Great Hall: Palace of Andor, Caemlyn

The Grand Hall is beautifully imposing, taking one's breath away. This is the Throne Room from which Andoran Queens have received ambassadors and pronounced judgement for close to a thousand years. Rows of white columns over twenty paces high march down the sides of the hall. A red carpet runs down the center of the Hall, to a raised marble dais, upon which sits the Lion Throne.

Red-and-white liveried servants busy themselves with washing the tall windows that line the eastern wall. The Grand Hall is somewhat chilly, the small fire in the corner doesn't quell the chill of winter in this huge room. You are compelled to draw your cloak or coat more tightly about your body. The tall, arched doorway of white stone leads back out to the entry hall.

Jeffrin
Courtiers

Aislynn comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Sasha comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Xavier arrives with Sasha.

Entering the Grand Hall, without any sort of flourish, is Rennar Hune. She seems to bear an unreadable expression, looking much as though her stomach twists inside out - however she struggles to maintain a calm expression. She makes her way to the front of the room and curtseys to the Queen as is proper - then moves off opposite sides from where Jeffrin stands before her Majesty. If seats are provided, she sits until the trial actually begins.

Jeffrin enters the Grand hall wearing the garb of a prisoner. His hands are bound together with shackles. Guards lead him to a bench and sit him down then proceed to stand at attention on his flanks

Aislynn sits on The Lion Throne.

Margiel comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

In all her resplendent regalia of her birthright--Rose Crown and White Lion Stole...not to mention the Great Serpent Ring that glitters upon her slender finger--Aislynn, the young Queen of Andor, sits regally upon the White Lion Throne, her skirts spread out around her in a swirl of red and white. She watches the prisoner being trooped in, eyeing him critically for a moment, and then watches others enter and seat themselves.

Margiel watches coolly.

Satira comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Rennar is seated on the opposite side of the room as Jeffrin. Her face appears to be a twisted attempt of stoic calm, however mixes with the turmoil felt within. She folds her hands within her lap, waiting quietly for the proceedings.

Jeffrin sits there quietly. His concentration seems pretty much to be on his feet as he finds looking up only earns him the contempt of those who used to be his peers.

Being escorted by one of the house servants, the young lady Satira is brought into the grand hall and seated somewhere in the back. Is it such a good idea for her to be here? Probably not.

A rather dignified, white-haired older man, appearing to be well into middle age, if not already beyond it, walks into the room, trailed by two scribes--if the stacks of parchment and quills and inkpots the young men carry are any indication of such. The man takes a perfunctory glance around the room, and walks down the center of the Hall, stopping at the foot of the dais to bow elegantly to the Queen. "Your Majesty." The scribes follow suit, if not quite so gracefully, and the three of them take a seat upon the dais, just below the Lion Throne. The man shuffles some papers in front of himself, reading for a moment, and then takes another glance about the room.

Aeron comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Jaeara comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Satira's eyes pause on Rennar, her face lighting. She seems about to get up, but the servant at her side keeps her down, whispering something to her.

Sasha motions silently to Xavier to some open seats in the back of the room.

Aeron enters with Jaeara, moving a bit awkwardly through the crowd as he escorts the young woman to one side of the grand hall.

Rennar's eyes trail after the scribes from her seated position at the front of the room. A brow lifts quietly as she observes those about her. Briefly, she glances over at Jeffrin, eyes and expression finally reaching that unreadable state as she takes in her uncle. However, she does not look any less comfortable than she did presently only moments before.

Ealam comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Xavier moves quietly and sits down at the back.

Aislynn smiles as she sees Satira enter, and nods politely to Aeron and his companion, Jaeara. That worthy woman gets a scrutinizing glance, and the Queen's lips quirk into a warm smile for her....seeming to greatly approve of her. She then turns to the dignified older man who sits a few steps below her, at a fine straight-backed chair with a small table in front of him, and waves one slender, pale hand. To the room at large, her rich and melodic voice rings out, "The High Court of Andor is now in session. The honorable Vincenne al'Daana presiding." Upon this pronouncement, a Palace Herald stationed at the very foot of the dais calls out in clipped tones, "All rise for the anthem of Andor." At this, two Guards in crips uniforms unfurl flags of Andor at either side of the dais, and a small band in the back of the Hall strikes up with an instrumental rendition of Andor's national song, "Forward the White Lion..."

Ealam slips in as unnoticeably as possible and takes a place near the rear of the room.

Rennar rises from her seat in a fluid, graceful movement, lowering her head and placing her hand to her heart as the Anthem plays. Skirts rustle about her as they go from settled to being rattled a bit.

Jaeara moves to stand Beneath the Windows.

Aerilyn comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Jeffrin is hauled up off his seat by the guards

Almost mimicking the movement of her bigger sister, Satira does the same. The little girl seems to be well trained.

Sasha rises quickly placing her hand over her heart trying to look like she belongs there.

Aeron casts a quick glance over the crowd, and remains standing over towards the corner of the room. Aislynn's nod is returned respectfully, though Aeron frowns to himself as the Queen smiles towards his companion.

Aeron moves to stand Beneath the Windows.

Jaeara settles into a standing position beside Aeron, in a warmed spot of light underneath the windows. She glances towards Aeron, following his lead, though Aislynn garners a shy smile and slight coloring, the dark-haired girl's lips curving into a joyful smile, though it's muted by the solemn occasion.

Xavier also rises with his hand over heart, trying and failing to look like he belongs here.

Aerilyn comes in from another entrance and takes up position as a Queen's Guardsmen. She is out of most normal sightlines

The music stops, the anthem being finished, and the Herald once again gestures for everyone to be seated. Vincenne rises from his makeshift desk upon the dais, and says in a rich, booming voice, "All here attend and give ear, for justice will be meted today by myself, Magistrate by the Queen's auspices." He looks toward Jeffrin, a decidedly neutral expression on his face, and says, "Prisoner, you are called before judgement at the charge of the Lady Rennar Hune." He pauses and looks to that worthy lady, and then sweeps a dark-eyed glance over the room at large. "Lord Jeffrin of House Hune, you are hereby charged with kidnapping, attempting to interfere with the lawful rights of inheritance, and conspiracy to committ murder." He pauses again, letting this information sink into those present, and then says, "Your accusers are here to face you." He gestures to Rennar, "Lady Rennar, of House Hune, you will give your testimony." The scribes madly write down the proceedings, seemingly verbatim from their concentration and mad dipping into inkwells.

Jeffrin stands there before the queen and her magistrate. he says nothing.

Vincenne, the dignified Magistrate, resumes his seat, waiting patiently for the Lady Hune to present and argue her charges.

Narine comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Sasha suddenly realizes others are sitting then sits herself, she is wide-eyed watching the proceedings, never having seen anything like this before. As she sits she tugs on Xaviers sleeve so he is not the last to be standing.

Narine strides into the room, her bow over her shoulder, her eyes widening at the sight of the multitudes of people gathered.

Only gleaning moments to sit down, Rennar rises from her position once more, smooting over her skirts with her hands. It takes her a few moments to get herself settled enough - butterflies no doubt lining her stomach. She looks toward Jeffrin, studying him with her emerald green eyes in a careful manner. Licking her lips, she glances to Aislynn and the Magistrate and half-bows/half-curtseys once more before starting. "If it pleases the court." her voice is softly spoken with the first two words, but then gains in volume, strengthening. "On the evening of my engagement party, sponsored both by myself and Lord Demonder Hune, I was abducted from my own grounds, drugged and gagged and thrown into a carriage. This incident occured after an arguement between myself and Lord Jeffrin in front of several guests being entertained that evening. Some of my own guards were slain that evening." She takes a breath, pausing a moment to wait for acknowledgement from the Magistrate before going on.

