A warm wind blew through the small beach resort in Minstrel, the smell of the fresh air was abundant, however the only thing that was not in abundance was the people. One might think that this resort would be overcrowded and filled with happy people wishing to relax and enjoy their time, but today was not a good day for those inside the resort to relax. Luna was on the balcony, in her formal wear staring out into the water, shimmering under the sunlight, so inviting, so relaxing, almost calling to her. Amelia was coming out onto the balcony as she was finishing adjusting her kimono. "This may be one of the toughest jobs either of us ever take on, and we have seen a lot. The odd thing is this job doesn't require any fighting." Luna gently picked up a cup of water on the table beside her, drinking it slowly as she was trying to mentally prepare herself for the danger ahead. She took a large sip and put the glass back down. "This is a wizard's job mostly because someone qualified tried this fifty years ago, a non magical negotiator. He ended up with shrapnel in every vertebrae in his spine, a liver that was reduced to Swiss Cheese, lost an eye, and his wife was never satisfied in the bedroom ever again, and not because of the spinal injury mind you. Most thought that if these talks were to happen again, best that someone who can defend themselves at the very least be in charge of negotiating or arbitration."
Amelia would be shocked, if she didn't know all the details surrounding the history of this job beforehand. However even she had to admit that this job seemed to be more dangerous then what it really is. "I wasn't privy to the details of the Negotiations, you didn't tell me yet and you were only given full disclosure two days ago. At first it was too quiet, then everyone arrived yesterday and it was somehow too noisy for a night. But really? Was the negotiator's injuries that severe?" Luna nodded, she picked up one of the binders she had prepared, and flipped through the background reports. She felt bad for the poor man. However she was wondering how guilds that specialize in forging and marketing seem to have such high combat skills. "Frank Silver, renowned Negotiator, once settled a hundred disputes in fifty days. He was known as the God's Tongue, ironic as that was the only thing not injured. He managed to survive the negotiations fifty years ago thanks to an on site healer with around the clock care, however his missing parts weren't taken with him and by the time someone managed to find them, they had already been too severely damaged to be salvaged. However he was unable to walk about two years later. He retired soon after as the stress of the injuries became too much."
Luna closed the binder, before picking up the other three and handed them to Amelia. Luna poured herself another glass of water as Amelia started to quickly read each binder one by one. "Hard to believe we're talking about two merchants guilds." Luna's gaze drifted from the pitched as she lifted the glass, she looked back over at Amelia. "At least you do look lovely though." Amelia smirked a bit before letting out a soft chuckle. "Yeah, beautiful enough but not to fit the role of assistant to but not outshining the beautiful the great arbitrator Lunaris Mira- oh wait, LuShirain. Good call using your fairy formal name, might help prove that there is no bias on either side. Considering paranoia is what got things rioting the first place this should be a better start."
Luna nodded, she moved her gaze as she looked around the resort She saw a lot of the green clad Musketeers posted as guards around the resort, standing post and on patrol. Only Luna, Amelia, the Musketeers, the staff, and various representatives of the four nations governments were allowed to roam the premises freely. Setting up this event took a lot of planning on part of both the Fiore and Minstrel governments working together. All parties had to pass through Checkpoints set up by a small detachment of Rune Knights, confiscating weapons and attaching magic suppression devices as well as ensuring the parties were briefed on the rules and terms. Everything was scheduled so that neither party would see the other, and the Musketeers took over security for the resort itself while the Rune Knights stuck to camping on the outer perimeter.
Luna stepped back into the room and looked towards a clock, seeing that the time was growing near, she looked in the mirror one last time to insure that she was ready to go out and face all the parties involved. There was a knock on the door, one that was expected. "It's time." Came the voice from the other side of the door. Luna looked to Amelia, nodding as they made eye contact silently, before walking towards the door. Amelia had finished reading the history of the case. She merely brought the books and binders just for reference to others so no one would find her archive holograms altered in any way.
As Amelia got close to Luna, Luna could easily see the concern and fear in the eyes of the gynoid, Luna lightly touched underneath Amelia's chin. "Look, we dealt with worse before. I am sure we can handle one time as judge and assistant." Amelia was greatly concerned, while both of them faced more powerful threats, this one was different. "It isn't, we faced beings more powerful, but this time we're facing two sides that have something worse then power, blind desperation that exists in most since they could first breathe, that desperation drives them to go to any lengths. That alone makes them more dangerous, fifty years ago they were still able to smuggle weapons in and cause a mass murder. I am concerned, because I can't predict them." A pause settled in, but Luna knew from now until the night she could not afford to crack. She merely spoke in a comforting tone to her robotic companion. "Amelia, look, I sorta, planned for this. I made sure that the Minstrels know to place the potted plants in a arrangement to give me the ultimate flexibility, plus I can heal myself on the fly. With Lightning body you can strike down anyone quickly."
Amelia sighed, and with a glance she let Luna know without words that her support was still hers. Luna turned around and opened the door, and was greeted by a tall Musketeer. He was a man about six feet and three inches tall, muscular, wearing a Musketeer uniform, a rapier at his side and a musket on his back. He had green eyes, neck length brown hair tied back, and a goatee beard. This was Captain Timothy Johnson, leader of the Musketeer Regiment Minstrel sent for the security detachment. Taken by her beauty, Captain Johnson lowered down onto a knee. Luna was flattered by the gesture as she offered her hand to him, he gently moved her hand before giving it a gentle and brief kiss. "Ah, madame LuShirain, you're beauty is more exquisite every time my eyes are blessed with the chance to gaze."
Amelia was behind Luna and to the side, while rarely jealous, her feelings were creating a tension in the room. She gave a slight growl under her breath, Captain Johnson noticed the Gynoid, and could tell his flattery might have been a mistake. However after years of his work, he learned to make a quick save in times like this. "Ah, Miss Thorn, a beauty to behold in your own right." Sensing that while barely satisfied, Amelia wasn't going to say anything outwardly at this point so Captain Johnson rose back up and took a step back allowing Luna and Amelia to step out into the hallway before they started to walk down the hall. Luna raised her arm slightly as the Captain slowly took her arm as they walked through the halls. "Dear me, I got an escort by the Captain of the 20th Regiment, what could ever give me this honor?"
The Captain let out a slight chuckle. "I have my best Musketeers overseeing that both sides get in there without conflict. This is merely a show to let the governing officials see how good we cooperate, which I must say I am enjoying this set up. I anticipated a clash, yet things turned out magnificent." Luna nodded, she agreed with how things ended up going so smoothly. While she herself was not associated with the Rune Knights, she admired their ability to act quickly. Although, she did not spend much time, roughly two hours after the day long voyage on the Rune Knight Ship, the final representative of the governing parties before all of them where admitted into the resort. "I concur, however from my time spent with the Rune Knights in transport, apparently they were overdue for an outpost base and camp training exercise. Not to mention their coordination is magnificent, so to simultaneously strip search two sides is easy. The Musketeers have more experience with the architecture of the land, it just made more sense for you to take over the internal security. Since the Magic Council appointed me as Adjudicator, I have no say in security and trust you and your men."
