Fantasy Hunter's Moon: The Sin & Sentence [IC] [CLOSED]

[Infab]

"Come again?"

Cassiel paused briefly, looking to Theodore and the others. "...She's Valeria's ancestor, and I believe the reason Sazak went after Valeria in the first place. She defeated Sazak during the Age of Darkness, and banished him back to the Abyss before completing the ritual that sealed Taranoch away." he explained, before turning back to Rebecca and finishing unstrapping her curiass. "She's referred to as 'The Third Templar', one of five that completed Taranoch's banishment and binding...She's also a Living Saint, as Archangel Raziel blessed the five in order for them to survive fighting the icons off as well as complete the ritual."

Rosanna looked from Cassiel to Rebecca, then back to Theodore and Camille. "...Well, that makes a helluva lot of sense. Sazak's got a grudge against her whole damn bloodline because Becca here kicked his ass." she said, motioning to the lady knight. Rebecca glanced up afterwards. "...I...apparently succumbed to my wounds after the ritual was complete...So...I am a revived Saint now, I believe." she said, faintly and painfully chuckling.

Velin shrugged, looking to Royland. "I don't know...Its something we'll have to figure out after the Summit. With the Templars coming back, we may have an even better chance at handling whatever Taranoch may be planning." she responded. "For now, we have world issues to focus on."

 

[Dmaster]

Camille brushes her bangs from her face as she looks at Rebecca, the revelation of her being Valeria's ancestor answering several questions yet raising new ones. Then came what Velin said, something about a Taranoch who she was not familiar with at all. Things would only get more complex as time wore on, the displaced beings from the time shift on top of everything else did no favors.

The huntress shot a glare at Adona, ever more unappreciative that he was nothing but a spectator to all of this. "But why come here, now? Surely there are better places to get your wounds healed than here of all locations." Camille shook her head. "Though I suppose that hardly matters at this point."

"I will say however - you should have killed Sazak rather than let him live." she said bitterly.

 

[Infab]

"I will say however - you should have killed Sazak rather than let him live."

Rebecca nodded slowly. "Believe me, fair lady, I regret deeply that I did not slay the wretched creature." she replied, her voice bearing just as bitter of a tone. "I felt at the time...that he was not even worth killing. He was a pitiful, miserable excuse for a demon...cowering in fear as I held my blade to his gullet..." She then looked to Camille, wincing a bit as Cassiel began to mend the injuries and wounds he could find with his holy magics. "...I cast him aside, and spoke to him on what he truly was...and I hurt him more than any other being ever had. And then...I exorcised him. Banishing him back to the depths of the black Abyss."

Rebecca's torso was covered in bruises, rough cuts, and stab wounds. It was clear that she had take some damage to her ribs...apparently her Saintly powers were nullifying the pain a bit and allowing her to continue breathing normally. How she was even able to walk could be chalked up to that as well. Miraculously, her armor was undamaged...but perhaps that was a case of time fluctuation? Otherwise, it would also bear the marks of battle.

 

[K0mori]

"Indeed we are, Marie-Claire. Indeed we are." he said, setting aside his glass after finishing another gulp of bourbon. "I was wondering as to what all you had in mind regarding how we handle this situation. Personally, I think we can proceed with the summit as planned. But we try and cut Aleister and Nocturne out of things a bit. He's clearly insane to think the entire continent will cave to his demands." He glanced over towards the front entrance, taking note of a woman in plate armor talking to his soldiers and some inquisitors, but chose to ignore it and focus on his conversation with the Escarian Queen.

"Oui," Marie-Claire replied, tiredly. "There are other things to discuss than the criminal in our midst, but I would like to share my intent with you regarding that matter first. I was quite serious when I said I wish to restore as much of the previous relationship my kingdom holds with the accursed sorts as I can, and I believe it is quite obvious that even if I am forced to place one of their kind in charge of a new government with, ahem, controlled interests... it would be quite preferable to seeing a rogue state headed by that bloodthirsty charlatan take root in our own doorstep."

The Queen paused a moment and looked over her notes, frowning as she looked upon a photograph of one of the vampiric counts in exile. "I'm told that this man is an exceptional gentleman," she said as she showed the King the photo. "Monsieur Juste certainly recommended him, and if I can meet him and sway his mind, then I shall grant him some special title that will make him equal to the duke of his region. I mean to find some compromise which will allow him to rule over his own people without disrupting the law throughout the rest of the land.

"I will establish a national guild for the hunters in Escaria, and I have sent an aide to recruit Madame Giguere to lead it. I'm sure he's informing the President of her preference as we speak. And I will follow through with my promise to hold those accountable who contributed to the bloodshed, rather than simply permitting others to carry it out. I don't care if I have to bring the guillotine down on the heads of royal blood. I will show my people that we will not tolerate it any further. And if the vampires cannot recognize this new chapter in Escarian history, then perhaps they deserve what comes to them," she explained irritably.

 

[Breadman]

"Perhaps she can be help with that as well." Ryloand spoke, now less cautious "The people's faith in the Church is currently rocked and uncertain due to the events. A return of a saint might restore that faith. Fill their hearts with hope, maybe even among the abnormals you're welcoming now into the flock?" His hand was still resting on his sword, but the grip of the hilt was gone "If she would accept it, I think the reformed Order would benefit from her among our ranks."

