his chair.

"This witness is not fit to challenge the word of Lord Winter," he interjected with an accusing finger pointed towards Sabel.

"Lady Sabel, you remained First Consort from Lord Turien's to my own brother Maelog's reign. I am now Lord Summer and I inform you that you are stripped of this title and all standing in my Court. You may flee to the Autumn Court but your place is tarnished in my eyes. You trained Maelog and myself alongside Eirwen as children and yet now watch my brother die without pause to your schemes?"

His eyes fell upon Elesi.

"Lady Autumn, you accuse Lord Winter and Lady Spring of treason but to what end? Do you truly wish to find justice for the dead and the Larimps? I think that unlikely. This entire trial is a farce and I do not need to hear more to cast my lot with Lord Winter and Lady Spring. You damage your reputation with these accusations, Lady Autumn."

Egan turned now to face Lord Winter though spoke that all could hear.

"Lord Winter, my father turned to you and found peace in death. My motherland reveres your honor and stewardship as her liege. These strictures of equality among our Courts, a noble experiment of yourself and our predecessors, now restrict and bind our hands. For centuries the Seasons ruled independent of the other Courts in all things. This union now weakens and limits us with challenges of authority and restrictions. I believe the time for the Rose Contract's union has ended. The Demesne needs a first among it to show the world we are strong. I would swear my blade to you."

[Gengy]

Lady Blayne had more witnesses, if she needed them. The one called Torn was to be the biggest surprise. Yet another, perhaps more trustworthy witness, was also somewhere nearby.

But she kept her mouth closed and watched. She learned quite a bit by staying silent, and just observing. Lord Winter was... Lord Winter. Implacable. Unflappable. Lady Autumn was, from what Blayne could tell, not as prepared as she'd like to be for this, her own gathering. She had, in Blayne's estimation, been expecting something else to happen. Perhaps if Lady Spring were here, things might have gone more Lady Autumn's way. Or perhaps if the old Lord Summer were here.

But he was not. And this Egan boy was... young, and brash. Qualities that made him an excellent Lord Summer for the time being. But to declare fealty to Lord Winter...? To tip the balance so fully in one direction...? That was bold. Bold and unsettling.

Certainly not what Lady Autumn had called this trial for. Bowing her head towards Lord Summer then to Lord Winter, Blayne spoke, <"As representative of Spring, I am open to the idea of discussing changes.">

<"However, the Contract remains in place for the moment, and serves it's purpose for that moment; in that the three gathered Seasons are equals here, and while I certainly respect my betters, without Lady Spring here, my voice is the voice of Glaw Novo. As such, concerning the matter of accusation of Lord Winter, my opinion is that it is not needed that he call upon Lord Turien... though I admit to being curious about seeing it happen sometime. Spring sides with Lord Summer for the Trial; Lord Winter is seen as not guilty.">

[Reggiejam]

"You reject my witness out of hand Lord Summer," Elesi argued, rising to her feet to match the southern halfblood, "And you Lady Blayne shall receive no vote as Best Friend of Lady Spring."

"It is the opinion of this Court Lord winter has failed to prove his innocence. The Spring Court shows too it's ambitions to join behind the banner of the Winter Court against my own authority to hold accountable my peers. If slanders are issued against my witnesses and the lesser representative of the runaway Lady Spring votes as my equal while declarations of vassalage are made among the Seasons it is seen that already the Contract lies in shatters. The Autumn Court shall not be beholden to a contract already sullied by the hands of other signatories."

"The Autumn Court leaves this Contract and withdraws from the Rose Demesne. We will not take lands, or soldiers, or the faith. No, we will travel to live with our brothers and sisters in Besina that we may be close to return when this farce collapses. Some may choose to stay but there shall be no Lady Autumn upon Tir Amser."

[TheDarkDM]

Lord Winter remained seated as the drama unfolded before his eyes, but as the Lady Autumn announced her self-imposed exile, he finally stood.

<"If you would judge me before the fullness of my testimony, Elesi, so be it. But the judgement of an outcast former Season is of little interest to me. Take yourself and your followers from this place in peace - those with so little faith in the ideals of the Demesne and its leaders have no place on Tir Amser. Flee to Besina, if that is your wont, and find what solace you can there for I renounce your proclamation. There will be another Lady Autumn, as there has ever been and as there will ever be. And she shall stand apart from the corruption that has risen from your reign.">

With that, he seemed to dismiss the former Lady Autumn altogether from his mind, turning towards Lord Summer and the Best Friend of the Spring Court with an overwhelmed bow.

<"You do me too much honor, Lord Egan, son of Drustan Kiev. As do you, lady Blaine. I signed the Rose Contract in full knowledge of the ambitions each Season abandoned with its passing, and did so without remorse. Yet I too can see how the mighty engine of our people has stalled in the past decades. We have grown strong, but even as the constellation of our Demesne has blossomed with peoples and cultures we have grown divided in purpose. Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter once moved with a singular will, and if I might somehow restore us to that golden time I would. I accept your blade, Lord Summer, but only so long as you stand at my side to wield it. And lady Blaine, should Spring not object it would be my honor to see through the eyes of your peerless agents. If we should have a leader, let it be simply a first among equals, for I have heard the whispers of our Old Gods and the time is not yet right for any to sit the Rose Throne.">