The Captain nodded, grateful for the faith shown in him by the Nature Fairy. "While we have the time on the route, would you mind if I ask a few questions to satisfy my curiosity?" Her curiosity was piqued, as she figured best to get on a good term with the man and letting unanswered questions remain seemed to be a bad idea as she did not want things to fester. She nodded. "Sure, feel free to ask away." The Captain composed himself as he wanted to be careful with what he said. While he was a master on the combat field with his Wind Rapier and Pyro Musket, he knew that angering Luna, especially when Amelia was near, was a very bad idea. "Madame LuShirain, why did the Magic Council appoint you to be the Adjudicator for this trial?" Luna figured this question was going to be asked at some point, but she did not want to repeat things all day. "I am going to explain that at the start of the session, I'd rather avoid repeating myself. I hope you understand. Also at the very least call me Luna, if not Lunaris. LuShirain is mostly used during formal situations or my mother cursing me out."
The Captain nodded, understanding quite well the annoyance of repeating things. He had to hear about the same issues from both his Lieutenants when he assigned each to lead a group keeping the parties in line. "I understand, to be honest I don't think convincing either side is going to be done without a lot of repetition. However, Madame Lunaris, if it isn't much to ask, for the gala after, do you have anyone special to attend with?"
Luna was most flattered by the man's charm while Amelia was still envious of Luna receiving the majority of the attention of his sweet talking. Luna merely coyly smiled back at him, figuring that playing a little hard to get would keep things interesting. While she would not mind having the Captain as an escort, the night of the gala was still long away. "Perhaps, we shall see how things play out." The Captain let out a slight chuckle before the group soon arrived at a double door that had a guard posted outside, the Captain nodded to the man and the door was opened and the three individuals walked inside.
The room involved was the interim court room, which would normally serve as the main dining gallery and dance floor. The room itself has two levels, the ground floor and the balcony levels. In the center was the large dance floor and at one end of the room was a stage where hired performers can play, and was connected to the stage were two stairwells on opposite sides allowing access between the two levels. On and underneath the balcony were the dining areas for tables. The room was made from wood with exquisite art decorating the hall.
It was decided that this room would serve as the grounds for mediation between the two factions and was modified accordingly. Two long tables were placed opposing each other 25 feet apart. A smaller table as placed near the stage, while a medium sized one was placed upon the stage with a larger chair behind it, the contents of the table were simply a gavel and block. The balcony railing was modified with a special barrier to protect the visiting dignitaries from any harm. All of them were watching sitting at tables along the side of the balcony facing the stage.
There were four Musketeers and a limited number of hotel staff in the area, all for the four individuals representing the involved nations present. Luna knew them by reputation alone. From Bosco was Arnold Bloodsilver, district master of one of the leading Merchant Guild boards. He was a gruff elderly man dressed in a four piece dark wool and silver lined suit with a elegant black cane adorned with gold patterns. He was never really happy that things got so bad that he had to be here again, as he was present fifty years ago at the last negotiations. From Fiore was a beautiful and elegant woman in her mid thirties but still had the complexion of mid twenties. She had flowing red hair, covering her right eye that was scarred and blinded, she was dressed in a emerald dress. Her amethyst eye was gazing down at the court room bellow, curious as to how this would play out. The woman was known as Nala Ironclaw, a Fioran noblewoman from part of a southern part of Fiore. She was sent to observe the whole matter. From Ca-Elum was a short elderly woman by the name of Irene Enean that represented the governing trade commission of the nation. She kept displaying a bitter attitude towards the whole need to travel to observe this on behalf of their respective organization. From Minstrel, there was one of the Musketeers higher ranked officers, Colonel Samuel Eliat, a rather strong man with a prominent white mustache, drinking a glass of whiskey.
As the three wizards walked in, the eyes of the dignitaries soon traced over towards them. "Greetings, I am LuShirain, and this is my acting secretary Amelia Thorn." Nala's eye traced over towards Nature fairy, Luna shuddered slightly at the intimidation. "Yes, the Nature Fairy, former leader of Aurora, I read your file. You're a common pawn of the Magic Council from what some friends say, kudos putting away the Seamoors." Nala said as she examined Luna. Samuel chuckled. "So, she's the one that finally nailed those sons of bitches. That happened in Minstrel they'd be gone before the first scam." The colonel added, Nala ignored the Minstrel officer. "Naturally I did my homework before allowing my consent. Lunaris daughter of Shirain, born Lunaris Mira, human/fairy hybrid that ended up converting to maternal lineage, a Vishda Fae. Frankly it feels like someone went out of there way to try and find the most impartial individual possible." The Noblewoman said as Luna was starting to feel slightly uncomfortable.
She had a feeling she was being sized up and no one interfered with the scene until Captain Johnson coughed twice as he stepped forward, looking over the balcony rail to look down. "Alright, both parties are ready, we are ready for Justice LuShirain." He said, Luna walked over towards the end, nervous as she looked over towards the room bellow where she started to gaze and look at both sides, starting with the further side.
From Ca-Elum was the smithing and merchant guild known as Obsidian Fang, a guild that's origins span back over two hundred years. It was a renowned guild for producing quality weapons among having jewel crafters of immense skill, at their peak they were even asked by many foreign nobles to craft exquisite necklaces, rings, earrings, and other forms of jewelry, many of which became family heirlooms. The guild was the first to have a wide spread of influence across Minstrel and Fiore.
From the guild were four individuals representing them. Closest to the table was the current leader, Nigel Bloodstone, the eighth leader who's family has served the guild for three generations. He was a stern elderly man, he was commonly known as the Obsidian Fortress for his high strength and endurance on the battlefield, and his unwavering stubbornness once he set his goal or mind on a subject. Luna knew that he was going to be one of the major obstacles in this arbitration, as he was raised in this long standing conflict and from what she heard, he still believes Earth-Land is flat.
Next to Nigel was his much younger wife, Sheila Bloodstone, who served as his advisor. From what was known, the marriage was purely political. Sheila was a woman in her early twenties and little was known about her, many suspect her of being a sociopath as she always remained void of emotion in the face of company. Sheila happened to be Nigel's second wife and mother of his third and fifth children. All Luna knew was that Nigel was divorced and his first wife had ended up a hostage after the divorce, tortured, and let go as soon as the divorce was proven to be real. Rumors say she was a double agent that was driven mad by the conflict and many decided not to press further into the matter.
After Sheila was Obsidian Fang's Accountant, a dwarfed man wearing sunglasses by the name of Jim Con. Jim was born with dwarfism and his eyes were sensitive to light to a point where he is blinded in the average room's lighting so he always wheres sunglasses. Minstrel and Ca-Elum authorities detained him many times, but he always remained innocent of knowing battle plans, it was always clear he knew full well what was going on but he claimed to just operate the books, not having any direct connection to the incidents. Luna heard rumors that he was sly on the tongue but always seemed to operate under the assumption of never lying, even if slightly skewed, he never told anything but the truth.