Jeffrin stands there before the queen and the assembled mob listening to the testimony as it is given.

Vincenne nods to Rennar, gesturing for her to go on.

Narine glances about her, and swallows as she listens to the Lady Rennar speak, and turns narrowed eyes towards Jeffrin, growling deep in her throat. She takes slow steps towards the Throne, going to stand almost protectivly beside the Queen, offering her a curtsey as she takes her place.

Aislynn turns to smile warmly at Narine as she takes her place, and then turns her glacial blue eyes back to the proceedings.

Inarin comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Rennar nods slightly to Vincenne, then continues, gaining some strength from her words, "When I awoke, I was within a carriage filled with several masked figures We rode around until all within House Hune settled after my disappearance, then I was transported back to Tiras Lorn. There, my uncle sought to terrorize me in many forms, though first and foremost through the use of his dog." She shifts uncomfortably, "Many nobles within Andor, and many of my closest friends know that I am frightened of such beasts, and not without good reason." She had been attacked by a pack of wild dogs when younger. "When he was through with those amusements, he had ordered my head to be shaved and then gave me rags to wear. I was not to bathe unless he had reason for me to do so and I was locked away in a small room until he had use for me." Again there is another pause, as she catches her breath, and another watchful gaze toward Vincenne waiting for the signal to continue.

Inarin arrives, quietly, and in uniform with a few other Children with him. He appears to be moving steadily, but slowly. He does, however, appear msotly healed in body, if not completely in spirit. He sits, quietly, making no bigger fanfare of his ar rival than already is there, of course. Sneak, sneak, sneak.

Eyes narrowing, Narine's hand tightens on her bow, until her knuckles whiten. She leans down and whispers something into the Queen's ear, as her eyes glitter with hatred, landing upon Jeffrin.

The magistrate nods his silver head, and intones, "Let the record show that the Lord Hune used fear tactics to terrify and coerce his neice." The scribes both nod, still bent over their work. Vincenne looks up to Lord Hune, and says, politely, "You shall have your just and fair turn to speak, Sir, and refute these claims." He turn back to Rennar, and says, "But for now, Lady Rennar, please continue..."

Jeffrin listens quietly...Yes this all sounds very bad...

Deveran comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Jeffrin is obviously in no hurry to speak

Aislynn lifts a brow at Inarin's arrival, but offers the man a cordial nod. He is, after all, of Andor. And none were barred from attending these proceedings this day. At Narine's whisper, she turns slightly and gives a little nod, replying quickly.

Aeron gives the group of whitecloaks a wary look as they enter the grand hall. His gaze shifts to the Queen, and then relaxes as she simply nods to the leader of the newcomers.

Narine nods slowly and rises, turning her gaze upon the Magistrate, and then towards the Lady Hune, offering her a faint, sympathetic smile, before turning cold eyes towards Jeffin, visibly holding herself back by resting a hand upon the back of the Throne, gripping it.

Belatedly, a foppish courtier in the back covers his eyes dramatically at the news of the dog, and says, in an overdramatic squeal, "-Oh-, how horrid of the man!"

Cronus comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Rudra arrives with Cronus.

Others would know that when Rennar was young, she had gotten herself locked into a closet for several hours on end, and is thusly also frightened of confined spaces. Her breath catches as something flickers out of the corner of her eye, something that remained unnoticable to her until now. Her face pales briefly, though she seems to retain nerve enough to continue. "Further, he declared himself Head of the House, as he thought from the beginning, since my own father inherited, was his own right. He also staged my 'death', having a corpse stolen from one of the city morgues and placing my clothing and jewelry upon it, along with my shaven hair so others would assume I was no longer alive. They very night that my body was found, the night the Festival of Roses began, he had me go with him to the festival and traipsed me around as some sort of prize. He fired all almost all of my staff and guards, and hired new men and people within the House to make certain I would stay in line. I feared for my family, so did not turn myself in during what little mobility I was given at the Feast." She pauses her words, glancing over her shoulder briefly at the sound of the courtier speaking.

Rudra heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

The scribes continue their expert scribbling, and Vincenne nods to Rennar's words, lifting a white brow, "Shall we further add the charge of Theft to his already not inconsiderable list of charges, Lady Rennar? Or do you wish to let the charges stand as is?"

Durnik comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Ealam turns his head from his place near the rear of the hall to stare steely eyed at the foppish squealing courtier, before turning back to listen. His expression is vaguely distasteful.

With sets of eyes on him, the foppish fellow moves behind a couple of taller courtiers, making himself scarce.

Sasha tugs on Xaviers arm and whispers into his ear, "Poor Rennar and she still helps people like us." her voice low enough that it cannot be heard from the front.

Xavier nods in agreement, but says nothing, his eyes slightly wide with a mixture of horror, pity, and disgust.

The young Queen simply sits regally upon her Throne, watching the regardings with an air of quiet majesty, her lips twitching in unreadable expressions every now and again, as more of the testimony unfolds.

Turning her head back to the front of the court, Rennar lifts a brow Vincenne, "If you believe the situation mertis it, yes, Magistrate. I feel for the family who lost their kin and not able to give the person proper burial because of my uncle's actions." She pauses a moment, glancing toward Jeffrin briefly to regard her uncle. She swallows, then continues, "After the festival, the Queen surrounded House Hune with her guard. Though before that occured, after the scene with Lord Demonder Roesone within the plaza, he became angered at all the talk of justice coming to him, and meted out his frustrations upon my person because of it." There is a slight shiver coming from Rennar as she speaks those words, her eyes unreadable. "Further, he sought to terrorize me more with his dog. I was made to attend to him, act as his servant, clean the House, and his posessions." There is a brief pause as she turns her eyes back to Jeffrin, "He also met with a stranger, a noble I believe, who ordered him to kill me."

Belisune comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Pitor comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Belisune slips in as quietly as she can, very sorry at the disturbance

Durnik enters the hall, and turns quickly to the side, heading up the far right side of the room towards the dais where Aislynn sits.

Vincenne nods at these new words by Rennar, and says to the scribes, "Let the record show that the Lord Jeffrin Hune shall have the charge of Theft added. This is only because it was of such a heinous nature: deprivin some poor family of their dead kin." He nods again to Rennar, "Please continue, Lady Rennar..."

As she sees Durnik ascend the dais, and take his place near to her, Aislynn offers him a warm little smile, and nods her head politely, before turning her eyes back to the proceedings.

There is a moment's pause before Rennar goes on, "In my uncle's defense, he did refuse the order of the stranger." Her eyes carefully regard Jeffrin as she murmurs those words, "He would not have me killed. That angered the man, who only threatened further our House and family." There is another pause, then she continues, "On my uncle, that is all I have to say about the matter, for he had nothing to do with what occured, as far as I can tell, with the assassins who came right before the Queen's Guard and Children of the Light stormed Tiras Lorn. Of that, all that I can deduce is that the man whom Jeffrin refused decided to hire others to do the task my uncle would not do."

Vincenne nods at Rennar's testimony, and appears to mull it over in his mind for a few moments, amid the silence of the Grand Hall. Finally, he nods once again, and says, "Thank you, Lady Rennar. Let the record show that the Lady Rennar has spoken in defense of the Lord Jeffrin on the charge of conspiracy to committ murder." He looks over to Jeffrin, a bit of sympathy in his wise, old eyes. "It will be taken under consideration as mitigating circumstances, Lord Jeffrin." He then looks back to Rennar, and says, "Are there any witnesses you wish to call, to help solidify and corroborate your case?"

