Log of the High Council Meeting on 1/11/16

[Lord DaKaren]

Log of the 476th Session of the High Council of Britannia.

DaKaren: Welcome to the 476th session of the High Council of Britannia.
DaKaren: I hope that everyone had a pleasant holiday break.
Mr E: *nods*
DaKaren: It is always nice to see the kingdom able to relax this time of year.
DaKaren: Though, as always, we should remain vigilant and refrain from expecting our enemies to remain at bay.
DaKaren: Grand Marshal Polynikes, would you please brief the Council on military matters in the Kingdom?
Polynikes of Yew: Thankyou Chancellor, members of the High Council.
Polynikes of Yew: Things have been relatively peaceful as you mentioned.
Polynikes of Yew: For that we can be thankful.
DaKaren: *nods*
Polynikes of Yew: I did want to present the decision from the Military Tribunal regarding holding a Courts Martial
John: *visibly nervous*
Mr E: *perks an eye*
Polynikes of Yew: regarding the unfortunate incident in Skara Brae between a BAF patrol and members
Polynikes of Yew: of the Jhelom Defense Force.
Tanda: *looks up at John*
Polynikes of Yew: In this incident a BAF patrol pursing individuals that had attacked the patrol skirmished
Polynikes of Yew: with the detachment of Jhelom Defense Force troops guarding Jhelom's Consulate in Skara Brae.
Polynikes of Yew: In this incident a member of the JDF was killed and another was wounded.
Polynikes of Yew: Charges were made by Governor Jameison regarding this incident.
Polynikes of Yew: Minister Malag Aste and myself heard testimony from those involved and have come to a decision
Polynikes of Yew: as to whether a Courts Martial is called for.
Polynikes of Yew: After reviewing the testimony and evidence it is our decision that the BAF troops under the
Polynikes of Yew: command of John were within their rights to defend themselves when attacked.
Polynikes of Yew: Furthermore, the Jhelom Defense Force was guilty of assault upon BAF troops and
Polynikes of Yew: obstruction of justice.
Thom Jameison: *scowls*
Thom Jameison: Outrageous
Mr E: *looks disappointed*
Guntur Kivlov: Suspicious that high ranking members of the BAF came to the decision?
Polynikes of Yew: I do believe that we need to clarify what roles that personal troops like those of Governor
Polynikes of Yew: Jameison have in the realm.
Polynikes of Yew: Governor Jameison have you at any time applied to the Council for the Jhelom Defense Force to
Polynikes of Yew: be part of the BAF?
Thom Jameison: No my troops are not under your control.
Polynikes of Yew: *nods*
Polynikes of Yew: Since they are not part of the Britannian Armed Forces they have no authority outside your city
Polynikes of Yew: Furthermore, their authority is superseded by BAF troops when you are in your city.
Polynikes of Yew: Your actions interfering with a BAF patrol made your troops vigilantes not law keepers.
Polynikes of Yew: If any city wants their troops to have authority outside their city they must request membership
Polynikes of Yew: in the BAF and be subject to its chain of command.
Polynikes of Yew: That is all I have for the Council at this time.
John: *half breathing, still nervous*
DaKaren: *nods*
DaKaren: Quite a bit to take in.
DaKaren: We thank you for your diligence, Grand Marshal.
Polynikes of Yew: Yes, talk amongst yourselves.
Polynikes of Yew: *grins*
DaKaren: Unless someone has questions for him?
Mr E: Has an offer of the Jhelom Forces ever been made to join the BAF?
Polynikes of Yew: Not to my knowledge.
Polynikes of Yew: Neither was a request made.
Mr E: *nods*
Polynikes of Yew: We would be glad to have any qualified group
Polynikes of Yew: join in the defense of the realm.
DaKaren: Indeed.
Thom Jameison: So my troops would be under your command?
Polynikes of Yew: Only when on duty as BAF.
Polynikes of Yew: They are your troops when not involved. with the BAF.
Thom Jameison: *frowns and nods*
Polynikes of Yew: any other questions?
Malag aste: Though everyone whether they are a citizen or a member of the Defense force or a member of the Armed Forces is subject to following the laws...
Malag aste: of the Kingdom.
Polynikes of Yew: *nods*
Polynikes of Yew: I would say that any troops outside their own city have no authority as far
DaKaren: We should look into codifying the process so it is clear to all.
Polynikes of Yew: as this council is concerned unless they are BAF.
Polynikes of Yew: *nods*
Polynikes of Yew: I agree Chancellor to prevent bloodshed
DaKaren: Anyone else on this topic?
Thom Jameison: *mutters* cover-up
Guntur Kivlov: *ahem*
Guntur Kivlov: I do.
DaKaren: Councilor Kivlov?
Guntur Kivlov: Who was leading this "BAF assault" in question?
Polynikes of Yew: John under my orders.
Guntur Kivlov: *nods* and who was being pursued?
Polynikes of Yew: Members of Rodrik's mercenaries.
Guntur Kivlov: The same mercenaries the BAF has been attempting to chase for years now?
Polynikes of Yew: *nods*
Guntur Kivlov: I find it odd they would choose to flee into one of the safest cities in the Britannia...
Polynikes of Yew: Yes *smirks* strange isn't it.
Guntur Kivlov: Perhaps...
Guntur Kivlov: Are the records of this "situation" available to members to the council?
Malag aste: More questionable is that they were operating in such a supposedly safe city in the first place that had so many "guards".
Polynikes of Yew: The hearing was held with the majority of the Council present.
Polynikes of Yew: We can get a copy for those who missed it.
Guntur Kivlov: *nods with a frown*
Mr E: I apologize. Who was part of your council in finding no court martial of John was needed?
Polynikes of Yew: Minister Malag Aste and myself as the two highest ranking BAF officers.
Tanda: *raises hand*
Guntur Kivlov: Were any JDF members present at this hearing?
Polynikes of Yew: Yes, Governor Jameison and several others were present.
Mr E: So no one outside of BAF had a vote or decision in the fate of a BAF member?
Tanda: I recused myself, and did not attend but the Council has no say so in the Military Court
Polynikes of Yew: No it is a military matter.
Polynikes of Yew: I will point out that I serve at the pleasure of this council.
Polynikes of Yew: You don’t like the job I am doing.
Polynikes of Yew: Fire me.
Tanda: *glares at Polynikes*
Mr E: Tis an option
Malag aste: *nods to Poly*
Mr E: *writes notes*
Guntur Kivlov: *frowns*
Polynikes of Yew: *smiles*
Guntur Kivlov: I am simply asking questions Grand Marshall.
DaKaren: *sighs quietly*
Polynikes of Yew: *nods*
Mr E: I have no other questions. Thank you for your hard work Polynikes
DaKaren: We shall move on.
DaKaren: The time has come to vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia.
DaKaren: To recap, this amendment allows Councilors who are also seated on the Royal Council to forgo giving a report to the High Council on days when both councils have a scheduled session.
DaKaren: Theoretically, this would make sessions like tonight much, much shorter...
DaKaren: Before I conduct a vote, are there any questions on the amendment?
Tanda: *raises hand*
DaKaren: Councilor Knighthawke?
Tanda: My only concern is there are those on this body who do NOT sit on that Council
Tanda: who will not hear the previous report
DaKaren: *nods*
Mr E: And sometimes we may have reports that perhaps the King does not need to concern himself with
Mr E: That the council would.
DaKaren: That is indeed a concern, however, the minutes of the Royal Council are also transcribed.
DaKaren: *nods*
DaKaren: Councilors may still give a report should they wish, or pass.
Tanda: *nods*
Tanda: Thank you Chancellor
DaKaren: Any other questions?
Tanda: none
DaKaren: Nay? Very well then. We shall vote.
DaKaren: Councilor PabII, how does the city of Yew vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
pabII: yew votes yes
DaKaren: Councilor Kivlov, how does Newcastle Township vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Guntur Kivlov: Newcastle Votes AYE to the amendment.
DaKaren: Councilor Warner, how does the city of Britain vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Dot Warner: Britain votes aye.
DaKaren: Councilor Kittie, how does the city of Moonglow vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Kittie: *stops playing for a moment to look up, feather in mouth and nods, happily returning to her playing*
DaKaren: Please verbally state 'aye' or 'nay' for the record...
Kittie: *blinks, quickly taking the feather out of her mouth, blushing even through thick fur* .. Aye.. *slinks in her seat*
DaKaren: Councilor Knighthawke, how does the city of Minoc vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Tanda: Minoc votes Aye
DaKaren: Councilor Arminger, how does the city of Trinsic vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Norman Arminger: Aye
DaKaren: Councilor Jameison, how does the city of Jhelom vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Thom Jameison: Aye
DaKaren: Councilor E, how does the city of New Magincia vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Mr E: Magincia votes Aye to the amendment.
DaKaren: Minister Hla-ate, how do you vote on the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia?
Malag aste: The Ministry of Virtue votes Aye.
DaKaren: The vote is unanimous, the amendment to Article XIX, Section B of the Royal Constitution of the Kingdom of Britannia passes and shall be adopted.
DaKaren: Now that we have that out of the way, it is in effect for Councilors during this session.
Councilor PabII, does the City of Yew have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
pabII: pass
DaKaren: Were Governor Yew-wood the sitting Councilor, then she could pass.
pabII: no news in the city of you
DaKaren: *nods*
DaKaren: Councilor Kivlov, does the Township of Newcastle have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Guntur Kivlov: First, I would like to extend Newcastle’s heartfelt condolences
Guntur Kivlov: to the brave Jhelom militiaman who lost his life recently.
Thom Jameison: *nods*
Guntur Kivlov: It is very unfortunate that one of the few assaults to happen was due to involvement of
Guntur Kivlov: Britannia’s "peace keepers"
Malag aste: *glares at Kivlov slightly*
Guntur Kivlov: If there is anything We can do from out humble township, do not hesitate to ask.
Nevahs Blazefire: *Stares at Kivlov*
Guntur Kivlov: I will be looking into this matter personally...
pabII: *glares at Kivlov*
pabII: maybe you should have been there
Guntur Kivlov: Perhaps.
Guntur Kivlov: But I am sure the report will be fair and unbiased...
Guntur Kivlov: As far as the city of Newcastle... we are safe and sound for now.
DaKaren: *nods slowly*
Guntur Kivlov: That is all I have at this time Chancellor.
DaKaren: That is good to hear.
DaKaren: Thank you, Councilor.
DaKaren: Councilor Knighthawke, does the city of Minoc have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Tanda: Minoc chooses to pass
DaKaren: *nods*
DaKaren: Councilor Warner, does the City of Britain have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Dot Warner: *sighs*
Dot Warner: Aye...
Dot Warner: According to documents in Cove, a rather large number of sentenced criminals were sent to the prison in Yew.
Dot Warner: According to the prison's warden however, none of the prisoners actually made it there.
Dot Warner: So there are convicted criminals...somewhere.
Dot Warner: *frowns*
Dot Warner: Crimes ranging from theft, to assault and even to murder.
Tanda: *mumbles Jhelom*
Dot Warner: According to shipping manifests, these prisoners were traveling on vessels operated by the DHTC...
Dot Warner: Which may only compound the problem.
Dot Warner: Hopefully we will be able to track them down...
Dot Warner: That is all I have.
DaKaren: Thank you, Councilor.
DaKaren: Councilor Jameison, does the city of Jhelom have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Thom Jameison: Yes, I made the general report for the King.
Thom Jameison: I do have a serious complaint. After the incident in Skara Bare I decided to close the Jhelom
Thom Jameison: consulate in Skara Brae.
Mr E: *Mutters under his breath*
Mr E: oh it's closed alright
Thom Jameison: We had most of the troops return to Jhelom.
DaKaren: That was probably wise.
Thom Jameison: Someone seems to have attacked the Consulate again, burned it and two of my men are missing.
DaKaren: *sighs*
Thom Jameison: I demand that the Council help find who is responsible and prosecute them.
Thom Jameison: There seems to be a conspiracy against Jhelom.
pabII: sounds like something Rodrik would do
Dot Warner: *mumbles under her breath "It's called 'reality'"*
Thom Jameison: *looks around Council*
Thom Jameison: Does anyone have information as to this incident?
Guntur Kivlov: I second Thom’s request
pabII: we have all been attacked at one time of another so join the club
Bentley: I have information about the old Jhelom Consulate
DaKaren: Just to be clear, it would be the B.A.F. who would investigate this...
Guntur Kivlov: It would be a kind gesture for the BAF to help clean up their mess.
Thom Jameison: Oh?
Thom Jameison: *looks to Bentley*
Bentley: Mr E was visiting Farrah in Skara Brae discussing some events to hold
Bentley: To try and get the peoples spirits up
Bentley: While walking around the city and surveying many sites they noticed
Bentley: some people kicking children and stealing from vendors
Tanda: *tilts head*
Bentley: Mr E attempted to send message to BAF through some magical means that is beyond me
Bentley: However, waiting did not seem to be an option. They chased them
Bentley: While giving chase they noticed that they wore the crest of Rodrik
Bentley: Rodrik’s men took refuge in the Jhelom consulate. Forces from Magincia and Skara surrounded
Bentley: the consulate in order to allow time for BAF to react. While securing the area we believe that
Dot Warner: *raises a brow*
Bentley: one of the men inside accidentally knocked a lamp over
Bentley: because they had barricaded themselves in we saw no one leave
Bentley: all the people who had taken refuge in the building appeared to have died
Tanda: *quirks a brow*
Thom Jameison: If those are my missing men your city will pay
Bentley: Magincia has offered assistance. They have sent naval support to try and prevent the return
Bentley: of any unwanted troops
Bentley: thinking that we will pay for what Rodrik’s men have done.
Bentley: and the ruins are to be rebuilt as a Magincia Consulate
Dot Warner: I find it interesting that once again, Rodrik's men see the Jhelom consulate as a safe haven...
pabII: aye
Thom Jameison: We have only your word that Rodrik's men were there.
Tanda: Why would they stay inside a burning building rather than
Dot Warner: *rolls her eyes*
Tanda: seek escape?
Thom Jameison: We must look for bodies. to determine who was in there.
Mr E: I was there
Tanda: is arrest so bad that death was preferable?
Kittie: *claws deeply digging into her seat as she remains biting her tongue*
Mr E: As Bentley stated they barricaded the doors perhaps thinking we would seek entry
Thom Jameison: The story does not make sense. Seems more likely a fire was used to cover murder.
pabII: maybe some of your men work for Rodrik also unbeknown to you though
Dot Warner: You see conspiracies everywhere...
Mr E: While we only stood around outside seeking to keep them from escaping while BAF would have time
Tanda: Unless they used magic to exit unseen
Polynikes of Yew: and you of course notified the BAF?
Mr E: The building was built poorly. Went up in a flash.
Mr E: *shrug*
Tanda: Perhaps it was full of flammable materials
Tanda: additionally
Mr E: I sent work with one of our men to seek BAF support immediately
Polynikes of Yew: You might check the local taverns he seems to be lost
Polynikes of Yew: Another point please make sure your troops do not interfere with any BAF units I send to
Polynikes of Yew: investigate.
Thom Jameison: I expect a full investigation of this.
Thom Jameison: Nothing more to be gained by making false accusations.
DaKaren: I am sure the B.A.F. will be happy to investigate.
pabII: who is making false accusations
DaKaren: Let us move on.
Thom Jameison: Speculation without proof.
DaKaren: Councilor E, does the city of New Magincia have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Mr E: Just that I have activated GTO to keep guard while our troops support Skara.
Mr E: I will look into getting them to be a part of BAF in the right channels
Mr E: if they can be found outside of the council
DaKaren: *nods*
DaKaren: Thank you, Councilor.
DaKaren: Councilor Arminger, does the city of Trinsic have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Norman Arminger: not at this time.
DaKaren: Councilor Kittie, does the city of Moonglow have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Kittie: *shakes her head*
Kittie: I do not. *smiles*
Kittie: *continues playing with the feather under the table in her lap*
DaKaren: Minister Hla-ate, do you have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Malag aste: No I have nothing at this time...
DaKaren: *nods*
Malag aste: *looks at Kivlov*
DaKaren: Chief Justicar Blazefire, does the High Court have anything to bring before the Council this eve?
Guntur Kivlov: *sighs*
Nevahs Blazefire: Yes, Chancellor. There will be a Trial for Syephen Maxwell Next Monday evening at 8 pm by the Central Skies.
Nevahs Blazefire: I am in the process of arranging defense and prosecution.
Nevahs Blazefire: That is all I have for now.
DaKaren: Thank you, Chief Justicar.
DaKaren: Do any of the citizenry have anything to bring before the High Council this eve?
John: *raises hand*
DaKaren: Lord Knighthawke?
pabII: *yawns*
Guntur Kivlov: *eyes John sympathetically*
John: First of all, if I understood the events of earlier in the meeting,
John: the Jhelom Defense Force is now in the BAF.
John: If this is true I welcome their members. Know that, for what it is worth,
Polynikes of Yew: not yet
John: I long have respected the warriors of Jhelom, and my father
Polynikes of Yew: they have not applied
John: Apologies then Grand Marshal, then please change my remarks to know
John: that I welcome their application.
John: And, what remains unchanged in that event,
John: is my respect for the warriors of Jhelom.
John: For what it is worth, my father once represented Jhelom on a body not unlike this one,
John: on the shard of the Gem of Mondain he was from originally.
John: Secondly......It is disconcerting to see......
John: *sighs, trails off, shakes head, and steps back*
DaKaren: *tilts head*
DaKaren: You wished to say more?
John: No,
John: Indeed, ideally, I wished for the second point I originally had intended to make
John: not to have been an issue at all.
DaKaren: *tilts head again*
DaKaren: I'm not sure how to respond to that.
Tanda: *looks from John to the Chancellor*
John: *resumes guarding posture
DaKaren: But...as you wish.
DaKaren: Anyone else?
DaKaren: Nay?
DaKaren: Very well then...
DaKaren: I hereby adjourn the 476th session of the High Council of Britannia.
DaKaren: Go with the Virtues.