Lastly at the table was one of the guild's up and coming talents, a seventeen year old by the name of Mikhael Korna. He was a renowned talent that excelled in light weaponry, most notably one handed swords, especially rapiers. He was a eager to please type of smith, some would say much too eager at times. She heard rumors that he sometimes even went out of his way to go find prospective clients, especially well known or famous ones. While on the surface it could be seen as just as an upstart looking for fame, something about the situation seemed to bother Luna. A few years ago this boy was barely heard of but then showed up with unprecedented commitment to try and become the best and demonstrate loyalty.
Overall Luna had an appreciation for the guild's history and dedication to their craft, however their history of stubborn leaders appeared to serve as a great failing. She understood that this was a guild based on tradition and honor, but even then that honor was questionable at times looking back at the history of the conflict. As Luna passed middle part of the upper hall, her glance moved as the other guild's representatives were in her view.
From Bosco was the Ascending Phoenix crafter and merchant's guild. While the guild has old roots, it is not as old as the opposing guild. It's origins date back approximately a hundred and thirty years ago. The guild had a dedicated focus to create advanced tools and technology, many noteworthy members were avid futurists that set goals and often achieved them with a passion and dedication like no other. However this passion was often misplaced into certain projects, like the notable dressing booth that aimed to offer an alternative to normal or magic methods of getting dressed, but caused many severe injuries and lawsuits, it took seventy five years for the guild to discontinue that project. Their tenacity was something to behold, except for those trying to stand in their way. When Bosco authorities tried to get them to cease the conflict with Obsidian Fang, they merely found ways to fight outside of their eyes.
First off, representing the guild was it's current master, Iam Gon, a middle aged man who happened to be the fifth leader. The title of master was granted solely because of the guild's tradition of inheritance, as he was a direct descendant of the first master who was around when the conflict first started. Comparing the history of the guild to this man brings a shocking difference. The man seemed to be trembling nervously and few have ever heard his voice, rumors say he lost it or has taken a vow of silence. The man was sweating constantly, Luna even thought she could smell the scent of his perspiration from far away. Luna could tell from sensing his life force he was in a constant state of panic. Luna had her suspicions that the man was timing, especially when compared to his spouse. Luna had a feeling if she went through him, she might be able to get a compromise on Ascending Phoenix's part.
Next to him was his wife and second in command of the guild, Coyote Gon, a large hefty woman that carried a stare strong enough to make even the Colonel react. While her husband's voice was known by few, her voice was known by all as she was often shouting aggressively, she was very much an outspoken woman and truly represented the guild's tenacity. She had a one track mind that once set on a goal, she didn't care what she had to step on to get it, including human rights. Luna shuddered when she read the transcripts that basically described her forcing nine guild members to work with minimal breaks and bare minimum nutrition that Luna thought was still underfed, all to work on a farming tool. When faced at the courts, she was even willing to threaten the judges and spit in their face. The details surrounding the charges being dropped were based on a technicality and she only faced a fine for her disrespect in the courtroom. When dealing with the guild, it was clear that she was going to be a major obstacle. Luna suspected that she would need to be stern right out of the woodworks with her.
Next to the demoness incarnate was a woman dressed in her mechanics overalls halfway open, gloves, and work boots. Her short messy black hair reached her neck, she had hetero chromatic eyes, one blue one red. This woman was Jane Zyne, a twenty eight year old woman who's family history within the guild rivals the Gons. Zyne was presently a tenured engineer who unbeknownst to everyone except Luna, Amelia, high ranking musketeers, and the various representatives was actually discretely passing out intel to the appropriate authorities outlining Coyotes plans that are less then legal when she can. It had seemed that Jane was well aware of the current position her guild was in, and despite the fact that it could fall apart with her spending a life imprisoned, she was willing to fight for the image that she believes the guild has fallen from. Luna believed that if she went through Jane she might have a chance at resolution.
Lastly at the end of the table was a newer recruit to Ascending Phoenix, a young woman sixteen years old but a rare prodigy of the medical field, Serene Jefal. Serene Jefal, a reclusive and shy individual who had no prior history before joining Ascending Phoenix but even more odd she was considered a prodigy and within a year was given her own department as Ascending Phoenix branched out into the medical sector. Apparently there was several background checks into her by Ascending Phoenix and the Bosco governments, neither of which provided any information, but it was worth noting as soon as her work proved immensely profitable Ascending Phoenix stopped their investigation entirely. As a healing expert who suddenly appeared in many circles Luna herself sympathized with Serene, but the difference is everything about Luna can be traced and she does not withhold anything. As a result Luna remains suspicious of the woman, although wanting to give her the benefit of doubt.
Overall Luna had mixed feelings about the Ascending Phoenix guild ad they seemed to be shady and cutthroat when it came to business. However while she was deeply troubled she couldn't judge the guild as a whole as Jane did prove that not everyone is of the dominance oriented mindset. However she knew she'd need to watch the Bosco guild very seriously, especially given that Arnold Silverblood is present. From what Luna heard the Silverblood family knew the Gons for a while but grew distant, probably a mutual attempt to avoid the consequences of the guild war. Luna knew that she would she would need to watch Coyote and make sure she doesn't have any ground to spew unsubstantiated and purely alleged facts.
Eventually Luna, Amelia, and the Musketeer Captain made their way towards the the stairwell and slowly walked down the square spiraling stairs. However just as the group reached the final step Timothy slowly freed his arm and stepped forward, whispering to the Sabertooth mage and her companion. "Although a mere moment and meter may separate us, it shall feel like an eternity and mile away from your divine radiance. Fate has cast me in the role of the bailiff, I am prepared." He then looked over at Amelia. "Madame Thorn, are you prepared for our shared entrance?" Meanwhile Amelia was mentally fuming with anger and slight jealousy that all that seemed to happen was she stood around and watched as the musketeer flirted with Luna, while Amelia seemed to be treated almost as an afterthought. While her mind was artificial, her feelings were very real but with a great deal of focus she managed to keep them under control and under the surface. She took a deep breathe and passed Luna and the Musketeer Captain, wishing to get this day from hell over with already. "Yeah, lets just get this started..."
Unsure of why Amelia is aggressive, Timothy followed her out and stood by the stage, while Amelia prepared documents on Luna's desk atop the stage, before walking down to fix up her own before she hooked up the Archive magic display, with the two access points on Luna's and her own disk, while setting up a larger yellow octagon monitor above. Once Amelia was seated and taking notes, she nodded to Timothy signaling that she was ready and the proceeding events can begin. Luna took a deep breath while Timothy cleared his throat rather heavily getting the attention of both parties, silencing any whispering chatter among them. "All rise for her honor, appointed by joint effort of all concerning governing bodies and the Magic Council, Justice LuShirain!"
Soon each member of the opposing guilds, some of which (especially Coyote) begrudgingly complied with the request. Coyote had a slight scowl on her face, while Nigel was merely annoyed at the prospect of his top brass being at this meeting and delaying efficiency slightly. Luna waited a moment before slowly walking out onto the stage, taking a seat at her chair overlooking the two warring sides of a massive issue, and bellow the gaze of various officials. Once Luna was adjusted into her chair she swallowed spit dangling around in her throat before looking out. "You may be seated." Luna said as everyone in the temporary courtroom.