Durnik stands silently at Aislynn's side, just behind her shoulder. His hands clasped behind his back, and his armor gleaming.

Narine tightens her grip upon the back of the throne, and nods her head to Durnik, before gazing at Jeffrin, hate plain in her eyes.

Rennar shifts slightly, eyes regarding the Magistrate. She then looks about the room, looking for familiar faces. Her eyes pause on Narine and the Queen. "Her Majesty, the Queen, and Mistress Narine were both present at the engagement party. Aside from they, no others could corroborate the rest of my story, at least none who would do so willingly. Very few of the servants were aware of my position within House Hune, hidden away. My sister, Lady Satira, could tell you of what occured within the House, under my uncle's care with the exception of what was done to myself."

Rennar seems to consider, "And perhaps Lord Aeron. He was one of the few guards who found me outside of the Manor after my escape."

Vincenne nods at this, and turns his gaze around, to the rest of the dais behind him. "Narine, is it?" he says, addressing the Saldaean woman standing next to the Throne, "Please face the Court and give your testimony on the engagement party in question..."

Apparently not paying very close attention to the proceedings, Aeron looks over sharply at the sound of his name. It takes a second for him to gather that his testimony may be needed, and he starts to watch events more closely, a small frown crossing his face.

Narine nods slowly, and steps away from the Throne, moving closer to the Magistrate. She glances at the Lady Rennar, and offers her a faint smile.

Durnik looks over at Narine on the other side of Aislynn. His eyes narrow slightly but he says nothing. His eyes turn back to the crowd, scanning, measuring.

Aislynn subtly switches to a more comfortable position upon her throne, adjusting her skirts. She continues to follow the Trial with sharply gliggering pale blue eyes.

Cronus stands silent surveying the room from his position in the back. Watching everything with a careful eye... knowing that trouble could lurk anywhere within this room... or out.

Gripping her bow within her fist, as if for reassurance, Narine begins softly, "I was invited to the engagement party by the Lady Hune, both because I worked for house Roesone at the time and because I was friendly with the Lady...I had a brief encounter with her brother at one time, and assisted her." She grimaces at the memory. "The night was going well, slight banter, and the Lady Hune and Lord Roesone appeared to be deeply in love. Then, suddenly, Lord Jeffrin here," green, glittering eyes turn to regard him, "Entered with his bloody dog, scaring most of the guests, making a general nuisance of himself, harrassing the Lady Rennar."

Sasha tugs on Xavier again and whispers to him "I followed the queens army in that nite they stormed the house but didn't see much." hopefully she was quiet enough to not be heard by others.

When Narine is called to give testimoney, Rennar gracefully takes her seat, smoothing her skirts about her. She gives the woman a half-hearted encouraging, hopeful smile. Briefly, her eyes rest on Jeffrin, watching how he reacts to the proceedings before turning her eyes back forward.

Jeffrin continues to listen quietly studiously observing the subtle nuances of his shoes...

The dignified Magistrate nods, and lifts a brow at Narin's use of language. "Please continue, Mistress Narine...but without the colourful expletives..." The corners of his lips twitch in silent amusement.

Xavier leans closer to Sasha to whisper something back.

Cronus quirks a brow at the magistrates words... a borderlander *not* using colorful language... that'ld be a first. But he lets his eyes resume the scan of the room

Xavier mutters to Sasha, "... was..."

Sasha smiles and blushes at Xavier's comment then turns her attention to the trial again wanting to learn all she can about the people she is working for.

Aislynn smiles in amusement at the magistrate's light chiding of Narine, and nods to the woman encouragingly.

Narine nods, and flushes slightly, and murmurs, "My apolgies, Magistrate. I will try to watch my words, although with this man," again, turning a hateful gaze towards Jeffrin, "it will be most difficult." She continues with her tale, "After practically being threatened, and ordered by the Queen for the man to remove his dog from the Lady Rennar's presence, he grudgingly did so, and yet continued to harrass the Lady, and her guests. He continued to insult the House Roesone, as well."

Vincenne nods, and continues to listen to Narine's testimony. "Please continue..."

Narine nods, "Needing fresh air, the Lady Rennar excused herself to the gardens, and left in a hurry, leaving us alone to deal with the Lord Jeffrin's insolence. He continued to insist that the Manor was his home, and he could do as he pleased inside of it."

Vincenne simply nod at this, casting a glance around the room at large, before his eyes turn back to Narine.

"It sounded to me much as though the Lord Jeffrin were threatening the Lady Rennar, although his words were couched in such subtlety, that it was clear he was playing the Game thta you southerners so often enjoy." Disgust paints Narine's words.

Vincenne's lips twist into a wry smirk at this, although he does not look unamused. "Scribes, you will strike that last remark from the record." Her turns to Narine and smiles, in a gentle sort of way. "And then what transpired?"

A thin line touches Rennar's lips at Narine's last words. She, herself, certainly does not like playing the Game. She never has. She keeps her hands folded in her lap, watching and listening. Eyes carefully examine those within the room from time to time.

Narine nods slowly, and grins slightly ruefully, before continuing, "The Lord Jeffrin finally left the room, after being practically ordered out by the Queen," turning to glance at the Queen, she bows her head. "The party ended, and as I left, I found two guards outside of the manor, dead. And the Lady Rennar was nowhere to be found at this time, either."

Narine finishes quickly, realizing that her testimony was taking far too long as is.

Aislynn shifts again in her seat, her condition making it difficult to find comfortable seating arrangements for such long times...especially when seated upon a throne made of white marble. Decidedly uncomfortable. She hides a small smile at this talk of the Great Game, and continues to listen, nodding at Narine's words.

Vincenne nods at Narine, and gestures her away politely, "Thank you for your testimony, Mistress Narine." He rifles through some of his papers before him, and says, "Now, in order to more clearly establish prior motive and intent, Genette, an employee of the Lady Rennar, has submitted a deposition to this court, which I shall read from:" He pauss, and straightens out the paper, which looks already perfectly straight.

Narine nods slowly, and takes her place back behind the Queen, looking vaguely embarrassed.

The young Queen smiles at Narine reassuringly, quietly saying to her as she takes her place upon the dais, "You were fine..."

Narine smiles faintly, and bows her head, before straightening, her eyes sweeping over the crowd.

The magistrate now reads directly from the parchement in front of him, "The Lord Jeffrin was 'lording it over' Tiras Lorn as if it were already his. He ordered about and abused the servants, if they didn't come quickly enough for his liking. Furthermore, he set his dog upon one or two of them, and even beat them." He glances up, making sure all in attendence has heard this, and then moves on to the next paper. "I also have signed depositions by these servants, one of which had the Lord Jeffrin's dog set upon him, and one who was beaten rathe severely." He tips a nod to the scribes, "Please let the record reflect this." Again, he casts a kindly glance to Jeffrin, "Again, Sir, you shall have ample opportunity to refute this and present your own evidence and corroboration." He then looks back to the Queen, and says, in no different tone than what he has thus far used to address anyone, "I would like to call Her Majesty, Aislynn Versyr, to give her testimony."

Rennar nods her head politely to Narine, a soft smile sweeping over her lips. There is also an appreciative look within her eyes. Her attention goes back to the Magistrate, waiting for the other information to be passed. A brow lifts delicately as the Queen herself is called. There is a bit of surprise within her eyes. She sits up a little more attentively, curiosity planting itself upon her face.

Narine blinks, surprise also in her eyes as the Queen is called.