Theodore was quiet, he listened to what Cassiele had to say. He knew none of this, much to his surprise. Nothing about the templars, about their battle with Tanaroch or what they had done to stop him. The only reason he knew of Sazak was from select tomes, but they didn't mention his involvement with this. Just how many other secrets did the Church have hidden even from it's archivists? Ludwig might be in need of further interrogation.

"Hindsight is always clear I suppose." he finally said something "I suppose it makes sense that he would single you out as your greatest enemy purely because you insulted and humiliated him."

 

[Infab]

"There in lies the problem, Ser Royland. Rebecca is not a known Saint." said Velin, rubbing her chin. "Her existance and identity was hidden by the Church, along with the other four Templars, after Raziel's urging. Lest someone go digging for descendants and try to exact revenge...like Sazak did." She glanced across the room at where Rebecca and the others were. "There are no records in Eternis of their existence. They are kept alive only by word of mouth...and only a select few know. For the sake of their family, if they had any. When most say Taranoch was banished into the Abyss by five individuals, they think of us Gods nowadays...Just how Raziel had devised the plan. Let tales and legends be spun overtime to distort the truth...Raziel's a smart one, you know, but he couldn't forsee Sazak's extraordinary ability to hold a grudge."

Rebecca nodded to Theodore. "...And he targeted my descendant, because he could not combat me...Vile." she said, her voice going soft for a moment. She waited for a few moments, before smiling and looking back to the others. "...Doth thou know my descendant?...What is she like? Doth she resemble me?" she asked, looking between the three of them. Her smile was the purest that any of them had ever seen.

---
​

"A guild for the hunters of Escaria? Excellent. I imagine the Huntress in there will be most pleased. Allowing a vampiric duke to rule with proper oversight is good, and punishing those responsible for allowing these crimes to continue is good as well. But...let us take a step farther." said Newmont. He raised a finger. "...We could grant the supernaturals of our nations full rights. Make them sovereign citizens, able to do everything humans could. Also bound by the same laws, though a set of laws could be put in place later to deal with their supernatural states. Enforce strict laws to punish those that would harass and commit hate crimes against the supernatural, and the same towards humans. Only members of the Hunter's Guilds or select agencies would be allowed to arrest supernatural individuals....We pull the strings we need to make our nations actually appealing to those in Nocturne. Draw them away from under Aleister's rule."

 

[Dmaster]

Camille crossed her arms and twisted her lips at the question, certainly having her disagreements with Valeria in the past. Yet the inquiry was an incredibly difficult mission, and the inquisitor was trying her best to keep things together. There were times when Camille didn't quite help with that matter, and Valeria did make a sacrifice that she likely would not have been able to.

"She is... noble. Valeria stuck to her morals and sought for unity among us where it may not have even existed. That said she put the mission and matters before her self, and the only reason we could kill Ashwood was through a deal she felt forced to make with Sazak." Her hands tighten around her arms as she looks distant for a few moments. "We have not seen her since that day, Sazak taking her as another of his... vessels. I am sorry to say I have not thought of her much since then. It feels like decades ago, honestly."

"And hm... I do see a resemblance, oui."

 

[K0mori]

The Escarian Queen nodded as King Newmont spoke, a bitter smile creeping across her lips. "Oui, that is the idea, monsieur... we should not endeavor to remove Nocturne from existence, but rather, to remove as many reasons for its existence as possible, and then watch it wilt. Unfortunately, it will be complicated to raise the status of les gens de la nuit, as you say, in Escaria, as I will need to work with the Council to see it be done. I do not wish to over-promise, but I will discuss the idea openly as ask the legislature to deliver a solution by, let's say, the end of this month. I imagine it will not be so straightforward as to grant them equal rights; if I am to attract vampires away from that cursed island, then I should see to it that vampires accused of wrongdoing are tried within courts presided over by their kind. Monsieur Comtois, the likely figurehead, will help us establish a reformed court system... or whoever we can get to take the role," she proposed.

 

[Infab]

Newmont nodded. "I can likely issue a royal decree on these matters in Atraca...I still have several of those in the hole for a rainy day or when the House of Lords decides to have contest for biggest ego. The laws will be drawn up, I'll issue the decree, and the laws will be forced through without issue." he replied. Atraca and Escaria had slightly different ways of doing things, but both usually lead to the same results. "I'll begin the proceedings to sort through the Atracan lords and ladies whom assisted in these purges once the summit is over. What they do will determine if they get imprisonment for the rest of their days, or death."

He then looked down, drawing out his pocketwatch and checking the time. "Ah...recess is almost over. Shall we head back in?" he said, pocketing the watch and looking back up to Marie-Claire.

------
​

The smile on Rebecca's face faded slowly. "...I am glad to know that she is a noble, moral woman...I sincerely hope that the group Lady Velin dispatched into the Abyss return safely with her...and that she is of sound mind and body. I...truly fear what Sazak might have put her through." she said, her voice soft. Soon Cassiel spoke up. "Your wounds have been mended, Dame Witlocke. Let me put your armor back on, and I'll draw a seat over to allow you to sit with Adona."

Rebecca smiled again. "Thank you. It is only right that I sit alongside my patron god...as I ceased following Lady Velin long ago." she stated, as she began to strap her armor back on her. She looked to Rosanna, Theodore, and Camille again. "I am quite curious as to how this summit will conclude. Lady Velin's zealotry has finally caught up with her...Something I never wished to be a part of. It beith why I joined the Vigilant Order, you see. When the Church first spawned, the Vigilant Order was founded on the things that Lady Velin's Order lacked...true honor, mercy, and punishing those that dared to harm others. Actual criminals and villains of the supernatural world...not simple vampires, werewolves, and other creatures just trying to survive...But I see that since my passing, even my beloved Vigilant Order hath been compromised by the same zealotry."

She sighed at the thought. "I hope things will be set right." she whispered, before glancing over to Velin and Royland.

 

[Emperor Sagan]

Aleister shook his head sadly. "I only asked for fairness. They... they call me a terrorist. Say I should step down because I dared do what was necessary to save my people. And yet what of their own actions? They say I must account for wrongs while neglecting to account for their own. I shouldn't be surprised. If justice truly reigned here, every monarch would be dead after every war they championed into existence on this continent."

He went quiet again, watching the arrival of a new figure, a woman in delightfully archaic armor, far older than even the styles the people of Nocturne wore. This knight seemed to ease his pain, somewhat, as she carried on to the other side of the room towards Velin. Then the pain returned, filling him with bitterness. Of course. Another hound returned to the master.

"I know none of them would ever step down. They'd throw every person in their kingdom beneath their boots before they would even consider it, and the answer would still be no. I've offered repayment for the innocents caught in the periphery of our struggle. We've already a number of vampires and werewolves on lists to be detained, or transferred out of Nocturne to their respective homelands for imprisonment for the crimes they have committed."

"We've never had any friends here, you know. Their smiles and promises are hollow, and they pat each other on the back for keeping up their collective charade and mask of indignation, as if they weren't already planning the next meat grinder they could throw their people into so that their blood can shine their crowns," he sighed. "We are the victims here, and they treat us like we hold all of the guilt. What more, my lady, what more can I possibly offer? My life? They want the lives of everyone at this table, and if we were gone, they'd descend upon the unprotected supernaturals and finish the job. I remember what you told me, all that time ago. About your... potential longevity. Velin can't hold the threat of violence over their heads forever. Your words of compassion will fall on deaf ears eventually. Adona... I know not what that man even does, truth be told. And Gyasis, has he gone already? I just want peace. For all. If not definitively, then a powerful, lasting peace, a world where the heartless find it so intolerable to wage their endless wars that they can only string along a handful of poor fools rather than entire countries."

"Nocturne has pinned me to the pulpit," he whispered, seeming to grow more weary by the second. "They need me. I have an obligation to them. I cannot step away until there is victory, until they are safe. And even then, who is to say they will always be safe? I can't... I can't let them go, they've been harmed too much already, abused so thoroughly that I cannot stand the thought of abandoning them. We've existed, together, for a mere few years. If you plucked away every monarch, their households, and their parliaments - there would be someone left, at some place, to pick up the pieces and follow their ancient bloodlines and treaties. To say, legally, that they know who will lead next. We do not. For mercy's sake, look at our table, my Lady. I'm a priest who writes plays and paints. My dearest Silvatori, another priest, and he plays the violin. Elfriede is human. She resigned her naval commission from Atraca when her captain escaped charges of severe misconduct. As for Lady Ruko, she is a kind woman, but there is a scar upon her heart that has not healed. The burden she carries with her most be unspeakable. And all the rest... we just happened to be the ones everyone was looking to when the slaughter began. We had this secret society, a brotherhood. Just artists. Just people one could count on for lodging, for company, for protection, if necessary. And then we had to figure out how to move... all those souls... away from the continent. We never did get all of them away, you know. Gods... how many died because we couldn't fit any more on the few ships we had...."

Aleister went quiet again. He covered his eyes briefly with his hand, the glove coming away damp, partially smeared with some of his eyeliner. He didn't seem to notice. "I just... I cannot...."

 

[Breadman]

"Forgive my ignorance my lady. I never questioned the orders you gave regarding the templars. In hindsight it makes sense as you lay it out." Royland once again looked towards Rebecca "Even so, she created the order that would later serve you. If she would return to faithfully serve her duties, her experience would greatly benefit us. Would give those like Inquisitor Sara a much needed reinvigoration of morale. If there's one thing I learned from this long existence, is that seeing someone share your tireless resolve helps the spirit."

"I can only echo what Camile says about your descendant. I will add that some of those who went to retrieve her are friends of ours, or people we know very well and were fit for the job."

"As far as the archives go, zealotry has been part of the order for a very long time." Theodore spoke up now that they were entering history he knew about "I can only hypothesize that the radicalization began very shortly after your passing, when the other corruption began to take hold, I cannot say for certain, but that will change soon enough. The new wave of inquisitors would require some guidance, but I hope that they return the order to it's roots of justice."

 

[ANIMAL MOTHER]

Strangely, in a move that made Kregore frown, Langa slowly places a hand on Aleister’s shoulder.

“Hey, Archbishop, you’re only wrong about one thing; that you have no friends here. Us of the Ridge share the anger and frustration you have for these ‘leaders’, even if we have ah... less than noble reasons. But still, it’s as I said, they're unfortunately the only ones who have all the power... for now.” He leans in a little closer to Aleister while whispering to him. “Between you and I, once you have them all gathered in your hands like grapes, then you finally show them what you really think of them.”

After saying that, he leans back to give him some space. “But for now, it is as I said, there’s no other way forward except through them. Look on the more positive side, however. Everyone agrees the purges were awful, and even if they slander you as a terrorist, they still acknowledge to some degree that you are still the victim here. There is a saying we have in the Ridge: ‘An open blade is an easy target’. Meaning, don’t let anyone know what you’re capable of. Don’t let anyone know you’re ready to strike until it’s the time to do so.”

A slight nod is given towards Kregore whom doesn’t look too happy.

“You taught me that. Remember?”

 

[Infab]

Undite cut Langa a look beneath her visor like veil, before looking back to Aleister. "...We came here to this summit to end the bloodshed...Not stave it off for a later time, nor to strike when everyone isn't looking." She sighed, and continued after a moment. "Adona does what only he is able to do...If fate judges it so, he abides by fate's will. Gyasis...I miss him. He isn't gone, from what I know, but...I fear his powers are to the point where if he used them to assist us...he could perish on the spot." Her voice wavered, filled with sadness, as she spoke of her former lover. "Aleister...my longevity doesn't matter as long as I leave behind something to aspire to. People that want to so the right thing....people that care for one another, regardless as to what they are. Those that seek peace, and solutions that lead to obtaining it...."

She looked over to the woman in the armor that had walked in, her eyes widening slightly as she recognized her and her saintly aura. But she did not comment on it. Instead, she simply looked back to Aleister. "Not everyone here is corrupt and evil, Aleister...Remember that...Rely on faith, not your hatred." she said softly, before standing. She moved her chair back to where it originally was, before moving around the table. Back around to her seat. She sat down, sighing and resting her elbows on the table before her. Hands on her forehead as she looked down. Adona glanced over, setting his glass down. "...Dominique...Things will be alright." he said. She didn't look to him, but replied with a simple "...I hope so, Waya."

Members of the delegation began to slowly return to the room, still talking to one another as the time began to wind down to the end of the recess. A chair was brought over to sit near Adona, and Rebecca took her seat there while a guard nearby held her longsword. She looked about the table, silently nodding to each of those that looked at her. She also looked across the table towards Adona, smiling warmly and giving him a wave of her hand as a greeting. If he couldn't tell there was something saintly about her before, he certainly could now with the aura she was projecting.

There was a commotion above, and suddenly a pair of glasses hit the table before Langa and shattered. Adona smilled, looking to Kregore and pointing towards the table where the broken glasses now sat.

 

[ANIMAL MOTHER]

The glasses explode on the table, causing Langa to flinch in surprise while Kregore looks on towards Adona unamused. He’s already been completely caught by his wonders after he managed to stop time itself, but this is simply rubbing it in, and he’s not someone who enjoys being gloated to. So, he picks up the broken glasses and throws them right back at the person above who dropped them. Then, an idea comes to his head. His smokes. Adona made a prediction that the last one would be cheaply made due to poor Escarian working conditions. If only he knew what he really has...

He pulls out the carton again, flips open the lid, and takes out a thin rolled up wad of something.

“JOU CARE FOR A ‘IT?” he mocks.

 

[Infab]

Adona shook his head. "Nah. I've got something better back home." he responded, before pouring himself another glass of whiskey.

The delegates all reentered the room, taking their seats. And soon enough, everything was set to resume. Velin stood from her seat, looking around at the others, before speaking once more. "Everyone is present? Good. We will now resume the summit." she stated, before looking to Undite as she sat. Undite then spoke. "Ladies and Gentlemen of Northern Adonia, I would like to introduce to you another guest of ours. The female night sitting next to Adona." she stated, motioning over to Rebecca. "This is Dame Rebecca Witlocke. Knight Commander, Third Templar of the Vigilant Order, and one of the first Saints of the Church. Resurrected by the time fluctuations occurring at the moment."

Rebecca stood and bowed to the delegations. "An honor and privilege to be in thine presence, Lords and Ladies of Adonia." she stated, before sitting back down. Undite then continued. "If you are unfamiliar with the concept of a Templar of the Vigilant Order...There have only ever been five. If you recall the story of how Taranoch and his legions were banished and bound to the Abyss, you will know that there were five individuals that took part in that act. Those five individuals...were the five Templars. Each Saints, as blessed by the Archangel Raziel. They are the First of the Vigilant Order, the first Saints of the Church, and the reason why the Age of Darkness ended."

She paused for a moment, then nodded. "Now that whom she is has been explained, we shall continue with the summit." she said, before looking to see if any delegates cared to speak up.

 

[EdwardDewey98]

"If you wouldn't mind, Lady Undite, I would like to have a word." asked the Chancellor Maxime Hämmerli of Schwyz. A tall and gaunt man with a gentle gaze, dressed in a fine and well kept suit. "Thank you. First and foremost, I would like to thank everyone for participating in this important summit." he said while solemnly looking at the other members of the summit. "For some of us, the fourth summit of our lives. For others, the first one." After clearing his throat with a sip of water, the Chancellor turned his attention of Aleister, giving him a rather sincere smile.

"Archbishop Aleister Germain, I would like to thank you for actually participating in this event. A man in your position and in your current predicament would have thought twice about coming into one would call 'enemy territory'. Let me begin by making my perspective very clear... Chancellor Oliver Weitzmann of Daristein, Duke Steven Van Der Bossche of Trechtstaat, Doge Dario Trevisani of Stuisil and myself, are part of the Bergig League. A trade organization that eventually developed into a defensive alliance due to the fact that we share several policies both internationally and internally." He said while exchanging looks with the aforementioned members of the Alpine League before turning his attention back on Aleister.

"You might be wondering why such information is important to begin with. Well... throughout the years, we have taken a moderate approach to vampirism and the other curses that mankind can be afflicted to. This also applies to creatures one would believe existed only in folklore. We are secular nations, interested in the benefit of our people above all else. Some of us in the league have taken some harsh decisions when dealing with the Vampires and the Werewolves. Displacements... creation of settlements away from the public eye... things that could be considered unacceptable by any moral standards."

"But ultimately, the extermination of vampires, werewolves, and other creatures would be deemed completely unacceptable. It's a crime against the morals of our people and our nations. And this is why I need you, Archbishop Germain, to understand that the crimes committed by Velin's Order and the Church were beyond the control of any government. Feudal, democratic, Iqta, or tribal. None of us had any control over the decisions made by the Goddess Velin and the Church."

The Chancellor looked over his shoulder to look at Velin. He bore no expression on his face, but one could assume he looked at her with disappointment. "Believe me when I say that I understand the way you feel, Germain, for I have witnessed the atrocities committed by the Inquisition. Cities that are part of the Schwyz commonwealth have lost many of its citizens, a large portion of them were not even vampires or werewolves but normal humans... Husbands, wives, sons, and daughters, trying to defend a family member who was out in the night at the wrong time... What could justify such violence and hatred? Nothing, that is the only answer to such a question. But we had to allow the Inquisition to act, and that might fill you with an anger that you might believe is justifiable. Because inaction in the face of cruelty is also compliance. That is something I do not disagree with... but you do not understand the full picture, Archbishop."

The chancellor suddenly shifted his attention to Undite, not giving Alistair the time to speak yet. "I would like the representative of the Phillomon Detective Agency to speak up. I understand that she's a local, and was part of the group that actively resisted the Inquisition's efforts carried out since the awakening of Lady Velin. If she wants to speak, of course."

Jessica Phillomon looked rather surprised, as she had expected to not speak in such important and historical event, and decided to ultimately keep to herself despite the fact various of Jakob's allies were present in the room at the moment. But the Chancellor of Schwyz wanted her to speak and she understood perfectly why. "I...Thank you... Chancellor..." she said while trying to act as professional as possible. But it was hard for her, not being used to such situations. And looking at Aleister, one of the men that Jakob considered a true friend only made it harder for her. "I... I wo... For Gods sake... Fuck it! Aleister... You knew my brother. He adored you and I'm sure he still does even after what you've done. And I'm sure that ultimately, even if he had to arrest you, he would forgive you for it... The things done to vampires and werewolves are horrifying, and that's why Red Gorge evaded it like the plague. We would never kill our own again like in the old days, no matter how many of the Inquisition came knocking at our doors. We would never give up... That could have changed when Velin herself came into this town. But it didn't." The swampfolk woman looked at Velin with utter disdain, pointing at her with contempt.

"She came to our town with the intention of killing our people just because they were different...And when we refused and amassed in the plaza to fight her off...she still charged at us, blazing with fury, lighting flowing forth as she was ready to destroy every single of us... Man, woman, elder, and child... even my brothers daughter, Al! No matter if they were human, vampires, werewolves, or dwarves... she wanted our death. And that did not happen because Lady Undite was there to prevent it." She lowered her accusatory finger, taking a deep breath to calm herself before looking back at Alistair with a soft, but saddened look. "She was ready to destroy an entire town, Aleister... just because WE defied her will... Imagine if a whole nation did it. When the rulers here say that millions would have died, they aren't exaggerating one bit. Billions would have died, human or supernatural... And she's a God, Aleister... How could any nation hope to destroy her? Please... open your eyes. Nocturne does not deserve to be destroyed because you want those who weren't able to do anything to step down."

Without anything else to say, Jessica simply relaxed on her seat, looking down and away from the vampire priest. The Chancellor looked at her for a moment before turning his attention back to Aleister. "...This is the account of a witness who was about to experience what hundred of other villages and cities who refused to accept the will of the Goddess faced. If were not for Lady Undite... none of us would be here in Red Gorge. Because it would be a smoldering ruin, and a tomb to over five thousand people. Can you see now what we were up against?"

The Chancellor at one point looked at Queen Jannika Wästflod of Nivarden and Sultan Bayar of Eshax. "Her will stretched far beyond the nations that follow the faith. Countries with other religions had to accept the will of the Goddess despite the fact they did not worship her... This was beyond the control of any of us... And for those who joined Velin's now defunct organization, they will face repercussions for their actions, Alistair, we can promise you that..." After a long pause where the Chancellor looked rather unsure on what to say next, he spoke again. "...And this is why I want to suggest you, Archbishop Germain... to step down as your role as religious leader of Nocturne and to pay compensation to Atraca for the material and human loses... I ALSO propose that Nocturne needs to remain untouched, and it can become the haven of non-human civilization... That is my proposal for you and every member of this summit to consider, but ultimately, Archbishop... the decision is yours. And I would suggest you to think wisely. Not only for your sake, but the sake of your people."

 

[Infab]

The trio of gods quietly listened, as the chancellor from the small nation of Schwyz spoke followed by the representative of the local detective agency. Rebecca also seemed to pay close attention as well, watching the chancellor and Jessica as they spoke their peace. She looked to Velin after a few moments, noticing the look on her former goddess' face. She seemed to be hurt with each word directly at her...yet refused to respond to each statement. Velin...attempted to purge all the supernaturals from Adonia. Gods...what all had happened while she was gone? Thankfully Undite had stopped her. Still, the Church and the Order was now stained with the blood of innocents...which would never be removed for as long as the Church and Order continued to exist.

Rebecca soon decided to speak herself. "Lady Undite, might I address the delegations? Simply to offer my comments on matters." she said, looking to Undite. Undite looked to her for a moment, hesitating, before nodding. Rebecca then stood and looked to the various delegates around the room. "Lords and Ladies...I hail from an era far less...advanced than the current period. Bear with me." She glanced to Velin, before speaking again. "The Church and the Vigilant Order...from the era whenst I came...were far different creatures than the beasts that they are now. When the Order was formed, we had strict rules. Tenets that we knights followed to the letter. We protected the innocent. We fought evil wherever it was found, by sword, magic, or prayer. We fought with honor, and for the good of all. Human and Supernatural...The Order that called itself Velin's Order are what we left behind. The zealots. The corrupt. The despicable and cowardly. We wanted to be different, to not follow the harsh, cruel ways of Lady Velin...I was part of that Order, and was one of the first of her followers to openly denounce her. I left, and, as I stated, helped to found the Vigilant Order of the new Divine Church."

She paused, then breathed a sigh. "From...what I have heard...the Church and Order suffered corruption and zealotry sometime after my death. We were meant to be better than that. To serve the gods and masses faithfully, without zealotry and hate. To protect, and to banish evil. Not to slaughter innocent supernaturals and those that would help them. As...As one of the founders of the Vigilant Order, as a Knight Commander, as a Templar...and as a humble servant to the world and its inhabitants...I vow to thee, right here and now, that the Vigilant Order will return to its original mission and tenants. I will help to hunt those of the old Order, and bring them to true justice."

She paused once more, looking to the delegation. "The Vigilant Order will be restored to its former glory, this I swear to thee." she said with a nod, before sitting back down in her seat. Undite soon spoke afterwards. "The Church welcomes Dame Witlocke's help in correcting the Vigilant Order, and helping us mend the Church." she stated, before looking to the Chancellor from Schwyz. "The corrupt, rogue members of Lady Velin's former order will be arrested on sight, and will be punished for their crimes, as I've stated. As for Lady Velin herself, I've already stated that she is stepping down from her role over the Church. She will be leaving afterwards...for good. You and the rest of the world will never see or hear of her again...and she will submit to her punishment for her acts."

Velin was totally silent, staring down at the table as Undite spoke of her. And she would remain so, an empty expression on her face as Undite stated her intentions after the Summit. Undite then moved on to the situation with Nocturne. "Now, the Chancellor from Schwyz has spoken on Nocturne and Archbishop Germain's status. Do you all share his opinion, or do you have different thoughts or statements of your own?"

 

[ANIMAL MOTHER]

"Now, the Chancellor from Schwyz has spoken on Nocturne and Archbishop Germain's status. Do you all share his opinion, or do you have different thoughts or statements of your own?"

"I DO NOT SHARE THIS OPINION."

Kregore leans back and puts his feet on the table; pointing them right towards Newmont.

"THIS DEMAND FOR DIE ARCHBISHOP TO STEP DOWN... WHY IS THIS SILLY TING BEING MADE? IS IT BECAUSE JOU TINK HE IS MAD? IS IT BECAUSE HE HAS SHOWN HE HAS NO FEAR OF WHAT ANY OF YOU MIGHT DO? IS IT BECAUSE HE IS TRYING TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF HIS PEOPLE, BY MAKING IT SO NO ONE CAN SEND AN OFFENSIVE AGAINST HIM WHEN DEY ARE STILL BEING KILLED? THIS BOMBING AT DEVONPORT OR WHATEVER IT IS CALLED, YES INNOCENTS DIED AN' IT IS A SHAME, BUT MANY MORE OF HIS PEOPLE DIED WORSE. IF JOU TRULY UNDERSTOOD WHAT HAD BEEN DONE TO HUNDREDS OF TOUSANDS, AN' WHATEVER THIS ANGRY 'VELIN' OR WHOEVER IS COULD HAVE CRUSHED THEM IN A SECOND, MAYBE THEN JOU WOULD KNOW THIS SO-CALLED 'TERRORIST ATTACK' WAS JUS' TO SPARE SOME TIME FROM DEM BEING, OH... I DO NOT KNOW... BEING BURIED ALIVE IN A MASS GRAVE? WHEN JOU HAVE YOUR BACK AGAINST THE SPIKES WHILE MANY OTHERS ARE POINTED AT JOU, THEN PERHAPS JOU WOULD UNDERSTAND WHY HE DID WHAT HE HAD TO. IF JOU KNEW PROPER 'ASYMMETRICAL WARFARE' AS IT IS CALLED BY JOUR ARMIES, JOU WOULD UNDERSTAND THIS WAS NECESSARY. SO I SAY HE STAYS. HE IS NOT MAD. HE IS ACTING ACCORDINGLY IN THE FACE OF A GENOCIDE AGAINST HIS KIND OF WHICH NO ONE WILL STAND UP FOR HIM TO BE HIS FRIEND. THERE IS NO NEED FOR HIM TO LEAVE HIS POSITION."

He lifts an accusatory finger in the air; not necessarily pointing it anyone. "AN' I SAY THIS TOO. HE DID NOT ASK FOR EVERYONE TO STEP DOWN. HE ONLY SAY WHATEVER JOU WISH OF HIM, JOU MUST ALSO WISH ON JOURSELF. IS THIS SUCH AN UNREASONABLE TING, WHEN HE HAS ALREADY AGREED TO REBUILD AN' REPAY? UNLESS, JOU MAAIFOEDIES WISH TO FINISH DAT WOMAN'S JOB?" he says, now pointing his finger at Velin while also looking at Newmont.

Having said his piece, as well as violating the ears of everyone around with his horrible Atracan, he simply reclines back in anticipation to see how bad of a storm he's just made.

 

[Dmaster]

Once the summit had started again Camille found her way to her seat, crossing her arms as she leaned back in her chair and listened to the others speak. Witlock's ancestor seemed rather adamant on fixing the Church yet again, but the huntress had little faith that the reforms would be lasting. After all Witlocke had already done it once and the organization deteriorated into the shambling mess it was now. Before that were the opinions of both Jessica and the Chancellor on just what needed to be done with Aleister, prompting her to scoff and shake her head to herself.

The brutish fellow with the incredibly grating accent rose to his feet to deliver some rather awful perspective, and Camille decided to be silent no longer. Once again she rose from her seat, hands behind her back as she looked about the room.

"I don't know if it is the language barrier or your ignorance, monsieur, but none of us are calling for the extermination of Nocturne. We are calling for its leadership to be brought to justice." she begins with a glare at Kregore. "I've no idea who you are, but reparations do not prevent the rampant fanaticism that is the core of Nocturne's governing. It was not, and never will be necessary to haphazardly bomb a port or massacre a whole theater of people due to the circumstances of vampires at the time."

"Nocturne had every opportunity to lay low and simply allow its refugees to use it as a safe haven, and it is true that such a haven would need adequate defenses." Camille acknowledged with a nod. "Yet the Archbishop and no doubt his inner circle saw it fit to coldly attack others in ways they could not expect or prevent. Far too focused on the grand spectacle of horrific acts of terrorism, they continue to make flimsy attempts to justify the acts as necessary. In truth they only served to endanger their people further by invoking the wrath of the Atracan crown and the world over."

"That being said, I do not agree with the sentiment that Aleister simply needs to step down from his position. He and those responsible for the attacks need to be forcibly removed and brought to justice for their crimes." the huntress concludes, slightly sneering at him across the table. "And considering that I think it foolish to imprison an immortal being, coupled with the fact that he is too insane to even recognize the wrong he is done - they need to be executed."

Saying nothing else, Camille took her seat yet again.

 

[Emperor Sagan]

Aleister listened quietly to the parties speak, Undite's earlier words still echoing to him. Rely on faith, not your hatred. He had done so all his life. And now he was sat here, not as the man he once was, in a time that was trying to move past one of the greatest atrocities of the modern era. As he listened to their words, his frustration was gradually replaced with a deeper sense of melancholy, knowing that his own cries for justice were being ignored as the leaders of the continent rallied their wagons to protect themselves, using their arguments as shields against all criticism, and having the audacity to say he and his lot were the only ones who should face any consequences despite being victims of the very circumstances which brought them here. He found himself somewhat startled that Kregore, who he felt a strange sense of curious aversion to, spoke up in a rather poignant defense of his side. If a criminal forgotten on some dingy island could grasp the situation, then how could the monarchs and lords not? Then the melancholy came harder - because they were hypocrites who wished not to apply fairness in any respect.

"Miss Phillomon speaks of a stirring tale," he said, somber, "of a people who, laudably, took a stand for what was right regardless of what may happen. To my ears, to the contrary of what some of you say, I hear of a town that had the sense of justice and duty to do exactly what needed to be done when no other nation could muster the same courage. If Lady Undite would step in to save a few thousand souls, would she not also step in to prevent the loss of millions, as it is suggested would die if Velin turned her rage on the countries of this nation, if not the very world? Chancellor Hammerli, we have already committed to paying for damage conducted from the crossfire. But you ask me to step down on account of actions we had no power over, being forced into self-defense by a raging goddess, when so many of your peers also claim they had no power over their actions by duress. If this is truly the belief of the assembly, then it is disproportional to ask Nocturne for changes in leadership when such things do not occur elsewhere. As my associate from Caraborough stated, I did not demand all leaders to unequivocally step down. I merely stated that the justice that happens here must be fair and proportional. The fact remains that a few thousand are regrettably dead by Nocturne's hand during military maneuvers - something we, again, shall offer repayment for - yet hundreds of thousand are dead, crippled, and without home or possession by the inaction, or duress actions, of the continent's nations."

Aleister glanced around to Camille after she spoke up, staring at her blankly for a few moments, before shaking his head and looking away. "You truly are wicked."

He spoke quietly among his delegation, a few members kneeling around his chair and whispering back and forth. A few documents were pointed at and Aleister nodded, before turning back again to address the assembly.

"As a gesture of good faith... I will step aside for a Pontifex to be elected to replace the chief governing duties of the current Archbishop, a title which shall remain in reduced capacity among a council of bishops already in the process of being formalized."

 

[Infab]

Newmont glared at Kregore after the man spoke. Asymmetrical warfare? No war had been declared. Atraca had tried to impede what Velin was doing with the Church and Order, but apparently to Nocturne, Atraca was doing her bidding regardless. As if they had fully cooperated with her. "Atraca will fufill its duties, as it always has. I will issue a number of royal decrees as soon as the Summit concludes. Supernaturals will share the same rights as Humans, until more defined ones can be written up and put into effect to cover their supernatural abilities and natures. Hunting Guilds will be funded by the crown in order to police supernaturals that commit crimes. Reparations will be made to those that have lost loved ones or have suffered during the purges. Those that took part in the purges, be they of any class, will be arrested and punished for their wrongdoings. Either through imprisonment or execution." he soon stated once Aleister was finished.

 

[ANIMAL MOTHER]

"I've no idea who you are, but reparations do not prevent the rampant fanaticism that is the core of Nocturne's governing. It was not, and never will be necessary to haphazardly bomb a port or massacre a whole theater of people due to the circumstances of vampires at the time."

And she loses Kregore the moment those words leave her mouth.

A look of absolute disinterest covers what little there is showing of Kregore's face. The more she spoke, the more indifferent he looks as he inspects his fingernails, looks over to Langa and Adona repeatedly, and checks to see if he has any more cigarettes left. Eventually he looks back to Camille once she's done ranting. He blinks a few times before he speaks again.

"TEEF, WERE JOU LISTENING TO A SINGLE WORD HE SAYS? HE WANTS TO END THE VIOLENCE. IF THIS IS 'FANATICAL'," he raises his hands in a shrug. "IT IS A NEW CONCEPT TO ME."

 

[Infab]

Queen Allemand of Escaria spoke up next. "Escaria will follow a similar path as that of Atraca. I shall speak with the Council, and discuss several ideas which potentially see fruition by the end of the month. I will seek to restructure the judicial system in Escaria to allow for courts of les gens de la nuit to decide on the fate of criminal supernaturals, while the issue of rights for the supernatural is discussed thoroughly. A national hunter's guild will also be established, and I have named Madame Giguere as its head. Those that took part in the purges, regardless of their status, will be prosecuted and punished for their acts." She looked about at the others, before glancing to Aleister. "...I will also move to establish a county for the supernatural within Escaria, overseen by their one of their own whom I will grant a title equivalent to Duke."

Newmont spoke afterwards. "Atraca supports this act, and will officially recognize this area of Escaria as a lawful sovereign territory once it is established."

 

[ANIMAL MOTHER]

"Atraca supports this act, and will officially recognize this area of Escaria as a lawful sovereign territory once it is established."

So instead of ripping Aleister away from Nocturne for his "crimes", it looks like now they're going to make their own Nocturne in the mainland. The pettiness of such a thing, to make a free land for supernaturals just out of spite towards Alesiter causes both Ridge guests to fall silent. This is low, even for them. Both of them already hate the ruling and upper class of Adonia, but seeing them up close and listening to them thrash Aleister in this pointless summit has finally given them reason beyond the superficial animosity born at the bottom rungs of society. Langa trips over his tongue as he tries to say something in response to this, but he cannot put it into words how he feels. Eventually, he gives up with a loud grunt as his head falls into his hands in disbelief. While it's good supernaturals can now live safely in the mainland, it's the fact that this feels so strongly as a strike towards the Archbishop that shocks him. Defeated, he looks over at his boss.

"[Fuck me, that was fast...]"

Meanwhile, Kregore simply looks back at him. "[LANGA, I THINK WE'VE SEEN ENOUGH. RIGO'S RIGHT, THIS IS BELOW US. THESE PEOPLE ARE CHILDISH AND PATHETIC, AND I AM NOT SITTING THROUGH THIS BULLSHIT ANYMORE.]" Even if he truly didn't care about the purges, even if all he's said was for show just to give Nocturne a good impression, he still can't help but feel a little sorry for Aleister that he's being put through all this. At least in the Ridge, they'd shoot you beforehand... most of the time. He leans over to the Archbishop to whisper something to him.

"BETWEEN JOU AN' I, THIS IS A LOST CAUSE SINSE DEY WON'T LISSEN. AN' WE MIGHT BE GOWIN' NOW, THERE'S NOFF' ELSE EITHER OF US CAN DO. BUT IF THE WORST PASSES, JOU KNOW WERE TO FIND US."

 

[Infab]

Oddly, the Tsar of Tsavania, whom had been quiet most of the beginning of the Summit, spoke up. He sat forward as he spoke. "Tsavania...will not be recognizing Nocturne. Tsavania will also not cease hostilities." said the gruff Tsavanian man, his heavy accent surging forth. "Vampires have been a blight upon our northern lands, as have most other creatures. Werebeasts are Tsavania's only friend, as they help us put down these creatures." He looks towards the Atracan and Escaria delegations. "Tsavania will not make deals with these creatures. These deals will only harm efforts to protect our people from harm. And we will not allow our foes to the south to make decisions for us on the matter of our security."