Immediately Coyote was the first one to speak following the silence. "Excuse me young lady but I have a-" Coyote tried to say before Luna picked up the gavel and slammed it down loud making a loud noise interrupting Coyote. "Did I give you the floor? You may not speak until then, am I understood?" She practically snapped at Coyote, letting the Ascending Phoenix matriarch know right from the get go she was not lenient to entitled behavior. "But I-" Coyote tried to interject but Luna slammed the gavel down and gave a stern look, a tense moment passed through silence, the gritting of Coyote's teeth audible to even the dignitaries and her frown equally as tense as she faced Luna's calm expression. "Withdrawn" She said after a few minutes of the tension.
Luna took a deep breath as she prepared to address both parties, especially with Coyote's recent display seeming to only reinforce the need for Luna to be stern and lay down the law. "Alright, time to begin. I am Justice LuShirain, a Nature Fae that has been given power by the Fioran, Minstrel, Ca-Elum, and Bosco governments to preside over this case. I was sought out by the Magic Council, and their decision was solidified and approved by each of your governing officials. I am in no way a member of the Magic Council, associated with the Rune Knights, Fioran government, Minstrel government, Musketeers, Bosco government, Ca-Elum Government, each of their guild systems, or even with the geographical area in which any reported or alleged incident took place. Someone went far out of their way to find me and clarify me free of any potential significant biases. I am not partial to any side and will not tolerate any accusations otherwise."
Luna let a small pause for breath before she was able to continue this line of thought while she had everyone listening. "For the duration of this matter I have been given Arbitraitor status and both your native governing officials have granted me the power to disband either of your guilds-" Coyote stood up starting to yell "That's not-" However Luna merely kept her calm tone and spoke louder. "-either of your guilds at any point and require only my confirmation. If I find either party out of line or anything else I don't like I can end it right then and there. However I acknowledge both guilds have a strong history and wish to preserve both if I can, but my patience is not eternal.
Luna looked at the Ascending Phoenix side with slight tension. "Do you, members of Ascending Phoenix acknowledge the terms, aware of all consequences of refusal to follow?" She said sternly as she could tell Coyote was itching to fight against the arbitrator but relented, elbowing her husband makming the already sweating man nervous as he stood up stuttering. "Ye- yes, your honor... We acknowledge and accept." He said almost falling over as he would return to his seat. Luna could tell that this was only going to be the beginning of a long and arduous cycle. Silently letting out a sigh she would turn back over towards the opposing guild's side. "Do you, members of Obsidian Fang, acknowledge the terms, aware of all consequences of refusal to follow?" She asked before Nigel stood up and nodded. "Justice LuShirain we are aware of the rules and ramifications, and we have no issues with you presiding." He said before Luna would respond with a nod and he would sit back down, followed by a remark from Coyote. "Kiss ass" She muttered prompting a slight glare from the pink haired arbitrator. "Mrs. Gon, I trust my earlier statement has not slipped passed your memory. Unless you are here for a quick verdict please remain silent until it is your time." Luna said in an authoritative tone making the merchant woman grumble.
Luna could feel that her patience was going to be trying, however she slowly returned her focus over towards the side of the Ca-Ellum guild as she would take a great care of caution with her approach, not offending them in any shape or form, while at the same time not allowing the opposing guild's present matriarch to have any excuse to intervene, either maliciously or with the thinnest of plausible reasoning. "Master Nigel, from what I understand it was you who had brought motion towards these talks before the ultimatum decision was reached. I have read reports for background knowledge from Minstrel and Fioran sources-" Coyote was about to interject but Jane held her mouth shut for a moment and her dual colored eyes met with Coyote's for a moment, demonstrating the pure hateful nature of their relationship as either woman rarely misses an opportunity to use any advantage she gets against the other. Jane silently shushed Coyote, this did not go unnoticed but in order to save time everyone else decided to move on as Luna continued.
"-however I would appreciate hearing the perspectives of both sides, and since you decided to make a move for peace I will pretend in part that you called for this and thus you brought the motion. Could you please describe the war from the perspective of Obsidian Fang?" Luna said as she tried to at least be respectful but also clear and concise. She did not want to give anyone any reason to suspect she wasn't being anything less then impartial. Nigel nodded and gestured to the binder of documents in front of him, comparing the two guilds prepared documentation was in fact interesting as all of Obsidian Fang's were kept neatly and organized, few documents outside of a binder or a folder, while the other side was haphazard at best.
"May I be allowed to refer to the note's of myself and my forefathers? This matter spans beyond my own lifetime and my memory is not above failing me at times." Nigel asked and Luna nodded as she had received a copy of all the notes beforehand, and due to the circumstances including a full century of history it would be unreasonable to preclude. Also Luna had a feeling Nigel already organized his thoughts and was keeping a lifeline open. "Proceed. Just not a full verbatim, I did ask for a perspective summary." She reminded and clarified verbally.
The elder man cleared his throat as he began to compose his speech. "Alright, Obsidian Fang is a guild that has been standing the test of time. Our roots go back at least seven generations, starting as a simple coalition of a disgraced noble bastard with a handoff from his family who stumbled upon a smithing prodigy suffocating under the ego of his master, ready to cast off into the world. By chance the two met, and with the last of their embers they resparked a flame as both found a passion for life once more as they started a business selling simple weapons, slowly expanding their business, taking in other strays like themselves until the day Obsidian Fang was Born-" He would begin to say before Coyote Gon would step up. "Objection, he's just prattling on about! Do your bloody-" She said looking at Luna who in turn gave her a sharp gaze back. "Overruled, I asked him to explain the source of the conflict, it goes back to the early roots of the Guild so be it." She said before looking over at Nigel, restoring her more neutral demeanor. "You may resume, though please keep a modicum of brevity in mind." She said trying to be neutral as she did see the point Coyote was making, even if it was laced within some slightly uncivilized language.
Nigel would nod as he began to reformulate his approach, understanding what he was being asked. "About ten years into our guild's formation, we started to form trade routes with foreign lands at the same time our business expanded with the more we acquired skilled brokers and craftsman alike. We've had business dealings that have been going on for centuries, and lost more then half of them to the barbaric and petty assaults from their guild. Before my time, we only trained our people as a means of defense, never for war tactics. The first recorded assault was back a hundred years ago, when my father was young and taking on a deal with the Neal noble house." He said starting to explain before there was a large flash of light before everyone in the room was blinded for a moment as everyone felt a intense barrage to all physical and magical senses.
Luna covered her eyes instinctively, it took a moment to pass before there was a ringing sensation to her hearing, her body was trembling instinctively before slowly her natural recovery abilities would kick in to help restore her sense quicker then anyone else in the room. As she recovered from the flashbang she could see everyone was either head down on the table or on the floor. She looked over at Amelia first, however much to her expectations she could see Amelia was on the floor, her body unable to reflect it's synthetic life like vibe as there was a orange octagon screen of archive magic. On the screen was a a circle of various shades of light reaching around back to darkness twisting around in a circle. Luna assumed the magical overwhelming aspect of the flare interfered with her lightning lacrima fueled systems and she was forced into a emergency reboot and repair to her stimuli based overload. Considering Amelia's own systems seemed to be looking out for her without a klaxon sounding, Luna figured best to leave her be for the moment as she redirected her focus out back to the rest of the room.
Much to her chagrin she would find that Nigel and Coyote's skin seemed to be have black lines tracing their bodies.
Amelia would be shocked, if she didn't know all the details surrounding the history of this job beforehand. However even she had to admit that this job seemed to be more dangerous then what it really is. "I wasn't privy to the details of the Negotiations, you didn't tell me yet and you were only given full disclosure two days ago. At first it was too quiet, then everyone arrived yesterday and it was somehow too noisy for a night. But really? Was the negotiator's injuries that severe?" Luna nodded, she picked up one of the binders she had prepared, and flipped through the background reports. She felt bad for the poor man. However she was wondering how guilds that specialize in forging and marketing seem to have such high combat skills. "Frank Silver, renowned Negotiator, once settled a hundred disputes in fifty days. He was known as the God's Tongue, ironic as that was the only thing not injured. He managed to survive the negotiations fifty years ago thanks to an on site healer with around the clock care, however his missing parts weren't taken with him and by the time someone managed to find them, they had already been too severely damaged to be salvaged. However he was unable to walk about two years later. He retired soon after as the stress of the injuries became too much."
Luna closed the binder, before picking up the other three and handed them to Amelia. Luna poured herself another glass of water as Amelia started to quickly read each binder one by one. "Hard to believe we're talking about two merchants guilds." Luna's gaze drifted from the pitched as she lifted the glass, she looked back over at Amelia. "At least you do look lovely though." Amelia smirked a bit before letting out a soft chuckle. "Yeah, beautiful enough but not to fit the role of assistant to but not outshining the beautiful the great arbitrator Lunaris Mira- oh wait, LuShirain. Good call using your fairy formal name, might help prove that there is no bias on either side. Considering paranoia is what got things rioting the first place this should be a better start."
Luna nodded, she moved her gaze as she looked around the resort She saw a lot of the green clad Musketeers posted as guards around the resort, standing post and on patrol. Only Luna, Amelia, the Musketeers, the staff, and various representatives of the four nations governments were allowed to roam the premises freely. Setting up this event took a lot of planning on part of both the Fiore and Minstrel governments working together. All parties had to pass through Checkpoints set up by a small detachment of Rune Knights, confiscating weapons and attaching magic suppression devices as well as ensuring the parties were briefed on the rules and terms. Everything was scheduled so that neither party would see the other, and the Musketeers took over security for the resort itself while the Rune Knights stuck to camping on the outer perimeter.
Luna stepped back into the room and looked towards a clock, seeing that the time was growing near, she looked in the mirror one last time to insure that she was ready to go out and face all the parties involved. There was a knock on the door, one that was expected. "It's time." Came the voice from the other side of the door. Luna looked to Amelia, nodding as they made eye contact silently, before walking towards the door. Amelia had finished reading the history of the case. She merely brought the books and binders just for reference to others so no one would find her archive holograms altered in any way.
As Amelia got close to Luna, Luna could easily see the concern and fear in the eyes of the gynoid, Luna lightly touched underneath Amelia's chin. "Look, we dealt with worse before. I am sure we can handle one time as judge and assistant." Amelia was greatly concerned, while both of them faced more powerful threats, this one was different. "It isn't, we faced beings more powerful, but this time we're facing two sides that have something worse then power, blind desperation that exists in most since they could first breathe, that desperation drives them to go to any lengths. That alone makes them more dangerous, fifty years ago they were still able to smuggle weapons in and cause a mass murder. I am concerned, because I can't predict them." A pause settled in, but Luna knew from now until the night she could not afford to crack. She merely spoke in a comforting tone to her robotic companion. "Amelia, look, I sorta, planned for this. I made sure that the Minstrels know to place the potted plants in a arrangement to give me the ultimate flexibility, plus I can heal myself on the fly. With Lightning body you can strike down anyone quickly."
Amelia sighed, and with a glance she let Luna know without words that her support was still hers. Luna turned around and opened the door, and was greeted by a tall Musketeer. He was a man about six feet and three inches tall, muscular, wearing a Musketeer uniform, a rapier at his side and a musket on his back. He had green eyes, neck length brown hair tied back, and a goatee beard. This was Captain Timothy Johnson, leader of the Musketeer Regiment Minstrel sent for the security detachment. Taken by her beauty, Captain Johnson lowered down onto a knee. Luna was flattered by the gesture as she offered her hand to him, he gently moved her hand before giving it a gentle and brief kiss. "Ah, madame LuShirain, you're beauty is more exquisite every time my eyes are blessed with the chance to gaze."
Amelia was behind Luna and to the side, while rarely jealous, her feelings were creating a tension in the room. She gave a slight growl under her breath, Captain Johnson noticed the Gynoid, and could tell his flattery might have been a mistake. However after years of his work, he learned to make a quick save in times like this. "Ah, Miss Thorn, a beauty to behold in your own right." Sensing that while barely satisfied, Amelia wasn't going to say anything outwardly at this point so Captain Johnson rose back up and took a step back allowing Luna and Amelia to step out into the hallway before they started to walk down the hall. Luna raised her arm slightly as the Captain slowly took her arm as they walked through the halls. "Dear me, I got an escort by the Captain of the 20th Regiment, what could ever give me this honor?"
The Captain let out a slight chuckle. "I have my best Musketeers overseeing that both sides get in there without conflict. This is merely a show to let the governing officials see how good we cooperate, which I must say I am enjoying this set up. I anticipated a clash, yet things turned out magnificent." Luna nodded, she agreed with how things ended up going so smoothly. While she herself was not associated with the Rune Knights, she admired their ability to act quickly. Although, she did not spend much time, roughly two hours after the day long voyage on the Rune Knight Ship, the final representative of the governing parties before all of them where admitted into the resort. "I concur, however from my time spent with the Rune Knights in transport, apparently they were overdue for an outpost base and camp training exercise. Not to mention their coordination is magnificent, so to simultaneously strip search two sides is easy. The Musketeers have more experience with the architecture of the land, it just made more sense for you to take over the internal security. Since the Magic Council appointed me as Adjudicator, I have no say in security and trust you and your men."
The Captain nodded, grateful for the faith shown in him by the Nature Fairy. "While we have the time on the route, would you mind if I ask a few questions to satisfy my curiosity?" Her curiosity was piqued, as she figured best to get on a good term with the man and letting unanswered questions remain seemed to be a bad idea as she did not want things to fester. She nodded. "Sure, feel free to ask away." The Captain composed himself as he wanted to be careful with what he said. While he was a master on the combat field with his Wind Rapier and Pyro Musket, he knew that angering Luna, especially when Amelia was near, was a very bad idea. "Madame LuShirain, why did the Magic Council appoint you to be the Adjudicator for this trial?" Luna figured this question was going to be asked at some point, but she did not want to repeat things all day. "I am going to explain that at the start of the session, I'd rather avoid repeating myself. I hope you understand. Also at the very least call me Luna, if not Lunaris. LuShirain is mostly used during formal situations or my mother cursing me out."
The Captain nodded, understanding quite well the annoyance of repeating things. He had to hear about the same issues from both his Lieutenants when he assigned each to lead a group keeping the parties in line. "I understand, to be honest I don't think convincing either side is going to be done without a lot of repetition. However, Madame Lunaris, if it isn't much to ask, for the gala after, do you have anyone special to attend with?"
Luna was most flattered by the man's charm while Amelia was still envious of Luna receiving the majority of the attention of his sweet talking. Luna merely coyly smiled back at him, figuring that playing a little hard to get would keep things interesting. While she would not mind having the Captain as an escort, the night of the gala was still long away. "Perhaps, we shall see how things play out." The Captain let out a slight chuckle before the group soon arrived at a double door that had a guard posted outside, the Captain nodded to the man and the door was opened and the three individuals walked inside.
The room involved was the interim court room, which would normally serve as the main dining gallery and dance floor. The room itself has two levels, the ground floor and the balcony levels. In the center was the large dance floor and at one end of the room was a stage where hired performers can play, and was connected to the stage were two stairwells on opposite sides allowing access between the two levels. On and underneath the balcony were the dining areas for tables. The room was made from wood with exquisite art decorating the hall.
It was decided that this room would serve as the grounds for mediation between the two factions and was modified accordingly. Two long tables were placed opposing each other 25 feet apart. A smaller table as placed near the stage, while a medium sized one was placed upon the stage with a larger chair behind it, the contents of the table were simply a gavel and block. The balcony railing was modified with a special barrier to protect the visiting dignitaries from any harm. All of them were watching sitting at tables along the side of the balcony facing the stage.
There were four Musketeers and a limited number of hotel staff in the area, all for the four individuals representing the involved nations present. Luna knew them by reputation alone. From Bosco was Arnold Bloodsilver, district master of one of the leading Merchant Guild boards. He was a gruff elderly man dressed in a four piece dark wool and silver lined suit with a elegant black cane adorned with gold patterns. He was never really happy that things got so bad that he had to be here again, as he was present fifty years ago at the last negotiations. From Fiore was a beautiful and elegant woman in her mid thirties but still had the complexion of mid twenties. She had flowing red hair, covering her right eye that was scarred and blinded, she was dressed in a emerald dress. Her amethyst eye was gazing down at the court room bellow, curious as to how this would play out. The woman was known as Nala Ironclaw, a Fioran noblewoman from part of a southern part of Fiore. She was sent to observe the whole matter. From Ca-Elum was a short elderly woman by the name of Irene Enean that represented the governing trade commission of the nation. She kept displaying a bitter attitude towards the whole need to travel to observe this on behalf of their respective organization. From Minstrel, there was one of the Musketeers higher ranked officers, Colonel Samuel Eliat, a rather strong man with a prominent white mustache, drinking a glass of whiskey.
As the three wizards walked in, the eyes of the dignitaries soon traced over towards them. "Greetings, I am LuShirain, and this is my acting secretary Amelia Thorn." Nala's eye traced over towards Nature fairy, Luna shuddered slightly at the intimidation. "Yes, the Nature Fairy, former leader of Aurora, I read your file. You're a common pawn of the Magic Council from what some friends say, kudos putting away the Seamoors." Nala said as she examined Luna. Samuel chuckled. "So, she's the one that finally nailed those sons of bitches. That happened in Minstrel they'd be gone before the first scam." The colonel added, Nala ignored the Minstrel officer. "Naturally I did my homework before allowing my consent. Lunaris daughter of Shirain, born Lunaris Mira, human/fairy hybrid that ended up converting to maternal lineage, a Vishda Fae. Frankly it feels like someone went out of there way to try and find the most impartial individual possible." The Noblewoman said as Luna was starting to feel slightly uncomfortable.
She had a feeling she was being sized up and no one interfered with the scene until Captain Johnson coughed twice as he stepped forward, looking over the balcony rail to look down. "Alright, both parties are ready, we are ready for Justice LuShirain." He said, Luna walked over towards the end, nervous as she looked over towards the room bellow where she started to gaze and look at both sides, starting with the further side.
From Ca-Elum was the smithing and merchant guild known as Obsidian Fang, a guild that's origins span back over two hundred years. It was a renowned guild for producing quality weapons among having jewel crafters of immense skill, at their peak they were even asked by many foreign nobles to craft exquisite necklaces, rings, earrings, and other forms of jewelry, many of which became family heirlooms. The guild was the first to have a wide spread of influence across Minstrel and Fiore.
From the guild were four individuals representing them. Closest to the table was the current leader, Nigel Bloodstone, the eighth leader who's family has served the guild for three generations. He was a stern elderly man, he was commonly known as the Obsidian Fortress for his high strength and endurance on the battlefield, and his unwavering stubbornness once he set his goal or mind on a subject. Luna knew that he was going to be one of the major obstacles in this arbitration, as he was raised in this long standing conflict and from what she heard, he still believes Earth-Land is flat.
Next to Nigel was his much younger wife, Sheila Bloodstone, who served as his advisor. From what was known, the marriage was purely political. Sheila was a woman in her early twenties and little was known about her, many suspect her of being a sociopath as she always remained void of emotion in the face of company. Sheila happened to be Nigel's second wife and mother of his third and fifth children. All Luna knew was that Nigel was divorced and his first wife had ended up a hostage after the divorce, tortured, and let go as soon as the divorce was proven to be real. Rumors say she was a double agent that was driven mad by the conflict and many decided not to press further into the matter.
After Sheila was Obsidian Fang's Accountant, a dwarfed man wearing sunglasses by the name of Jim Con. Jim was born with dwarfism and his eyes were sensitive to light to a point where he is blinded in the average room's lighting so he always wheres sunglasses. Minstrel and Ca-Elum authorities detained him many times, but he always remained innocent of knowing battle plans, it was always clear he knew full well what was going on but he claimed to just operate the books, not having any direct connection to the incidents. Luna heard rumors that he was sly on the tongue but always seemed to operate under the assumption of never lying, even if slightly skewed, he never told anything but the truth.
Lastly at the table was one of the guild's up and coming talents, a seventeen year old by the name of Mikhael Korna. He was a renowned talent that excelled in light weaponry, most notably one handed swords, especially rapiers. He was a eager to please type of smith, some would say much too eager at times. She heard rumors that he sometimes even went out of his way to go find prospective clients, especially well known or famous ones. While on the surface it could be seen as just as an upstart looking for fame, something about the situation seemed to bother Luna. A few years ago this boy was barely heard of but then showed up with unprecedented commitment to try and become the best and demonstrate loyalty.
Overall Luna had an appreciation for the guild's history and dedication to their craft, however their history of stubborn leaders appeared to serve as a great failing. She understood that this was a guild based on tradition and honor, but even then that honor was questionable at times looking back at the history of the conflict. As Luna passed middle part of the upper hall, her glance moved as the other guild's representatives were in her view.
From Bosco was the Ascending Phoenix crafter and merchant's guild. While the guild has old roots, it is not as old as the opposing guild. It's origins date back approximately a hundred and thirty years ago. The guild had a dedicated focus to create advanced tools and technology, many noteworthy members were avid futurists that set goals and often achieved them with a passion and dedication like no other. However this passion was often misplaced into certain projects, like the notable dressing booth that aimed to offer an alternative to normal or magic methods of getting dressed, but caused many severe injuries and lawsuits, it took seventy five years for the guild to discontinue that project. Their tenacity was something to behold, except for those trying to stand in their way. When Bosco authorities tried to get them to cease the conflict with Obsidian Fang, they merely found ways to fight outside of their eyes.
First off, representing the guild was it's current master, Iam Gon, a middle aged man who happened to be the fifth leader. The title of master was granted solely because of the guild's tradition of inheritance, as he was a direct descendant of the first master who was around when the conflict first started. Comparing the history of the guild to this man brings a shocking difference. The man seemed to be trembling nervously and few have ever heard his voice, rumors say he lost it or has taken a vow of silence. The man was sweating constantly, Luna even thought she could smell the scent of his perspiration from far away. Luna could tell from sensing his life force he was in a constant state of panic. Luna had her suspicions that the man was timing, especially when compared to his spouse. Luna had a feeling if she went through him, she might be able to get a compromise on Ascending Phoenix's part.
Next to him was his wife and second in command of the guild, Coyote Gon, a large hefty woman that carried a stare strong enough to make even the Colonel react. While her husband's voice was known by few, her voice was known by all as she was often shouting aggressively, she was very much an outspoken woman and truly represented the guild's tenacity. She had a one track mind that once set on a goal, she didn't care what she had to step on to get it, including human rights. Luna shuddered when she read the transcripts that basically described her forcing nine guild members to work with minimal breaks and bare minimum nutrition that Luna thought was still underfed, all to work on a farming tool. When faced at the courts, she was even willing to threaten the judges and spit in their face. The details surrounding the charges being dropped were based on a technicality and she only faced a fine for her disrespect in the courtroom. When dealing with the guild, it was clear that she was going to be a major obstacle. Luna suspected that she would need to be stern right out of the woodworks with her.
Next to the demoness incarnate was a woman dressed in her mechanics overalls halfway open, gloves, and work boots. Her short messy black hair reached her neck, she had hetero chromatic eyes, one blue one red. This woman was Jane Zyne, a twenty eight year old woman who's family history within the guild rivals the Gons. Zyne was presently a tenured engineer who unbeknownst to everyone except Luna, Amelia, high ranking musketeers, and the various representatives was actually discretely passing out intel to the appropriate authorities outlining Coyotes plans that are less then legal when she can. It had seemed that Jane was well aware of the current position her guild was in, and despite the fact that it could fall apart with her spending a life imprisoned, she was willing to fight for the image that she believes the guild has fallen from. Luna believed that if she went through Jane she might have a chance at resolution.
Lastly at the end of the table was a newer recruit to Ascending Phoenix, a young woman sixteen years old but a rare prodigy of the medical field, Serene Jefal. Serene Jefal, a reclusive and shy individual who had no prior history before joining Ascending Phoenix but even more odd she was considered a prodigy and within a year was given her own department as Ascending Phoenix branched out into the medical sector. Apparently there was several background checks into her by Ascending Phoenix and the Bosco governments, neither of which provided any information, but it was worth noting as soon as her work proved immensely profitable Ascending Phoenix stopped their investigation entirely. As a healing expert who suddenly appeared in many circles Luna herself sympathized with Serene, but the difference is everything about Luna can be traced and she does not withhold anything. As a result Luna remains suspicious of the woman, although wanting to give her the benefit of doubt.
Overall Luna had mixed feelings about the Ascending Phoenix guild ad they seemed to be shady and cutthroat when it came to business. However while she was deeply troubled she couldn't judge the guild as a whole as Jane did prove that not everyone is of the dominance oriented mindset. However she knew she'd need to watch the Bosco guild very seriously, especially given that Arnold Silverblood is present. From what Luna heard the Silverblood family knew the Gons for a while but grew distant, probably a mutual attempt to avoid the consequences of the guild war. Luna knew that she would she would need to watch Coyote and make sure she doesn't have any ground to spew unsubstantiated and purely alleged facts.
Eventually Luna, Amelia, and the Musketeer Captain made their way towards the the stairwell and slowly walked down the square spiraling stairs. However just as the group reached the final step Timothy slowly freed his arm and stepped forward, whispering to the Sabertooth mage and her companion. "Although a mere moment and meter may separate us, it shall feel like an eternity and mile away from your divine radiance. Fate has cast me in the role of the bailiff, I am prepared." He then looked over at Amelia. "Madame Thorn, are you prepared for our shared entrance?" Meanwhile Amelia was mentally fuming with anger and slight jealousy that all that seemed to happen was she stood around and watched as the musketeer flirted with Luna, while Amelia seemed to be treated almost as an afterthought. While her mind was artificial, her feelings were very real but with a great deal of focus she managed to keep them under control and under the surface. She took a deep breathe and passed Luna and the Musketeer Captain, wishing to get this day from hell over with already. "Yeah, lets just get this started..."
Unsure of why Amelia is aggressive, Timothy followed her out and stood by the stage, while Amelia prepared documents on Luna's desk atop the stage, before walking down to fix up her own before she hooked up the Archive magic display, with the two access points on Luna's and her own disk, while setting up a larger yellow octagon monitor above. Once Amelia was seated and taking notes, she nodded to Timothy signaling that she was ready and the proceeding events can begin. Luna took a deep breath while Timothy cleared his throat rather heavily getting the attention of both parties, silencing any whispering chatter among them. "All rise for her honor, appointed by joint effort of all concerning governing bodies and the Magic Council, Justice LuShirain!"
Soon each member of the opposing guilds, some of which (especially Coyote) begrudgingly complied with the request. Coyote had a slight scowl on her face, while Nigel was merely annoyed at the prospect of his top brass being at this meeting and delaying efficiency slightly. Luna waited a moment before slowly walking out onto the stage, taking a seat at her chair overlooking the two warring sides of a massive issue, and bellow the gaze of various officials. Once Luna was adjusted into her chair she swallowed spit dangling around in her throat before looking out. "You may be seated." Luna said as everyone in the temporary courtroom.
Immediately Coyote was the first one to speak following the silence. "Excuse me young lady but I have a-" Coyote tried to say before Luna picked up the gavel and slammed it down loud making a loud noise interrupting Coyote. "Did I give you the floor? You may not speak until then, am I understood?" She practically snapped at Coyote, letting the Ascending Phoenix matriarch know right from the get go she was not lenient to entitled behavior. "But I-" Coyote tried to interject but Luna slammed the gavel down and gave a stern look, a tense moment passed through silence, the gritting of Coyote's teeth audible to even the dignitaries and her frown equally as tense as she faced Luna's calm expression. "Withdrawn" She said after a few minutes of the tension.
Luna took a deep breath as she prepared to address both parties, especially with Coyote's recent display seeming to only reinforce the need for Luna to be stern and lay down the law. "Alright, time to begin. I am Justice LuShirain, a Nature Fae that has been given power by the Fioran, Minstrel, Ca-Elum, and Bosco governments to preside over this case. I was sought out by the Magic Council, and their decision was solidified and approved by each of your governing officials. I am in no way a member of the Magic Council, associated with the Rune Knights, Fioran government, Minstrel government, Musketeers, Bosco government, Ca-Elum Government, each of their guild systems, or even with the geographical area in which any reported or alleged incident took place. Someone went far out of their way to find me and clarify me free of any potential significant biases. I am not partial to any side and will not tolerate any accusations otherwise."
Luna let a small pause for breath before she was able to continue this line of thought while she had everyone listening. "For the duration of this matter I have been given Arbitraitor status and both your native governing officials have granted me the power to disband either of your guilds-" Coyote stood up starting to yell "That's not-" However Luna merely kept her calm tone and spoke louder. "-either of your guilds at any point and require only my confirmation. If I find either party out of line or anything else I don't like I can end it right then and there. However I acknowledge both guilds have a strong history and wish to preserve both if I can, but my patience is not eternal.
Luna looked at the Ascending Phoenix side with slight tension. "Do you, members of Ascending Phoenix acknowledge the terms, aware of all consequences of refusal to follow?" She said sternly as she could tell Coyote was itching to fight against the arbitrator but relented, elbowing her husband makming the already sweating man nervous as he stood up stuttering. "Ye- yes, your honor... We acknowledge and accept." He said almost falling over as he would return to his seat. Luna could tell that this was only going to be the beginning of a long and arduous cycle. Silently letting out a sigh she would turn back over towards the opposing guild's side. "Do you, members of Obsidian Fang, acknowledge the terms, aware of all consequences of refusal to follow?" She asked before Nigel stood up and nodded. "Justice LuShirain we are aware of the rules and ramifications, and we have no issues with you presiding." He said before Luna would respond with a nod and he would sit back down, followed by a remark from Coyote. "Kiss ass" She muttered prompting a slight glare from the pink haired arbitrator. "Mrs. Gon, I trust my earlier statement has not slipped passed your memory. Unless you are here for a quick verdict please remain silent until it is your time." Luna said in an authoritative tone making the merchant woman grumble.
Luna could feel that her patience was going to be trying, however she slowly returned her focus over towards the side of the Ca-Ellum guild as she would take a great care of caution with her approach, not offending them in any shape or form, while at the same time not allowing the opposing guild's present matriarch to have any excuse to intervene, either maliciously or with the thinnest of plausible reasoning. "Master Nigel, from what I understand it was you who had brought motion towards these talks before the ultimatum decision was reached. I have read reports for background knowledge from Minstrel and Fioran sources-" Coyote was about to interject but Jane held her mouth shut for a moment and her dual colored eyes met with Coyote's for a moment, demonstrating the pure hateful nature of their relationship as either woman rarely misses an opportunity to use any advantage she gets against the other. Jane silently shushed Coyote, this did not go unnoticed but in order to save time everyone else decided to move on as Luna continued.
"-however I would appreciate hearing the perspectives of both sides, and since you decided to make a move for peace I will pretend in part that you called for this and thus you brought the motion. Could you please describe the war from the perspective of Obsidian Fang?" Luna said as she tried to at least be respectful but also clear and concise. She did not want to give anyone any reason to suspect she wasn't being anything less then impartial. Nigel nodded and gestured to the binder of documents in front of him, comparing the two guilds prepared documentation was in fact interesting as all of Obsidian Fang's were kept neatly and organized, few documents outside of a binder or a folder, while the other side was haphazard at best.
"May I be allowed to refer to the note's of myself and my forefathers? This matter spans beyond my own lifetime and my memory is not above failing me at times." Nigel asked and Luna nodded as she had received a copy of all the notes beforehand, and due to the circumstances including a full century of history it would be unreasonable to preclude. Also Luna had a feeling Nigel already organized his thoughts and was keeping a lifeline open. "Proceed. Just not a full verbatim, I did ask for a perspective summary." She reminded and clarified verbally.
The elder man cleared his throat as he began to compose his speech. "Alright, Obsidian Fang is a guild that has been standing the test of time. Our roots go back at least seven generations, starting as a simple coalition of a disgraced noble bastard with a handoff from his family who stumbled upon a smithing prodigy suffocating under the ego of his master, ready to cast off into the world. By chance the two met, and with the last of their embers they resparked a flame as both found a passion for life once more as they started a business selling simple weapons, slowly expanding their business, taking in other strays like themselves until the day Obsidian Fang was Born-" He would begin to say before Coyote Gon would step up. "Objection, he's just prattling on about! Do your bloody-" She said looking at Luna who in turn gave her a sharp gaze back. "Overruled, I asked him to explain the source of the conflict, it goes back to the early roots of the Guild so be it." She said before looking over at Nigel, restoring her more neutral demeanor. "You may resume, though please keep a modicum of brevity in mind." She said trying to be neutral as she did see the point Coyote was making, even if it was laced within some slightly uncivilized language.
Nigel would nod as he began to reformulate his approach, understanding what he was being asked. "About ten years into our guild's formation, we started to form trade routes with foreign lands at the same time our business expanded with the more we acquired skilled brokers and craftsman alike. We've had business dealings that have been going on for centuries, and lost more then half of them to the barbaric and petty assaults from their guild. Before my time, we only trained our people as a means of defense, never for war tactics. The first recorded assault was back a hundred years ago, when my father was young and taking on a deal with the Neal noble house." He said starting to explain before there was a large flash of light before everyone in the room was blinded for a moment as everyone felt a intense barrage to all physical and magical senses.
Luna covered her eyes instinctively, it took a moment to pass before there was a ringing sensation to her hearing, her body was trembling instinctively before slowly her natural recovery abilities would kick in to help restore her sense quicker then anyone else in the room. As she recovered from the flashbang she could see everyone was either head down on the table or on the floor. She looked over at Amelia first, however much to her expectations she could see Amelia was on the floor, her body unable to reflect it's synthetic life like vibe as there was a orange octagon screen of archive magic. On the screen was a a circle of various shades of light reaching around back to darkness twisting around in a circle. Luna assumed the magical overwhelming aspect of the flare interfered with her lightning lacrima fueled systems and she was forced into a emergency reboot and repair to her stimuli based overload. Considering Amelia's own systems seemed to be looking out for her without a klaxon sounding, Luna figured best to leave her be for the moment as she redirected her focus out back to the rest of the room.
Much to her chagrin she would find that Nigel and Coyote's skin seemed to be have black lines tracing their bodies.