Aislynn rises from her Throne and makes her way gracefully, despite her condition, to the lowest step of the dais, where others have presented their testimony. She nods politely to Vincenne, and then turns to address those gathered, "I, myself, attended the engagement party that is in question, and saw with my own eyes the Lord Jeffrin purposefully attempting to terrify the Lady Rennar with this dog." She flicks a glance at Jeffrin, but her eyes do not remain long there. "He also made one or two references about the House being rightfully his, and seemed quite arrogant and cocky, and did not seem in the least distraught when the bodies of the dead Guards were discovered. Nor was he upset when it was discovered that Rennar was missing." She glances around, and pauses for a moment, taking a quick glance at Vincenne to make sure she should continue.

Vincenne ponders this, and as the Queen is about to speak again, he holds up one imperious hand and says, "That calls for judgement of one's emotion in a time of crisis, Aislynn Versyr. No matter that he was seemingly apathetic; one cannot make such judgements based on emotional reactions, or lack thereof, during a time of crisis. But please..continue..."

The young Queen nods, and looks the slightest bit abashed at this, as some light colour rises into her cheeks. "Very well. But it simply seemed quite strange. However..." she continues, seeming to gain back her confidence, "Quite a time later, I was presented with a letter from a source unknown, directing me to a meeting in the woods on the outskirts of town, to which I was allowed to bring only two in accompaniment. This letter promised that if I followed its insructions, I would find out about Rennar's whereabouts....."

Despite the abashed manner in which the Queen actions, this tidbit of information only seems to draw Rennar's curiosity further. She sits forward, on the edge of her seat, and quietly listens, smoothing over her skirts with her hands to rid them of invisible wrinkles.

Vincenne nods his permission for the Queen to continue.

"At that meeting, a strange masqued and cloaked figure coalesced from the undergrowth, and claimed that he...or she...I am unsure as to gender...was workin for the Lord Jeffrin, and was keeing an eye on the Lady Rennar. This...person...said that certain rougher elements had been encsconced into Tiras Lorn, and that Rennar would be murdered very soon if nothing was done to free her." She takes another glance around the room, and her glacial gaze alights upon Jeffrin, "In defense of the Lord Jeffrin, Magistrate, this person did say that the Lord Jeffrin was afraid of these people, and did not want Rennar to be killed." She continues on with her story, finishing up with, "The information this strange person gave me is what prompted me to take the rash action of actually storming Tiras Lorn. And that is really all I know of the matter, Magistrate. Aside from what the Lady Rennar has already testified."

Gripping her bow tightly, knuckles whitening, Narine visibly tenses, and seems on the verge of storming off the dais, her target Lord Jeffrin if the manner in which she gazes at him is any indication.

Vincenne nod at the Queen, and gestures for her to take her seat. He turns to Rennar, "Is there any more testimony that can be presented before the Lord Jeffrin is allowed to refute and give his own defense? Are there any more witnesses to be called?"

Aislynn retakes her seat, smoothing her skirts and settling down comfortably.

"Lord Aeron was present when I was discussing with one of the guardsmen my identity after the storming. Wearing my rags and clothing, I was not believed at first. Nor could I blame them for not believing me with my apperance." Rennar answers, her gaze going to Aeron as she motions with her hand to a head that is slightly bald, and /just/ starting to grow back reddish gold tints.

Vincenne glances around the room, and says, "Lord Aeron Versyr...please present your testimony..."

Aeron looks up from where he stands, off near the window, and gives a curt nod before he steps forward and works his way up to the dias. A quick glance goes to Rennar, and a more guarded one towards Jeffrin, before he begins, "I accompanied the Queen and the Captain-General when Tiras Lorn was stormed ..."

Vincenne nods and gestures for Aeron to continue. "And what can you offer to corroborate the Lady Rennar's testimony?"

Cronus from his post by the door, a guardsman comes in and whispers of some matter that most likely needs urgent attention considering the interuption this might have caused. Cronus gives a scan about the room, sharing glances with the Queen, Durnik, and others indicating his untimely but necessary departure, then he himself departs through the door swiftly but quietly so as to disturb only those in the bery back of the room.

Cronus heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

Aeron's testimony is terse and matter of fact, "It's as she said. A File Leader in the Queen's cavalry was speaking with her when I brought Lord Jeffrin out of the house. Her condition was ... wretched."

Rennar's eyes slide over to Aeron as he starts to speak. She presses her lips together, watching and waiting for the testimony.

Pitor heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

The magistrate nods, "Could you please describe her condition in more concrete detail? Your idea of wretched and mine are, perhaps, two different things..." he says, not unkindly.

Jeffrin glances around the room, shuffling a bit

Sasha grips Xavier's arm tightly since she saw Rennar when they found her.

Aislynn turns her eyes to the shuffling Jeffrin.

Aeron grimaces at the request, but makes an effort, "Her head was shaven bald, and she was dressed in nothing but rags. I doubt she'd been allowed to bathe in weeks. Her first request was for food."

Rennar's eyes lower. She shifts in her seat as she awaits the explaination. Memory of her own condition flashes over her eyes. She does not raise her eyes, perhaps too embarassed to meet the gaze of any present.

Vincenne nods and gestures quietly for Aeron to continue.

"It was obvious she'd been badly mistreated. I wasn't well-aquainted with Lady Rennar. I couldn't confirm her identity," Aeron continues, "So I asked the File Leader to attend to her, and said we could send a message to the Queen, if she had some way to prove her identity." He concludes a bit apologetically, "I left her there, for the time being."

The magistrate nods to Aeron, making sure that scribes are getting all of this, "Is that all, Lord Aeron?" he asks.

Aeron gives a small nod, "That's all I know of Lady Rennar's condition, yes."

Vincenne nods to Aeron and gestures for him to retake his seat. "Thank you, Lord Aeron, for your testimony." He turns back to Rennar, "As there are no further witnesses to be called, aside from various depositions of persons who could not be present today, I would like to turn the floor over to the Lord Jeffrin, to present his testimony and to refute aught of what has been said thus far..."

Aeron steps down and makes his way back to his previous spot beside the window.

Jeffrin turns to the magistrate. "If it pleases the court, I have hired someone to speak on my behalf." He has no desire to incrimidate himself afterall.

The young Queen seems to lean forward slightly upon her Throne, listening to Jeffrin curiously. She looks surprised at his revelation, but says nothing.

Vincenne nods, "Which is well within your right, Lord Jeffrin. Please, present this person to the Court...." He settles back in his chair in a dignified manner, and makes a note upon the sheet of parchment in front of him.

Narine quirks a brow, and leans towards the Queen, murmuring something in her ear.

Jeffrin turns, eyes going to the door.

Morden comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Aislynn smiles faintly at Narine, and nods, "It is within his rights...Vincenne will do the right thing...."

Aeron's head turns towards the door as Jeffrin's does, and he looks over the newcomer.

Narine turns glittering eyes towards Morden, and they narrow, her grip tightening upon the throne. She again murmurs to the Queen.

Sasha sees the man that she saw at the arboretum that night and tightens her grip on Xavier, maybe to tight.

Aislynn blinks as she sees Morden enter, her masque of Aes Sedai calm and majesty slipping for a split second before she can replace it. She nods at something Narine has said, and looks wary.

Morden comes in from the spot where he had been sitting just outside the door. The cane, which he leans heavily on tip taps as he makes his way across the marble floor. He holds a small leather carrying bag in the other hand which appears to be stuffed full of papers and what not. He quickly approaches the bench giving Jeffrin the subtlest of reassuring nods. "If it pleases the court, I have come to speak on behalf of the accused."

Morden bows to the queen and her magistrate

Vincenne nods to Morden, apparently recognizing the man, but asks, all formality, as is necessary, "Please state your name for the record, sir..."

Morden says "My name is Jules Morden."

Morden sets his cane aside and proceeds to begin digging through his bag of tricks.

Vincenne nods, and the scribes take down the information, "Please present your case, calling whichever witnesses are necessary, and cross-examining any who have been brought before the court thus far."

Xavier turns to Sasha and lays a comforting hand on her iron like grip.

Xavier whispers "It's ok Sasha, come on, the ..."

Sasha looks sheepish and loosens her grip "sorry."

Morden nods. "I wish first to adress the most serious charge which has been made against my client." He looks to the magistrate. "You stated earlier that mitigating evidence had been brought before the court concerning the charge of conspiracy to commit murder. Based on that and other similarly mitigating evidence which has come to light through the course of testimony, is there a need for me to waste the courts time by adressing it or can we move that the charge be stricken?" He looks thoroughly prepared to do this if it should be found necessary

Vincenne listens to Morden, and nods here and there. "Since even the victim in this crime has presented mitigating circumstances, and the Queen herself tells that the Lord Jeffrin had no plans to murder his neice, I will allow that particular charge to be stricken." He glances at Jeffrin with an ureadable look, and then turns his steely gaze back to Morden, his lips twisting slightly, though in what expression is unknown. "That would make banishment, and not execution, the most severe punishment if the Lord Jeffrin is, indeed, found guilty." He waves a hand at Morden for him to continue.

The Queen's lips twitch slightly, and her hard gaze is turned back to Morden.

Morden nods and proceeds. "Based upon the various confessions my client has made to members of the queen's guard, I feel no need to adress the first 2 charges. However I would very much like to adress the fourth charge." He seems suprised here. "My client has been accused of stealing a dead body?"

Vincenne listens to Morden, looking slightly perturbed, but he nods, "Yes. Someone, under the direction of the Lord Jeffrin, stole a dead body in order to pass it off as the Lady Rennar's..."

Morden looks equally annoyed as he turns to the assembled witnesses. "I call upon anyone in this court who can to offer evidence proving that Lord Jeffrin Hune directed various uknown parties to steal a dead body."

Calisa comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Morden waits for someone...anyone to step forward with the requested evidence.

Vincenne replies, "The Queen's Guard has custody of the body in question, as well as the two bodies of the House Guards." He narrows his eyes at Morden, and says, "The Lord Jeffrin has admitted to perpetrating the kidnapping of his neice. Does he no deny trying to fake her death? Which would include the stealing of the dead body? The Lady Rennar testified that the Lord Jeffrin shaved off all of her hair...and the corpse was found with Rennar's hair upon it. Does the Lord Jeffrin deny this?" The magistrate narrows his eyes and waits for the answer.

Accompanied by two guards wearing the colors of House Hune, Calisa slowly makes her way through the spectators, halting when she is finally able to see her dear uncle.

Aislynn nods politely to Calisa, but also gives her an unreadable look, before she turns back to the drama continuing between Vincenne and Morden.

Jeffrin starts to speak but is stopped by Morden who admonishes the man with his cane. After a moment's contemplation Morden speaks. "My client is clearly guilty of kidnapping the Lady Rennar, that much is not in dispute. However the assumption that he was responsible for the staging of her death is pure speculation. Certainly the court has strong reason to suspect his hand in this, but as we have seen by the lack of people stepping forward to present evidence, it does so lacking any sort of proof." Morden looks to jeffrin. "Did you stage Lady Rennar's death?"

Jeffrin shakes his head. "I did not."

Narine narrows her eyes and growls, muttering beneath her breath to the Queen.

Narine mutters to Aislynn, "The..."

Morden looks to the magistrate not saying anything but it is easy to see he is about to move that the charge be stricken

Aislynn nods to Narine's whisper, looking very dark and solemn. She glances to Rennar, and starts to open her mouth to speak, but is interrupted by Vincenne, "Lady Rennar...is there anything you can add to this discussion? Was there aught of this matter of a body that was discussed around you?" He turns his eyes on Jeffrin, as if to say, "You, too, shall be questioned directly."

"The Lord Jeffrin /did/ take my clothing, and my jewlery, /and/ had my hair shaved." Rennar lifts a hand to her head, "All of which were found as evidence upon the scene." Rennar flicks a gaze at Aislynn, as if to confirm this matter.

Aislynn nods at Rennar's words, signifying that these items were, indeed, found in the Hune carriage by her Guards. She looks to Vincenne, and then back to Jeffrin.

Morden awaits permission from the magistrate to speak.

Vincenne nods, and turns to Morden, "Although the evidence is circumstantial, it will still be admitted and considered. Please resume..." he says, perempetorily.

Morden nods. "If it pleases the court, I would like to ask the Lady Rennar some questions."

The magistrate nods, as it is right for the accused...or his defense...to cross-examine the witnesses for the prosecution. "Of course...." He looks over to Rennar, "Please rise, Lady Rennar, and answer Sir Morden's questions."

Calisa starts as her sister is addressed, shoving her way to where she can see her. She says nothing, barely moves after reaching the spot, but leans forward slightly as if about to run forward.

A brow lifts at the Magistrate. She's not the one on trial here. A small frown forms on Rennar's lips, though it eases away gently. She nods her head gracefully to the magistrate, then turns and faces Morden after rising in a single, smooth, self-assured motion. She waits with questioning eyes.

The scribes pause, looking up at the showdown....and their quills are poised to take down whatever revelations shall follow.

Morden comes right up to lady Rennar. he leans forward onto the bench behind which she is standing. "Lady Rennar, in earlier testimony you told the court that a man came to visit your uncle and demanded your death. That is accurate is it not?"

Vincenne listens quietly, his silvery browns drawn down together in a thoughtful frown.

Sasha clutches Xavier tighter her eyes wide whispering to him "that man scares me." in very low tones.

Jeffrin cannot help smiling. It seems Morden is well worth his fee.

"I did." Rennar states point blankly, "I was brought out of my tiny prison, and told to stand before the stranger. He donned a cloak about his form so none could see his features. My uncle had gloated that I was alive, just as he had told this man I was, and that he meant to have his way with me. Asking if it satisfied his curiosity." There is no way that Rennar can forget /those/ words, not when they had sent a shiver up her spine, "The man replied that my uncle was quite clever, keeping me locked up within my very own home. He then further stated that it was time for him to stop playing with his 'meal' and eat it, and when my uncle questioned him on it he point blankly said that I was to be killed, somehow."

Morden nods. "Based upon your rcollection and a conversation you had with your uncle some time ago while he was locked in the dungeons, can you offer the court any insight as to how that mysterious man might have gotten into the house?"

A small frown crosses Rennar's lips once more, "No, I cannot." And in truth, she cannot. "All that I have is heresay from my uncle. I told you, I was locked away."

Vincenne nods at these words, and looks at Morden, "Continue, please..."

Morden nods. "Based upon your experiences within the house and the testimony of others presented here today, how would you say your uncle reacted to this man and what was the ultimate penalty for this reaction?"

Aislynn casts a glance over those gathered, perhaps looking for others' reactions to this turn of questioning. After doing so, her eyes drift back to where the center of action is, centered upon Morden, Jeffrin, Vincenne and the Lady Rennar.

Now Rennar's frown increases. She turns to the Magistrate, "Your honor. I've already testified that my uncle refused this man's request. I don't see what further questioning on this matter has to do with the case against my uncle. Must I continue to answer questions revolving around a situation that occured near the very ending of my captivity?" Aggitation shows in her eyes, though she tries not to let it show too clearly.

Morden points out. "Goes to motive and credability."

Sasha mutters to Xavier, maybe a bit to loud "I don't like him."

Vincenne mulls this over for a moment, and turns to Morden, "The Lady Rennar has already answered such questions...and the third charge has been dropped...Overruled. Continue with another line of questioning..."

Calisa has schooled her face to reveal nothing, beyond too-bright eyes that never move off of Rennar.

The Magistrate adds, "The Lady Rennar's credibility is not on the line here, Morden. She is accused of no crime. Please...continue..."

Rennar starts to say something, but pauses waiting for the next line of questioning.

Morden concedes the point. "Fine, I shall cut directly to the heart of the matter. During the time of your captivity, how much control would you say Lord jeffrin had over events which transpired within the house?"

Aislynn lifts a pale golden brow at this, her features schooling themselves into pensiveness as she waits expectantly for the answer.

Narine narrows her eyes, and leans towards the Queen, murmuring to her.

In the back, the Shienaran looking man is scowling in silence.

"Over my captivity?" Rennar answers with the question, "I'd say surpreme control. He watched over me for the most part, and when he could not be there, another watched over me of his own chosing. The men he had hired previosuly, except for one, all dropped out when the Queen's Guards surrounded the building. I cannot say that there were any other motivations behind my Uncle's actions, for I do not know his mind, nor can ever know his mind. The only time his control might have faltered was near the end of my captivity, when this stranger appeared. Up until that time, /he/ was in control, completely." At least in Rennar's mind he was.

Vincenne interrupts, "Lord Jeffrin, let us get to the heart of the matter. Who was this stranger?"

Morden frowns. "You misunderstand me dear. I did not ask what control he had over you, I asked what control he had over the events which transpired within the house." He looks to the judge as he interupts and then to Jeffrin.

Vincenne nods to Morden's question, "Let the Lord Jeffrin answer -my- question first, Morden...."

Jeffrin looks to the judge. "He never gave me his name nor did he answer me when I asked him what house he served."

Sasha grips Xavier even tighter with both hands waiting to hear the answer to that question mutters "That seems strange." muttering in his ear.

Vincenne shakes his head, looking disbelieving. "Come, come, Lord Jeffrin. Do you expect me to believe that you allowed some boogeyman to have the run of Tiras Lorn, without even knowing his name or of which House he was? You say this man was a Noble? From which country? Why was he in your home, anyway? Did you send for this person? Come, come...answer the court."

Jeffrin grits his teeth. "I allowed no buggey men into my house. As I said I have no idea who he was or where he was from, but sermise he was noble. As to why I would be so foolish as to not insist on his name, the person standing on the other side of my door with the crossbow might have had something to do with it."

"That is not what I asked, Lord Jeffrin. Did these people simply bust in and takeover the run of the House? Or were they invited?" Vincenne asks again, impatiently.

Morden smiles as Jeffrin adds fuel to his case

Jeffrin says "They did not bust in. Besides the visit I had no knowledge of their presence...but obviously, they were there, or were those assassins just a figment of everyone's imagination?"

/My/ house? Calisa's eyes, angry now, fly back to Jeffrin.

Vincenne shakes his head, "Still you persist in evading the question. How came these men to be there in the first place? They did not bust in, as thieves in the night, and you say you did not invite them. Therefore, how came they to be there?"

A thought, or perhaps a memory, seems to stir within Rennar. "Might I be permitted to speak...?" She comments quietly.

The Magistrate nod to Rennar, "Yes, of course. -Someone- had better shed some light on this subject...."

Jeffrin shrugs. "I haven't a clue how they got there. I hired new servants, witnesses report that the assasins were dressed on occassion as servants. Maybe that would explain it."

Vincenne shakes his head, "NO...it does not explain it, not to my satisfaction. And I caution you to cease being so flippant, Lord Jeffrin." He look to Rennar, "Please, Lady Rennar...what can you offer on this?"

Morden scratches his chin and looks to Rennar. Whatever she has to say it is clear that Morden intends to put a stop to this...attempt to side track his case by the judge.

"The man was there because he felt the Queen's reign weak. He had wanted Lord Jeffrin to kill be because I was next in the line for succession." Not a large pulically known fact, "He said that her reign was coming to a rapid end. He was shadowed most of the time, though I saw his face briefly when he came into the light. He was not of Andoran blood, that I could tell, but that of another nation. However what bearing this all has upon the case of Lord Jeffrin kidnapping me and taking over House Hune I cannot understand." Rennar replies, her words calm and carefully spoken. "Lord Jeffrin's actions came before this man arrived upon the scene. There is motive enough already presented, with the past and the present. My Lord uncle used to put dead animals and other things into our beds when we were children, to frighten and scare us. A fact that my father wanted to keep very much hidden, to keep within the family. That sort of information one does not tend to wan to leak. Calisa or Kelric can verify those actions."

Morden frowns...He didn't know that.

Calisa nods, head swinging back to Rennar.

Vincenne does not look very surprised by Rennar's news: apprently he is among the priviledged few who know about Rennar's status has having the next best claim to the Lion Throne if ever anything happens to Aislynn...or that of her unborn child, if it be a girl. "It has nothing to do with it, except, perhaps, to serve as a warning to our good Queen." He turns to look at Morden, and intones, "The remaining three charges will stand as is. If you have aught else to say, Morden, in behalf of Jeffrin, do so now before I deliberate and give the verdict."

The young Queen, however, shows clear shock as this news registers with her. She grips her pristine white skirts in a nervous gesture, but does not tear her eyes away from the proceedings between Vincenne and Morden.

Narine narrows her eyes, and takes a protective step closer to the Queen, her hand gripping more tightly on her bow.

Morden nods and looks to he judge in such a way that communicates to the man that his railroading of Morden's case was improper and he knows it. Morden takes it all in stride though. "Based upon evidence presented here in court by both the Queen and the Lady Rennar, as well as Jeffrin's own testimony to the guard, it can be assumed that at some point...jeffrin lost control of the events which transpired within his house. These people, whoever they were, were very powerful, powerful enough to threaten a queen, certainly powerful enough to influence the actions within his house. Jeffrin has stated he is innocent of the crime of staging this and given the influence of these other characters, it is not too much of a stretch to assume that he is telling the truth. it was them who wanted her dead afterall. The evidence presented against my client on the 4th charge is purely and utterly circumstancial.

Aislynn seems to take solace and comfort from Narine's more protective stance, as she visibly relaxes when the woman steps closer to her, relinquishing her death's grip upon her skirts.

Calisa pales; after Aislynn and Rennar would come...her. Not a comfortable thought.

Vincenne takes a few moments to consider this demand, and after several moments of silence, he nods in acquiesence to Morden. "Very well, Morden. The fourth charge shall be dropped due to no clear evidence showing the Lord Jeffrin taking a body...and because of the other evidence presented both by yourself, the Lady Rennar, and the Lord Jeffrin." He narrows his eyes somewhat, and asks, "Is there anything else in relation to the remaining two charges: kidnapping and illegal interference with inheritance?"

Sasha moves even closer to Xavier her eyes narrow as she listens to the man she doesn't trust, her grip tightens again as she nearly ends up in Xavier's lap from her visible upset over all the goings on.

Aislynn leans somewhat closer to Narine and murmurs quietly to her, She mutters to Narine, "... something... air...I can feel... do not... the last we shall... this...Succession...matter...."

Morden nods. "just a brief note. It is no secret that the Lady Rennar is a popular woman among the people and that there have been calls for Lord Jeffrin's head. I realize you are well aware of Andoran law however I feel the need to point out for the record that there is no president for execution based upon the standing charges." That said, Morden steps back behind the accused.

Narine nods slowly, her gaze hardening, as she responds softly to her, She mutters to Aislynn, "I... air,... You have... fear,... person... to... return more fiercely..."

Seeing how distressed Sasha is becoming, Xavier lays a protective arm around her shoulders.

Aislynn nods to Narine's words, looking slightly worried still, and returns her attention to the wrapping up of the trial.

Vincenne nods to Morden, "Yes...as has been stated before you made your entrance." He rises from his 'desk' upon the dais, and takes the notes that he has been carefully making, and says to the crowd at large. "I shall take my leave for the nonce to deliberate. I shall return, and pass judgement upon the Lord Jeffrin Hune." With that, the dignified fellow takes an almost martial walk down the enter aisle, and leaves the room, the two scribes remaining at their stations, though they put down their quills.

Sasha shakes her head "no I wish to see the end of this, thank you anyway" yet she does not move from her closeness to Xavier seeking security.

Calisa steps forward once Vincenne has passed, towards Rennar.

Aislynn rises from her seat, and walks around the dais a bit, seemingly needing to stretch her legs from such a long term sitting.

Rennar watches as the Magistrate leaves the room. She remains seated in front of the others, still not really looking up after the description of her appearance. Hands are neatly folded before her, within her lap, though fingers do occassionally pick at some thread here or there.

Morden pats Jeffrin on the shoulder. "Well it is out of my hands now. We got 2 out of 4 and that ain't bad. Next time you keep your mouth shut when they come to interrogate you and maybe we can do better." He smiles and picks up his carrying bag and cane. "Good luck to you Jeffrin." That said he prepares to leave.

Jeffrin grunts an acknowledgement

Quietly, "Rennar?" Calisa directs a quick glare Modren and Jeffrin's way, then looks back to her sister.

Rennar does look up when she hears Morden's voice once more. Carefully, eyes follow him, hidden within them some sort of knowledge about the man. She blinks slightly at Calisa's words, a brow lifting, "Aye...?" It takes her a moment to register who it is, eyes softening somewhat, though in a very reserved manner, toward her sister. She seems closed and distant.

After taking her small stroll around the dais, Aislynn once again returns to the Lion Throne, smoothing her skirts before she sits. She continually looks at the door, seeming to get a bit antsy for the return of Vincenne.

Sasha looks to Xavier "Whats that man mean Xavier the next time? Seems funny." she did not lower her voice this time but speaks in normal tones.

Even from the back Ealam can recognise the 'thread picking' of Rennar's hands. But what he's more interested in, is the reactions of the others. Mental note to self. Find out a bit more about this Morden fellow. Several very interesting relationships have been evident during the time he has spent seated in the back. All in all, time well spent.

Morden speaks as though he already knows what the verdict is going to be. "I shall see to it that the bill for this affair is forwarded to whatever locality you find yourself displaced to." He salutes jeffrin with his cane. "Have a good day." That said he makes his way out of the court room cane tip tapping annoyingly against the cold white marble of the floor as he goes.

Rennar does look up when she hears Morden's voice once more. Carefully, eyes follow him, hidden within them some sort of knowledge about the man. She blinks slightly at Calisa's words, a brow lifting, "Aye...?" It takes her a moment to register who it is, eyes softening somewhat, though in a very reserved manner, toward her sister. She seems closed and distant.

Sasha glares at the man with the cane as he leaves.

Aislynn watches Morden's back, her glacial blue eyes glittering sharply, as he leaves.

Morden stops for a moment, leaning on his cane as he examines the shienarian. he does not loider long though and proceeds to leave the room

Morden heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

Xavier turns to reply to Sasha, his voice coming to normal levels also as Morden leaves. "I don't know what he meant. I am a little worried about our Lady though - this ordeal seems to have taken its toll on her - as well as my arm." He grins slightly at the last addition, but his eyes still contain worry.

Calisa takes another step, restrained both by the place and by the same uncertainty that had gripped her last time. "I...how have you been..."

"Fine." Rennar answers, a short reply. Ever as reserved as before. "And you, sister?" Something hides behind her eyes, though nothing that can be discerned.

Sasha looks down realizing the grip she has on Xaviers arm and letting go smoothing the material "sorry" she says innocently "I don't like people that treat Lady Rennar bad she is really nice."

The shienaran looking man strokes his chin and watches the back of Morden as he leaves from his seat in the next to the last row. Curious to be singled out for a stare like that. His jawline hardens slightly, as he waits for the verdict to be returned, and contemplates warning his guardsman to be more on alert. Perhaps hiring a second man.. hmm.

Calisa says nothing, just shakes her head as eyes fill with hurt. Finally, curtly, "I am well. Now. I will see you back at Tiras Lorne, sister?"

"Perhaps not right away, though you may." Rennar responds quietly.

After almost two hours (necessary time lapse, because I have to go), Vincenne returns, carrying a sealed parchment scroll in one wrinkled, but strong, hand. He walks in a stately fashion up the red-carpeted walk in the center of the Grand Hall, and mounts the dais, bowing before the Queen. When he rises, he turns to face the crowd, and says, with the utmost solemnity, "I, Vincenne al'Daanan, by the power vested in me by the Queen of Andor, hereby pass judgement upon the accused, the Lord Jeffrin Hune. His testimony has been heard, as well as the accusations against him. Depositions from those who could not be here today--which were also made available for the Lord Jeffrin to refute--have been taken into consideration. All has been done according to the Queen's Writ." According to the formalities of the nation of Andor, Vincenne unfurls the scroll, and prepares to read its contents to those gathered.

Rennar looks away from Calisa and back to the Magistrate as he makes his presence known once more nad starts to pass judgement.

Sasha grips Xavier again as Vincenne reads.

Aislynn leans forward upon her Throne, anxiously awaiting the verdict.

Daric comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

The Grand Hall is full of people. Presiding at the front of the room is the Queen and the Magistrate. Lady Rennar and Lord Jeffrin are at opposite sides of teh room in front of the presiding members. Two scribes scibble away with quills, taking down al that is being said.

Jeffrin waits....

Daric enters the Grand Hall unobtrusively, attempting to keep his footsteps quiet. The blond blue eyed lordling lingers amongst the columns, eyeing those present.

"For the initial count of Kidnapping, I find the Lord Jeffrin guilty." Vincenne pauses to look around the room before continuing. "The customary punishment for this crime ranges from imprisonment, to restitution to involuntary servitude. However, because of the humiliation that the Lady Rennar sustained at your hands, Lord Jeffrin, I am hereby sentencing you to a public flogging, to take place immediately." He casts a glance around the room, and then returns his eyes back to the parchment, in order to continue with his verdicts.

Rennar remains passive and quiet, eyes glued to the Magistrate currently. She nods in satisfaction at the first verdict, eyes curiously awaiting the next.

Jeffrin looks TRULY horrified by that idea and even more so by its impending reality

Sasha tugs on Xavier "he should get more than that, made to wear a dress and be Lady Rennar's maid after the flogging."

Xavier says "Not a bad idea, but then you'd be out of a job, wouldn't you?""

Vincenne continues in dignified tones, "For the second, and final charge of illegally interfering with inheritance, I find the Lord Jeffrin guilty. Again, because of the heinousness of the treatment the Lady Rennar sustained, and because I fear that this man may yet get up to some mischief, I hereby sentence the Lord Jeffrin Hune to Banishment, upon Pain of Death, to be effective directly after the flogging." He nods peremptorily to the crowds gathered, and turns to offer the Queen a courtly bow, and descends the dais, nodding to a hooded Queen's Guardsman who inconspicuously followed Vincenne in, but who remained near the entrance, until needed. Which it would appear he is, indeed called for now.

Aislynn lifts a brow at these verdicts, but does not look displeased. She watches Vincenne depart, and then turns to look at the hapless Vincenne.

Sasha shakes her head "no that house is big enough for lots of maids."

Rennar's eyes then go to the hooded man, a brow lifting in a bit of curiousity at that. She does nod satisfactorily at the second verdict as well. This was what she had personally asked the Queen for, bearing no true ill will toward Jeffrin.

Shaking his head at the second verdict, Daric's lips compress as he places his hands behind his back.

The hooded Guardsman, wearing a nondescript Queen's Guard uniform, his head hooded in a deep black hood with a face covering, walks slowly down the aisle. In his hand, he carries a whip with many lashes, each one ending with a cruelly barbed metal tip.

Sasha shudders at the hooded man and jumps on Xaviers lap shaking her eyes wide at his appearance and at the whip.

Jeffrin goes wide eyed...this is a man who has been pampered all his life...Sure he's had a billion peons whipped and beaten but the reality of it is not something he has ever contemplated...until now

The Guard walks slowly towards Jeffrin, looming over him. In a gruff, baritone voice, he says, loud enough for the entire room to hear. "Drop your pants," He holds the whip loosely in his hands.

The young Queen cannot help but stiffen somewhat at the sight of the punisher arriving on the scene. But she seems to steel herself for what is to come. A Queen cannot blindly watch justice administered in her name and then turn her eyes away from the unpleasantness of the sentence. She swallows hard, and turns her eyes to Jeffrin. Is there some compassion there, within those glacial orbs? Perhaps.

Sasha sitting on Xavier's lap arm clutching his neck tightly "No, I wanna see this through." she is still shaking strange she would react this way.

Carefully observing Jeffrin's reaction to what's about to take place, there's something of a satisfied smirk touching upon Rennar's lips. She had wished upon Jeffrin the humilation of all that she's gone through, and right here, right now, she's getting her desire. No compassion touches her own emerald eyes, satisfaction is what reigns within them. Her uncle had very little compassion for her, except to spare her life. A rat, she was to him.

The Guard adds slowly, "And remove your shirt, as well."

Daric's expression freezes into place as the guard gives his command. His eyes narrow slightly at the spectacle, particularly at commoners present at a noble's humiliation. He gives Aislynn a measured look.

Sasha bits her lip and tightens her grip.

The foppish courtier toward the back, he who spoke up so squeakily earlier in the proceedings, bursts out of the crowd, and takes to his heels, letting out a little effiminate shriek as he rushes toward the door, "-Oh-, I just -cannot- -bear- to watch this barbarity," he dramatically says. As he high tails it through the doors, so fleet are his movements, that his tightly fashionable pants rip as he lunges through the doors. *rip*

Jeffrin blinks. Not quite believing these instructions. "You want me to take off all of my clothes here in front of everyone?"

Aislynn lifts an elegant pale golden brow as she catches Daric's glance, her expression frosty.

The Shienaran man near the back is still, except for the swivelling of his eyes and a faint grin after the suddenly sick courtier. Otherwise, he could be stone. He's seen worse in Shienar in the shadow of the Blight. He neither takes pleasure in it, nor allows it to weaken his stomach.

Only briefly does Rennar's gaze trail after the fop before her attention goes back to Jeffrin, eyes riveting to the man and punisher. Were she to care about her Uncle at one point in time, clearly that care is not represented in her hardened gaze now, eyes hardening like the stone her eye colorings resembles.

The Guard growls, and instead of responding, grabs Jeffrin roughly and turns him around, ripping off his shirt and tossing it the ground, and then pulling down the man's pants, leaving his underclothing on. The Guard pushes Jeffrin to the floor, kicking his legs, so that the man is crouched on all fours, much like a dog, waiting on his master. The hooded man pulls back the whip, and with a loud 'crack' strikes Jeffrin across the back, a long, sliver of blood bubbling forth from the wound. Another, this time the man's skin shivering and quaking on his buttocks. Again...another across his back, and second line of blood forming.

Aislynn winces slightly with each blow, though she does not tear her sapphire gaze away from the spectacle. This is not revenge...this is Justice, and it is nothing to hide from.

Sasha gasps at the sound of the whip and burries her head in Xaviers shoulder. Sasha is shaking as tears flow suddenly she runs out of the courtroom.

Sasha heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

Xavier heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

Jeffrin howls out...louder and louder after each lash. He's pretty much a wimp afterall...frailty being something he always claimed as a virtue. Again he screams and screams and screams until finally he starts to become num to the pain and his howls grow quieter...perhaps not because it no longer hurts but because he lacks the energy to yell any louder.

In Daric's eyes, this is barbarity in its worst form, especially practiced on one who is noble and set apart from others. He crosses his arms as he watches the flogging taking place, a vain wish lingering in his mind that the headsman might still be summoned.

The hooded guard continues unmercillesly, despite gasps and screams from the faint-hearted. The Guard remains stoic, and continues with his lashing, leaving a long, thin line of blood from each motion with the whip. Crack! Crack! Fifty lashings, all told, which lashing enounced before. The Guard steps away from Jeffrin, and lifts a leg, as if to kick the downed man in the ribs, but decideds against such an action. Jeffrin's back and legs are sticky with blood, and red beyond the worst sunburn.

Barbarity, however, is what is called for in this situation. Rennar looks down at her own hands, unclasping them. A finger trails faintly over the tiny scars there, half infected at one point by shards of glass festering in them for a few days before they were allowed to be cleaned. Her eyes never leave Jeffrin, not entirely. Her cold, hard gaze rests on the man. She is not heartless, but in this matter, justice /is/ being met, whether before noble or commoner. Jeffrin long since gave up his right to any form of nobility.

Jeffrin does not need any help falling. he collapses on his own...likely he will need a few days to recover from this before he can be banished...

Ealam finds himself staring across the top of numerous heads in front of him, not at the man now receiving the law's decree, but at the Queen. Impressive control, for a woman. Even for an Aes Sedai.

Aislynn lifts her chin stubbornly, drawing forth all of her not inconsiderable strengths as both Queen and Aes Sedai to see her through this decidedly unpleasant task. Her face takes on the frosty tinges of icy expressionlessness, and her eyes do not tear themselves from the howling Jeffrin. When it is finally finished, she nods to two nearby Guardsmen, and says, crisply--the sound of frozen water falling from a high, cold place, "Take Jeffrin..." no more honorific is given now that the man has been banished and stripped of all of his Andoran rights, "...and clean him up. Supply him with a horse, clothing, and food enough for a considerable journey. He may, while recovering somewhat, sleep in the dungeons, as is fit. In two days' time, see him to the city gates. In which direction, is up to him."

The Queen adds, as the Guards start forward to lay hands upon the man, "He is -not- to be left alone even for the hundredth part of a second. See to it."

Rennar gives a brief nod of her head. Satisfaction met that the punishment fit the crime. She smiles wanly at Aislynn, then rises from her seat. She still watches Jeffrin in a reserved manner, not letting too much show of her true feelings.

Aislynn rises from her Throne, as the Guards are taking up Jeffrin, and smoothes her skirts, her head held high in stately elegance, nothing about her (unless to a very practiced eye) giving away the emotions that are now enveloping her. Two Guards escort her down the aisle, and she sweeps coldly along, her velvet skirts making the slightest swishing noise against the silken underskirts. She nods to a few familiar faces, but is more reserved than usual. Finally, she is lost to view as she slips out of the doors, heeled by her Guardsmen.

Aislynn heads down the few crimson-carpeted steps that lead out of the Grand Hall.

Jeffrin is dragged off to the dungeons to rest. Not looking very good at all.

Rennar smoothes over her own skirts with an elegant motion. