Agenda for the Private Meeting of the Judiciary Council of Myrken Wood

[Cinnabar]

[OOC: Invitations and a copy of the agenda will be dispatched to the members of the Judiciary Council, inviting them to a closed Council meeting at the Calomel farm in order to discuss matters relating to the new state of affairs in Myrken Wood. If your Councillor shows up, good, read on. If not, just a note saying so is fine - though it'll make me cry if no one shows up because this has taken a whole bunch of typing. :(

I'm hoping to keep things moving as quickly as can be managed, given people's schedules; I'd really like to have this thing wrapped up within the week, if possible.]

--*--

Agenda for the Private Meeting of the Judiciary Council of Myrken Wood, 17th of September, Anno Regalis 207
Matters for the Consideration and Discussion of the Judiciary Council, being of Import to the Welfare of Myrken Wood and the People of that Territory.

1. On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor
   
2. The Thessilane-Derry War
   
   1. The Council's Official Stance on the War
   2. Provision for Refugees from Derry
3. Measures to be taken against Famine
   
   1. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries
   2. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service
4. The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom
5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry
   
   1. The Brotherhood of Janeiro
   2. The Myrken Constabulary
   3. Reviving the Militia
   4. The State of the Ringwall
6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood
   
   1. The Ashfiend
   2. The Order of the All
   3. The Violet Dawn
   4. Other Threats to the Territory
7. Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse
8. Administrative and Financial Matters
9. Any Other Business

--*--

[OOC: Because of the difficulties inherent in organising an in-channel Council meeting, I'd like to have a go at running it on the boards here.

Since to-and-fro conversations are prone to stretching things out far longer than is reasonable or desirable, I'd suggest that the format be one of posting a summary of your Councillor's views on the items above, including what measures they would propose or are in the process of taking to deal with them. For example:

[size=75]Item 6a: The Ashfiend
Calomel cusses out "that stank-nasty corpse-faced sumbitch" for a solid five minutes, details the widespread the fear and destruction that the creature has inflicted upon Myrken, and exhorts the other Councillors to support an effort to "whack" the ghoul.

After everyone's had a chance to say their piece then there'll be a suggested Motion on each point to formalise the general consensus, and the Councillors say yea or nay in replies to that post. For example:

Item 6a: The Ashfiend
Motion Tabled: (Calomel) Whack that sumbitch.
In Favour: Unanimous.
Against: None.
Result: Motion Passed, Motion Carried.

If you want to include any particularly pithy or resonant quotes from your Councillors that's cool, but please bear in mind that the aim is to get things done and hopefully dealt with in a fairly smooth and efficient manner. There aren't that many Councillors, so it should be pretty easy to just whip through this.

PLEASE NOTE: Rather than posting point-by-point reactions to someone else's views and thus ending up with a huge bloated thread of many many posts, please consider just editing your post to reflect your Councillor's amended or revised position.

Because meetings are, by their nature, boring, and I'd like to keep this one as to-the-point and non-boring as possible. :) [/SIZE]]

[Cinnabar]

1. On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor: Calomel graciously thanks the Councillors for their support and forebearance during the period of transition, and pledges to serve the people of Myrken Wood to the best of his abilities.
Amended: Calomel expresses disappointment that Councillor Aldred does not see fit to approve or support him in his role, but hopes that at the very least he can look forward to Councillor Aldred's cooperation in the governance of the territory.

2. The Thessilane-Derry War
[INDENT]2a. The Council's Official Stance on the War: Calomel proposes that the Council stand united in condemnation for Duke Burel's unprovoked and unjustifiable assault on the sovereignty of Derry, in particular his use of powerful and destructive magics on the field of battle.
Amended: Calomel expresses curiosity regarding Governor Aldred's proposal of a journey to Golben, and would prefer more information on the purpose of the trip before he agrees to such.

2b. Provision for Refugees from Derry: Calomel proposes that the Ringwall gates be kept open unless there is risk of imminent assault, in order to allow refugees passage to safety within Myrken Wood; Sir Malaroth of the Shepherd Knights has agreed to assist in organising camps for the displaced Derry refugees until a more long-term solution becomes apparent.
Amended:
Calomel supports Councillor Spier's proposal that refugees from Derry might aid in bringing in the harvest, but suggests that it be a voluntary arrangement, and subject to their being paid a fair wage for their labour.
Amended: Calomel also offers thanks to Sir Malaroth for his order's work so far, and agrees to send a contingent of Constables to ensure that the Peace is maintained among the refugees.
Amended: Calomel politely notes that while the Councillor for Defence and Civil Security's approval is surely appreciated, the Constabulary remains under the purview of the Office of the Governor.[/INDENT]

3. Measures to be taken against Famine
[INDENT]3a. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries: In coordination with Councillors Spier and Goldenhair, the Office of the Governor has approved the release of funds necessary to bolster Myrken Wood's food stockpiles ahead of the winter, and also to construct sufficient granaries to house said stockpiles.
Amended: Calomel finds Councillor Aldred's suggested date of completion for the new granaries to be reasonable.
Amended: Calomel commends Councillor Treadwell for his generous contribution to Myrken Wood's foodstores.

3b. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service: Calomel proposes that farmland abandoned by Pritchite communities who have fled Myrken Wood should be subject to mandatory purchase by the Judiciary Council, the payment to be dispatched to the former owners wherever they might be found, or held aside for them to claim if they cannot easily be located. The land should then be made available for new tenants at a reasonable cost, subject to their pledging a reasonable portion of the farm's output (the suggested fraction being one part in eight) to government food stockpiles for the next five years. Tenants willing to pledge a larger fraction should be given preference.[/INDENT]

4. The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom: Calomel reports that thanks to the efforts of various groups including the Constabulary, the Shepherd Knights, the Brotherhood of Janeiro and the Violet Dawn, the citizens of Foggy Bottom are in the process of making a laudable recovery from the Ashfiend's assault upon their town.

5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry
[INDENT]5a. The Brotherhood of Janeiro: Calomel calls into question the wisdom of employing a Thessilanean mercenary company at a time when Duke Burel of Thessilane is expressing worryingly expansionist ambitions, and invites members of the Judiciary Council to reassure him that the Brotherhood can be adequately trusted to safeguard Myrken Wood's borders.
Amended: Calomel acknowledges Councillor Aldred's vouching for Janeiro, and hopes that it is money well spent. He also hopes that the funding used to retain Janeiro's services are properly directed through the Government's accounts to ensure clarity of bookkeeping. And allegiance.
Amended: Calomel agrees with Councillor Treadwell's suggestion that Myrken's defence and peacekeeping forces be required to wear appropriate insignia to indicate their allegiance, and proposes that instructions be issued to the Militia and the Brotherhood to this effect; Members of the Constabulary are already required to identify themselves by wearing their badge (which bears Myrken's coat of arms) while on duty.
Amended: Calomel acknowledges that the general consensus is that the Brotherhood will remain loyal for the simple fact that they are being paid; he expresses confusion over why, then, a military body funded by and thus supposedly loyal to the Government of Myrken Wood should be permitted to take direct action against that Government with apparent impunity. Would the Council not agree that such behaviour sets an undesirable precedent?

5b. The Myrken Constabulary: As High Constable, Calomel reports on the Constabulary's recent activities, the impact of those activities on crime within Myrkentown and surrounding areas, and proposes the establishment of a secondary Constabulary headquarters in Foggy Bottom to see to the safety of the citizens there.
Amended: Calomel notes Councillor Treadwell's concern, and assures the Council that the circumstances which allowed the criminal Volpone to escape have been identified as magical in nature, and countermeasures are being implemented against such.

5c. Reviving the Militia: Calomel suggests that following a period of neglect, the Militia is currently in a poor state to defend Myrken Wood from attack. He proposes a renewal of investment in that organisation, with a view to having them trained and equipped to serve in a supporting role to professional soldiers in the field. He proposes this investment be funded by making participation in the Militia mandatory for all able-bodied men and women of fighting age, but from which an individual may be excused on payment of a fee which will go towards the Militia's upkeep. He additionally suggests that the defence of Myrken Wood is a responsibility shared by all citizens, who have a moral obligation to support it by providing either their arms or their coin.
Amended: In response to Councillor Spier's question, Calomel proposes that the Militia,as a military rather than a police force, would have its own senior officer and chain of command, and would come under the Council's jurisdiction.
Amended: Calomel clarifies that he is not suggesting conscription, but rather an encouragement for volunteers to the Militia to step forward. If funding for the Militia is not a problem, then that is all to the good.
Amended:Calomel respectfully disagrees with Councillor Treadwell, and notes that the Constabulary is a civilian police force rather than a military organisation, and was established as such following problems resulting from using a military body to police the citizenry. Myrken at present lacks a military force of its own, instead having to rely on expensive and potentially treacherous foreign mercenaries who fight for coin rather than for their country.

5d. The State of the Ringwall: Calomel invites the Councillors to consider the state of the Ringwall constructed during Governor Guillaume's tenure, and how adequately it serves its supposed purpose of protecting Myrken Wood from external aggression, even in the light of recently-performed reinforcement work. He also invites any members of the Council who were Councillors at the time to offer some justification of the collossal expenditure of funds and effort involved in its construction.
Amendment: Calomel thanks Councillor Treadwell for his explanation, but stresses that he is most firmly opposed to the refugees from Derry being misused in any way. If they are willing to work for Myrken's prosperity, Myrken should be willing to pay them fairly for it rather than exploiting their desperate circumstances.
Amended: Calomel suggests that if the refugees from Derry are welcomed and allowed the opportunity to find a new and productive life for themselves in Myrken Wood, then that can only add to the prosperity of the territory.[/INDENT]

[OOC: continued below due to character-limit on posts][/INDENT]

[Jirai]

Spier

1. On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor: Spier wishes to know if anyone is aware of Bromn's actual condition, beyond "missing."

2. The Thessilane-Derry War
2a. The Council's Official Stance on the War: Spier agrees with Calomel.

2b. Provision for Refugees from Derry: Spier is concerned about the strain on food supplies; recommends that refugees be put to work in the fields, where extra hands can increase the harvest soon approaching.

3. Measures to be taken against Famine
3a. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries: Granarie construction has begun; Spier is working on obtaining more food supplies, but wagons only travel so fast.

3b. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service: Spier has no objections.

4. The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom: No comments worth mentioning.

5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry
5a. The Brotherhood of Janeiro: Spier has no reassurances on this matter.

5b. The Myrken Constabulary: No comments worth mentioning.

5c. Reviving the Militia: Spier would like to know if the Constables expect to undertake the militia training, or if the groups would be seperate; if the later, under whose jurisdiction?

5d. The State of the Ringwall: No comments worth mentioning; not a councilor at that time.

6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood
6a. The Ashfiend: Spier mentions that his knowledge of anything martial in aspect is absolutely abysmal.

6b. The Order of the All: "Thank the One-God for small mercies."

6c. The Violet Dawn: "Perhaps they can make our own vegetables a bit more successful." More to the point, Spier would like to know if the cult or its leader has actually done anything illegal.

6d. Other Threats to the Territory: "More mercies, hooray."

7. Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse: Spier has no knowledge on this matter.

8. Administrative and Financial Matters:

9. Any Other Business:

[Wendy]

Little to do but wait for replies and debate, Pemberton keeps to her chair assignment with a ready pen and a dark bottle of ink.

Her jaw is set and tensing as things going on in her head are given attention, at least until the councilors bring their opinions to the foreground of this meeting.

She is one to draw little pictures on parchment while she must wait, but at this meeting, she refrains from doing so. Instead, she watches those in attendance, and begins penning their names, counting them as "present" for this discussion of things part or all of Myrken Wood has been involved with.

And then, as opinions are unleashed, she is able to be busy for the duration.

[Kylerryth]

1. On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor: Aston Jylan does not approve of nor actively support Calomel's ascension to power, as he did not with Helstone or Bromn; however, like with Calomel's predecessors, he does not make a motion to dismiss Calomel.
Amended: Aston Jylan assures cooperation -- for the time being. Again, he does not make a motion for Calomel's dismissal.

2. The Thessilane-Derry War
[indent]2a. The Council's Official Stance on the War: Aston Jylan agrees with Calomel: the invasion of Derry was unprovoked; the horror wrought by the Duke's channelers, abominable. In addition, Aston Jylan requests that Calomel and Malaroth join him on an expedition to an area in northeastern Myrken Wood -- a town once known as Golben.

2b. Provision for Refugees from Derry: Aston Jylan does not like the idea of the Ringwall gates being kept open, refugees or not, but understands the necessity of it for the time being. He will command the Brotherhood as the Council decides in this matter. In addition, Aston Jylan agrees with Spier's proposal and Calomel's subsequent amendment.
Amended: Aston Jylan finds Malaroth's request reasonable, and as Councilor of Defence and Civil Security approves of the idea. Maintaining order among the refugees is paramount.[/indent]

3. Measures to be taken against Famine
[indent]3a. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries: Aston Jylan informs the Council that food continues to arrive from Xanth Grange by way of Heath and from Amasynia, but also notes these shipments have decreased in quantity and are likely to cease entirely before the middle of autumn due to the possibility (or, more accurately, the probability) of inclement weather. Aston Jylan suggests to Spier and Goldenhair that Myrken's own harvest and what has been sent by its neighbors be stockpiled and the aforementioned granaries constructed and full in preparation of winter no later than the third week of October.
Amended: Aston Jylan also commends Treadwell for his generosity.

3b. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service: Aston Jylan has no objections to Calomel's proposal.
Amended: After considering Treadwell and Goldenhair's opinions, Aston Jylan finds himself in official agreement with Treadwell but personal agreement with Goldenhair; he believes the former to be fair, the latter just. In the end, however, he sides with Goldenhair on the matter -- while Myrken Wood is prospering despite the multitude of threats, the money could be better spent.[/indent]

4. The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom: Aston Jylan has no comment aside from congratulating the various organizations on their combined efforts.
Amended: Aston Jylan acknowledges the validity of Treadwell's concern, but assures the Councilor that the leaders of their respective forces know what they are doing.

5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry
[indent]5a. The Brotherhood of Janeiro: Aston Jylan does not argue the logic of Calomel's thought; in truth, it worried him at first as well. Aston Jylan, however, assures Calomel that the Brotherhood of Janeiro is loyal -- and paid very well for it.
Amended: Aston Jylan assures Calomel that detailed records of all accounts associated with the Brotherhood are kept and can be reviewed by the Council upon request. While Aston Jylan does not necessarily disagree with Malaroth on the point of mercenaries being unreliable, he does point out that Myrken's first military (as it came to be, anyway; Goldenhair verifies it), the Order of Straka, was in fact a guild comprised entirely of foreign mercenaries -- some, if not most of the very same mercenaries that now inhabit Tempestia, no less. Aston Jylan informs Malaroth that he will personally speak to Marshal Karolinger about relations between the Brotherhood and the Shepherd Knights, and that he hopes the initial friction between them will not prove to be detrimental to the greater good -- that being the safekeeping of Myrken Wood. Aston Jylan does not believe the recommended identifying insignia to be necessary, but understands the desire behind the motion; he withholds judgement for the time being.

5b. The Myrken Constabulary: Aston Jylan has no comment aside from congratulating Calomel on a job well done thus far, and agrees to Calomel's proposal.

5c. Reviving the Militia: Aston Jylan does not disagree with Calomel's assessment of the Myrken Militia, and while he would like to see its ranks bolstered, he does not believe conscription is the answer and points out that such a move might prove to be more harmful than helpful in the long run; nor does he see the need to charge the people for participation or lack thereof, as they already pay regularly in taxes adjusted accordingly by Councilor Treadwell. Aston Jylan will readily agree with Calomel on two points: a) the Myrken Militia must be properly trained and have continual training so they may be ready at a moment's notice; and b) the defense of Myrken Wood is the responsibility of all its people. Aston Jylan assures Calomel a solution for both will be found, but insists that for now they worry more about the former than the latter.
Amended: At this point Aston Jylan feels it prudent to mention that the Myrken Militia is in fact not an active military force but meant to be an emergency reserve; that its members have always been volunteers; and that while there are aspects of it that could use improvement, he firmly believes that better training and equipment are the first steps to inspiring further interest and involvement from Myrken citizens. Aston Jylan hints at another idea, but does not voice it currently.

5d. The State of the Ringwall: Aston Jylan was not a Councilor at the time of the Ringwall's construction; he has no comment about the funds used. Aston Jylan does, however, mention that the Brotherhood monitors the Ringwall gates and five miles in each direction heaviest, and the rest of it as best as they can. Aston Jylan adds one more thing: after an intensive survey of the Ringwall, he acknowledges that it will not withstand siege weaponry of any sort, magical or not; and he acknowledges that despite the good intentions of Lothbury, the Ringwall serves little purpose beyond being a minor obstacle for those desperate enough, intrigued enough, or possibly insane enough to want to sneak into Myrken Wood.
Amended: Aston Jylan also opposes exploitation of the refugees, and reiterates that maintaining order among them is paramount; they should be fed and housed, yes, but they should not be allowed a free run of the province.[/indent]

(OOC note: Continued below due to character-limit on posts.)

[Malaroth]

1. On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor: Sir Malaroth Deucalios approves and supports Calomel's claiming the mantle of Governor and reminds that though he is responsible first and foremost to the King that his own support of the High Constable does not speak to His Majesty's wishes one way or the other.

2. The Thessilane-Derry War
2a. The Council's Official Stance on the War: Though the Thessilane Duke seems to claim that he wishes the best for his neighbors Sir Deucalios' view is that such words are merely a mask for the Duke's own militaristic agenda. The war is indeed condemnable.

2b. Provision for Refugees from Derry: The Shepherd Knights are in the process of moving the Derry refugees into the heartlands of Myrken Wood near the knighthood's chapterhouse and have taken the temporary responsibility of policing them. However, Sir Malaroth requests the Constabulary send a small task force of constables to spearhead such policing efforts for which the knighthood will be at their disposal. Sir Malaroth also agrees with Spier's proposal and Calomel's amendment.

3. Measures to be taken against Famine
3a. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries: No comments worth mentioning

3b. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service:
Malaroth agrees.

4. The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom: The effort has proven to be a slow by distinct success in sowing peace where the Ashfiend has wrought madness and destruction. It is becoming readily apparent that structural damage and loss of life were not nearly as bad as originally feared but rather the citizenry as a whole now faces a powerful struggle to reclaim their lives and identities.

5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry
5a. The Brotherhood of Janeiro: With all due respect for the Brotherhood's fighting prowess, Sir Deucalios asserts that the mercenaries are ultimately a dangerous element that should be fazed out of Myrken Wood's defenses. "Mercenaries work for coin, and someone else always has more." Furthermore, the Brotherhood has also engaged in reckless behavior and threats of bodily harm to certain knighthood members, unprovoked, and are therefore sowing dissension in the ranks. Finally their identity as Thessilanes could also prove dangerous, as per Calomel's assertion.

5c. Reviving the Militia: While Myrken faces many threats conscription is rarely a good answer.

Sir Deucalios proposes that the council should send word to His Majesty and ask for strong military reinforcements to bolster their ranks as opposed to peasant conscripts.

5d. The State of the Ringwall: Sir Deucalios asks whether or not the Ringwall might be reinforced to provide defense from siege weaponry.

6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood:
6a. The Ashfiend: Sir Malaroth agrees that the Ashfiend must be stopped by unified council action. For the moment, his own forces have struck a tentative agreement with the creature - the Ashfiend will leave Myrken Wood in peace for three weeks at the end of which a member of the knighthood has agreed to meet with him. Thus far the Ashfiend has honored the agreement a week and a half.

6b. The Order of the All: No comment.

6c. The Violet Dawn: Even if the orphanage were constructed without proper provision, Sir Malaroth will strongly condemn any forthcoming notions of knocking it down if only for the sake of turning children out into the streets. While the religious movement does possess strong control over its members it has also proven itself to be philanthropic in nature. While the philosophy may indeed prove to be a threat, Sir Malaroth warns against condemning the Violet Dawn because of the Order of the Alll. Sir Malaroth supports an investigation of both the movement and its leader.

6d. Other Threats to the Territory: Sir Malaroth may be heard to mutter to himself that the only other threat to Myrken Wood is the Brotherhood.

7. Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse: No comment.

8. Administrative and Financial Matters: No comment.

[Treadwell]

1. On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor: Perfectly appropriate and fitting. There is no complaint over whether Cinnabar should hold the governorship--although, as Treadwell notes from his own experience, holding two offices at once can occasionally become tiresome. In addition, it presents a problem of balancing things out, power-wise. He recommends, with all due respect and politeness, that Governor Calomel perhaps see to finding a suitable (whether temporary or permanent) assistant, aide, or replacement for his duties as Constable.

2. The Thessilane-Derry War

2a. The Council's Official Stance on the War: The war itself is not something to be commended at all. Rather, it is to be condemned if an opinion is asked, although Myrken Wood's responsibilities ought not be to reach outside her own borders. Goodness knows she has enough problems within them. However, as for helping those who come to her. . .

2b. Provision for Refugees from Derry: Welcome them all with open arms! The Council can surely find places to build houses for them if they seek to live there, renting out the land at favorable rates or selling a spot here or there as asked. Any wishing to live properly in Myrken Wood on a permanent basis will need to take all appropriate measures in recording such a request for citizenship, including registration for taxes. Otherwise, finding an inn or commandeering a suitably sized building for their temporary stay and service is of utmost importance.

3. Measures to be taken against Famine

3a. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries: While this is certainly not the Councilor's area of expertise in terms of public consideration, he does know a thing or two about the matter, having managed his own resources well enough to gain a bit of weight during the most recent famine! To this effect, he will here offer reassurance that paid men will be brought in, with a shipment of food, from his own workers and supplies in Westenford within two weeks. He certainly has enough sitting there to spare, and bringing in a shipment from a coastal city also means the inclusion of a very limited, safely stored and donated portion of seafood and fish--all at no expense to the Myrken Wood Council.

3b. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service: This proposal is found agreeable, and the funds are certainly available. . . although Treadwell will recommend that if unclaimed payment remains unclaimed longer than, perhaps, four to six months, that it and the farmland be fittingly absorbed by the Myrken Wood Council.

4. The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom: Excellent work, yes, but a warning remains: Myrken Wood should not spread herself too thin. She can't provide relief for everywhere ravaged by warfare, famine, pestilence, or death.

5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry

5a. The Brotherhood of Janeiro: As long as they can remain loyal, all is well; however, Treadwell recommends that some manner of identification be placed on all military, be they Janeiro, Constabulary, Militia, or otherwise, identifying their allegiance to Myrken Wood.

5b. The Myrken Constabulary: An excellent piece of work drawn largely from Myrken's own ranks--although some need for reassurance on Treadwell's part is much requested. If the wiles of a woman can help a middle-aged thief to escape (a thief who has Treadwell's end on his own agenda!), then what can the Constables do to prevent something like that from happening again?

5c. Reviving the Militia: By Tubbius's great hairy gut, aren't there enough military groups in Myrken Wood already? Should any funding and services not be put toward backing the Constabulary instead, given its position as an already recognized force drawn from Myrken's own ranks?

5d. The State of the Ringwall: Being perhaps the only Councilor to have served at the time, or to have been anywhere near the government then, Treadwell adds a few points. . . . First, the purpose for the wall was to prevent outside invasion. Without seeing an invasion first hand, it is impossible to say yes or no as to whether it is adequately serving its purpose. However, he adds that with the amount of magic and ill-will Myrken sees on a regular basis, no simple wall will be enough protection. There might even be some scoundrel who could use that wall against Myrken somehow! Second, the colossal expense of funds and labor are certainly, by today's standards, with today's threats, not justifiable on any sensible scale. Third, however, maintaining the Ringwall, if it must be done, could easily be accomplished with the help of the aforementioned Derry refugees and minimal or adequate pay--perhaps in coins, perhaps in a place to live!

6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood

6a. The Ashfiend: It seems this is one bothersome fellow. However, threats magical and mysterious are certainly out of his field of expertise. Finding some way to slaughter him unmercifully would be best, of course!

6b. The Order of the All: "Well, they're not carving words into people, kidnapping folks, or doing anything like summoning the Baie again. Let 'em rot, mmph mmph!"

6c. The Violet Dawn: Treadwell is quite sure some fine or other can be found for building a structure when it's been expressly forbidden by a Myrken official. Other than that, he agrees with Malaroth that simply shutting it down at the moment might not be the best course of action; besides turning children to the streets, doing so might also lead to rebellion by its members and workers.

6d. Other Threats to the Territory: While not mentioning a threat to the territory as a whole, Treadwell does bring up the still-present thorn in his own side of the thief named Reynard Volpone, better known as "The Fox." An accurate description will be provided for the other councilors (in summary: slim, average height, red-haired and graying, tending toward red silks and an ever-present fox fur cloak, with rapier and dagger as weapons; he is a rogue of exceptional caliber, known for feats of derring-do and seemingly boundless good luck he fails to deserve. He is also a man who's tried assassinating Treadwell on at least three occasions). Treadwell will then ask a careful eye be played on Miss Alessandra Demarest, who seems to be in league with this scoundrel.

7. Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse: No comments, here.

8. Administrative and Financial Matters: Myrken Wood is seeing a period of relative prosperity despite all its supernatural enemies. People are paying taxes on time, for once, and with minimal fuss. No funds are mysteriously missing. Continued monetary success is certainly a distinct possibility for the rest of the year; exact figures can be provided after Treadwell has a chance to tally up this week's tax income.

9. Any Other Business: No other business.

[Cinnabar]

6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood
[INDENT]6a. The Ashfiend: Calomel invites Councillors to suggest a unified plan of action against the Ashfiend, given that the previously-approved policy of negotiation and appeasement appears to have failed spectacularly.
Amended: Calomel suggests that an adequate explanation of the Ashfiend situation would take more time than is practical at this meeting; indeed, perhaps another meeting of the Council might be called in the near future, devoted fully to this subject, in order that a full briefing may be provided.

6b. The Order of the All: Calomel reports that little further activity from the cult of the Baie has been noted, though this may simply mean that its members are lying low. A number of known members are under observation, but have not done anything to draw attention to themselves of late.

6c. The Violet Dawn: Calomel suggests that despite its apparently philanthropical nature, the group known as the Violet Dawn, under the control of one known only as Vraal or Sin'Vraal, is exercising an excessive hold over its members; indeed, many of those affiliated with the Violet Dawn have signed their property over to the keeping of the organisation, which indicates an unseemly level of influence that Sin'Vraal, as leader, holds over his followers. Calomel invites suggestions on how best to approach this fresh cult that grows in power and membership in a manner every bit as disturbing and unnatural as their overly-successful vegetables.
Amended: In response to Councillor Spier's question, Calomel notes that according to his files, Sin'Vraal's orphanage was built in spite of being explicitly forbidden from such by Councillor Aldred, and could thus be viewed as an unauthorised construction.
Amended: Calomel respectfully notes that since the Constabulary falls under the purview of the Office of the Governor rather than the Councillor for Defence and Civil Security, approval from that Office was required in order to sanction action against Sin'Vraal's illegal building work. Governor Bromn was advised of this, yet no such approval or order was given. Since the situation has changed, Calomel proposes that the orphanage be subject to a compulsory-purchase order by Myrken's government; Vraal might be reimbursed a nominal amount for the land upon which it was built, but the orphanage itself would then come under the Council's control, thus preventing any exploitation of its vulnerable residents.
Amended: Additionally, Calomel suggests that religious organisations be required to register with Myrken's government, part of that registration requiring agreement to review of their activities by an official inspector.

6d. Other Threats to the Territory: Little has been heard of late of the subterranean creatures which had beset Myrkentown at the time of the last Meeting; likewise, no further word has been forthcoming from the self-styled Lord Zayken.[/INDENT]

7. Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse: Calomel invites a report on the current status of the Myrkentown Meetinghouse, and an interim report on how the half-million shillings pledged to this project at the last Council meeting have been allocated thus far.
Amended: Calomel thanks Councillor Aldred for his update on the status of the Meetinghouse's reconstruction.
Amended: Calomel suggests that, if it is not too late for such - and given the further delay it seems unlikely - perhaps the Council might employ the services of one Sylvius Duquesne, an architect of no small talent currently resident in Myrken Wood. He is apparently most adept at designing such ambitious structures as the rebuilt Meetinghouse promises to be, and at the very least it might be worth having him as a consultant on the project.
Amended: Calomel suggests that, while it might take some while to obtain all of the building materials required for completion of the new Meetinghouse, it might make more sense to begin construction as soon as possible, and get as much work done as can be managed before the full onset of winter. From what he understands the site has already been cleared of rubble, so work on digging the foundations and perhaps erecting the basic framework might as well be started since Councillor Aldred already has the master craftsmen staying with him.

8. Administrative and Financial Matters: Calomel invites Councillor Treadwell to give a brief report on the state of Myrken Wood's finances.
Amended: Calomel expresses relief that Myrken's economy is in such relative good health, food shortages notwithstanding.

9. Any Other Business:
Amended: Calomel thanks Councillor Aldred for attending this meeting, as the lack of reply from the Aldred estate to his previous communications were leading him to fear for the honourable Councillor's wellbeing. He expresses relief that this worry was unfounded, and looks forward to the Councillor's continued service to the people of Myrken Wood. Additionally, if the Councillor has any useful information garnered from these meetings, Calomel invites him to share them with the rest of the Council.

[Vanidor]

On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor

- Vanidor will not say if he agrees or disagrees with the method in which was used to acquire the Governorship. Just that he remembers that it is not the Crown or invading armies he should worry for, but the land and the people.

The Thessilane-Derry War

1. The Council's Official Stance on the War

- To the Governor, he would state, his opinion has already been given. Sometimes, however, war is a necessary evil that must be done. Adon knows that the humans have practiced it for years. Trea Kelsa against Amasynia, Amasynia against Trae Kelsa, as well as the lands beyond the seas. Yet, otherwise, he has no comment on the matter.

2. Provision for Refugees from Derry

- Of course, one must be seen as compassionate, truth or not.

Measures to be taken against Famine

1. Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries

- The introduction of a new strain of grain to the stock that already feeds Myrken has been tested, and thusly planted in a few farms acquired by the Councilor for experimenting purposes. The plant, so far, has proven to be more resilient to heat that has seemed to plague the province these last few years. Time will tell on if they are as hardy against the chill of winter.

2. Returning Neglected Farmland to Service

- Vanidor is of no objection to returning the farmlands left fallow since the departure of the Pritchites. Yet he objects to -paying- those people for their land due to the manner in which they left and revolted against the good will of Myrken. He sees no reason to waste coin that could be better spent in the province to upgrade the roads and the farms themselves when they become usable once again.

The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom

- No comment here, leaving it to others to decide.

Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry

1. The Brotherhood of Janeiro

- While not knowing the exact numbers, he would point out that he knows that at least a quarter of the Brotherhood is made up of native Myrkenlanders. And he himself has officiated over a few weddings between men who were native to Thessilane, and women who were born and raised here. It could mean nothing. It could mean everything. And really, do they need to change their heraldry? That could be messing with something that shouldn't so be messed with.

2. The Myrken Constabulary

- They do their job, is there need for more to it?

3. Reviving the Militia

- He would remind the others that trouble has always followed when one wished to revive the Militia beyond what it's intended purpose was for. For all the time that the Elf has lived in the region, it has always been a company that was loyal more to coin than province that has protected the land. He would also remind them that the Order of Straka was, once, a foreign mercenary company before they settled and dug roots into Myrken soil.

4. The State of the Ringwall

- No Comments on the Matter.

Threats Facing Myrken Wood

1. The Ashfiend

- There would be no statement made here. As the man would keep his comments to himself.

2. The Order of the All
3. The Violet Dawn

- It would be the same for the next two topics, though he would be opposed to having the members of any religion having to register themselves to the government. Perhaps almost vehemently, if the elf could ever be called vehement.

4. Other Threats to the Territory

- No comments.

Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse

- He would smilingly thank the Lord of Aldred for seeing that the coin they had each so graciously donated to the rebuilding is finally seeing some use. And he would eagerly await the sight of a new building.

Administrative and Financial Matters

- As long as we have the funds to continue to construction of the granaries that are needed, and to continue the experimentation in the fields... He would have no other comment.

[Kylerryth]

6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood
[indent]6a. The Ashfiend: Aston Jylan does not know of a previously-approved policy of negotiation, and would not have approved any such proposal in the first place. Regardless, Aston Jylan agrees with Calomel: the Council must develop a unified plan of action against the Ashfiend. As Calomel has the most experience with and knowledge of the Ashfiend, Aston Jylan suggests that he propose the first plan.
Amended: Aston Jylan agrees with Calomel, and points out to Treadwell that, yes, the destruction of the Ashfiend is likely to be their ultimate goal -- what is not so much the question as how. Aston Jylan does not

6b. The Order of the All: Aston Jylan has no comment aside from agreeing with Calomel's assessment of the Order.

6c. The Violet Dawn: Aston Jylan confirms that he expressly forbade the construction of the orphanage but had no apparent support from the Constabulary on the matter, therefore no recourse. Aston Jylan notes that the Violet Dawn follows a disturbing trend of the Order of the All: the apparent manipulation of its followers' minds to an extreme degree by means unknown. Aston Jylan proposes that the members of the Violet Dawn be monitored, albeit distally -- the focus should be Sin'Vraal, their leader.
Amended: Aston Jylan states that a copy of all correspondence was submitted to the Office of the Governor, but feels that he and Calomel are brewing a pointless argument over political structure; therefore he dismisses the matter and moves on. Aston Jylan assures Malaroth that destroying the orphanage had not crossed his mind; in truth he found the idea noble, but did not trust the task of its operation, considering the very nature of an orphanage, to a man he had never heard of. He dismisses Treadwell's idea of a fine; he is certain it would be paid without protest and would have little to no effect. Aston Jylan, like Goldenhair, opposes Calomel's suggestion that religious organizations be required or otherwise compelled to register with the government and/or report their activities, pointing out that such a move would likely alienate a portion of the populace and, in the case of secretive cults like the Order of the All, would have little to no effect on them or their activities due to their very nature and relative obscurity. For the moment Aston Jylan stands by his previous statement: the Violet Dawn should be monitored but not interfered with, not unless they become a viable threat to Myrken as a whole; and their leader, Sin'Vraal, should be monitored closest of all.

6d. Other Threats to the Territory: Aston Jylan has no comment aside from murmuring a brief prayer of thanks.
Amended: Being the Councilor of Defence and Civil Security, Aston Jylan does not at all like the news of a notorious assassin-thief and his apparent cohort running rampant in Myrken Wood. He asks Calomel, as High Constable, to confer with Treadwell on the matter.[/indent]

7. Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse: Aston Jylan apologizes for the considerable delay in the new Meetinghouse's construction, but states that he has been awaiting the arrival of a set of plans -- which he is now in possession of -- and of two men, a carpenter and a mason, both from western Amasynia and both highly praised for the quality of their work. While these men are of course not present at the meeting, they are guests at the Aldred Estate and, in accordance with the plans, will begin construction as soon as the necessary materials have been gathered -- unfortunately, this means construction will not begin until spring, when the weather clears. However, Aldred assures the Councilors that the wait will be worth it, and allows them a tidbit of information: the gallery alone will be able to seat upwards of 2,000 people comfortably.
Amended: Aston Jylan apologizes again for the delay -- and the additional delay -- but assures the Council that the wait will be worth it.
Amended: Aston Jylan has no objection to the inclusion of Duquesne, another architect, in the construction of the new Meetinghouse; he will gladly welcome additional input and experience into the making of the new building. He also does not object to Calomel's proposal of beginning the digging and subsequent laying of the building's foundation, as well as perhaps the first-floor stonework, but believes the framework should wait until the spring thaw so as not to risk any possibility of structural damage.

8. Administrative and Financial Matters: Aston Jylan has no comment; he awaits Councilor Treadwell's response.
Amended: Aston Jylan seems pleased to hear that Myrken Wood is prospering in the face of adversity, but sours slightly at the mention of taxes.

9. Any Other Business: Aston Jylan apologizes for the lack of communication and any recent visible action on his behalf. In addition to tending to the Aldred Estate, a responsibility he shares with myriad other members of the household, he has been surveying the Ringwall; meeting with Marshal Karolinger, various members of the Myrken Militia, and Coran D'zir; and, most recently, visiting Ricathair in Amasynia, to solidify relations as deemed necessary by the imminent Thesil threat.
Amended: Aston Jylan assures Calomel that all is well, and that his silence was due to a lack of time, not a lack of interest or concern. As for the various meetings, he has little to offer beyond what Calomel, Malaroth, and the other Councilors may already know: that the Ringwall is impressive in its scope but serves little actual purpose and will not survive a siege of any sort; that Marshal Karolinger maintains the loyalty of the Brotherhood and awaits further orders; that the Myrken Militia continues to monitor key defensive positions throughout Myrkentown, where it is based; that Coran D'zir, the Count of Calael County in Thessilane, is a pleasant and down-to-earth fellow, and was the person who took him and Marshal Karolinger to view Golben; and that Amasynia also condemns the invasion of Derry, but for the time being refuses to commit its military forces to any side but its own. On the other hand, Amasynia will continue to deliver shipments of food to Myrken Wood until it is no longer feasible -- i.e., when winter arrives.

[Cinnabar]

[OOC: Since things seem to have been pretty much discussed, here's a list of the resulting measures and responses that will be proposed for the Council to enact; they should represent something of a compromise of the views expressed in the meeting, and thus be acceptable to most if not all Councillors. Mostly. Anyway, just reply to the thread and give a "Yes/No/Abstain" answer to each point, and then we've got something to be going on with. "Yes" means that the motion is accepted in its entirety, as-is. So - onwards!]

Proposed Actions from the Private Meeting of the Judiciary Council of Myrken Wood, 17th of September, Anno Regalis 207

1. Item: On the Transfer of Authority within the Office of the Governor
   Motion Tabled: That Cinnabar Calomel be recognised as Governor of Myrken Wood.
   In Favour: 3 [Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
   Against: 0
   Abstained: 2 [Goldenhair, Aldred]
   Result: CARRIED
   
2. The Thessilane-Derry War
   
   1. Item: The Council's Official Stance on the War
      Motion Tabled: That the Judiciary Council issue an official condemnation of Duke Burel's invasion of Derry.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   2. Item: Provision for Refugees from Derry
      Motion Tabled: That resources be made available to provide the refugees from Thessilane's invasion of Derry with basic shelter and provisions, distribution of such to be organised by Sir Malaroth Deucalios. Additionally, that said refugees be permitted to seek employment within Myrken Wood for the duration of their displacement, and that any refugees employed on government work should be granted wages equivalent to those paid to Myrken residents.
      In Favour: 5 [Aldred, Calomel, Goldenhair, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 0
      Result: CARRIED
3. Measures to be taken against Famine
   
   1. Item: Expansion of Food Stockpiles and Construction of New Granaries
      Motion Tabled: That resources be made available for the construction of new granaries and acquisition of increased food stockpiles for winter under the direction of Councillors Spier and Goldenhair, and that the construction of said granaries be completed by the third week of October.
      In Favour: 5 [Aldred, Calomel, Goldenhair, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 0
      Result: CARRIED
      
   2. Item: Returning Neglected Farmland to Service
      Motion Tabled: That the abandoned or neglected farmland be recquisitioned by Myrken Wood's government, and granted to tenants who are willing to pledge at least one-eighth of the land's output to government food stockpiles for the next five years (preference given to those who pledge a greater fraction); that funds be set aside to provide appropriate compensation to the previous owners for this land, subject to their making a claim for such (with appropriate proof of ownership) within one calendar year.
      In Favour: 5 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 0
      Result: CARRIED
4. Item: The Relief Effort for Foggy Bottom
   Motion Tabled: That a fund be established from both government grant and public donations to continue efforts to aid the townsfolk of Foggy Bottom in the aftermath of the Ashfiend's attack.
   In Favour: 5 [Aldred, Calomel, Goldenhair, Spier, Treadwell]
   Against: 0
   Abstained: 0
   Result: CARRIED
   
5. Measures Taken to Protect Myrken's Citizenry
   
   1. Item: The Brotherhood of Janeiro
      Motion Tabled: That the Brotherhood of Janeiro continue to defend and oversee reinforcement of the Ringwall; that the Brotherhood of Janeiro be instructed to bear appropriate insignia denoting them as serving in the defence of Myrken Wood.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   2. Item: The Myrken Constabulary
      Motion Tabled: That resources be made available to establish a secondary Constabulary headquarters at Foggy Bottom in order to safeguard the security of the citizenry and to maintain the Governor's Peace; that members of the Constabulary be instructed to bear appropriate insignia denoting them as serving in the defence of Myrken Wood.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   3. Item: Reviving the Militia
      Motion Tabled: That resources be made available to improve the standards of training and equipment available to the Myrken Militia; that members of the Militia be instructed to bear appropriate insignia denoting them as serving in the defence of Myrken Wood.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   4. Item: The State of the Ringwall
      Motion Tabled: That resources be made available to improve the defence offered by the Ringwall in places at risk of assault by Thessilanean forces.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
6. Threats Facing Myrken Wood
   
   1. Item: The Ashfiend
      Motion Tabled: That a further meeting be held in the near future in order to properly appraise the Judiciary Council of the threat posed by the Ashfiend, and to discuss any ways of dealing with this threat.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   2. Item: The Order of the All
      Motion Tabled: That the Myrkentown Constabulary continue observation of known or suspected members of the cult.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   3. Item: The Violet Dawn
      Motion Tabled: That control of the illegally-constructed Orphanage be removed from the Violet Dawn and assumed by the Government of Myrken Wood, who will appoint a board of suitably-experienced individuals to oversee the management of that institution and safeguard the physical and spiritual welfare of the children therein; that an official investigation take place into the Violet Dawn's financial dealings, particularly with regard to the rumour of members of the organisation transferring full ownership of their property to the organisation itself and any improprieties that may arise therefrom.
      In Favour: 4 [Aldred, Calomel, Spier, Treadwell]
      Against: 0
      Abstained: 1 [Goldenhair]
      Result: CARRIED
      
   4. Item: Other Threats to the Territory
      Motion Tabled: No action necessary.
7. Item: Progress Report on the Rebuilding of the Meetinghouse
   Motion Tabled: That the architect Sylvius Duquesne be invited to consult on the project; that the beginning of construction be brought forward to such that the excavation of the building's foundations and potentially the construction of first-floor stonework be started before the onset of Winter, with the raising of the framework to wait until Spring.
   In Favour: 5 [Aldred, Calomel, Goldenhair, Spier, Treadwell]
   Against: 0
   Abstained: 0
   Result: CARRIED
   
8. Item: Administrative and Financial Matters
   Motion Tabled: No action necessary.
   
9. Any Other Business
   Motion Tabled: No action necessary.

[Malaroth]

1) Yes

2) Yes on both items

3a) Yes

3b) Abstain

4) Yes

5a) No

5b-d) Yes

6) Yes on all items

7) Abstain

[Jirai]

1) Yes

2) Yes on both items

3a) Yes

3b) Yes

4) Yes

5a) Yes

5b) Yes

5c) Yes

5d) Yes

6) Yes to all

[Kylerryth]

1. Abstained.

2a. In Favor.
2b. In Favor.

3a. In Favor.
3b. In Favor.

4. In Favor.

5a. In Favor.
5b. In Favor.
5c. In Favor.
5d. In Favor.

6a. In Favor.
6b. In Favor.
6c. In Favor.

7. In Favor.

[Treadwell]

1. Yes
2a. Yes
2b. Yes
3a. Yes
3b. Yes
4. Yes
5a. Yes
5b. Yes
5c. Yes
5d. Yes
6a. Yes
6b. Yes
6c. Yes
7. Yes

(Or, in perfect Treadwell speak, a series of pleasantly enunciated "Mmph"s.)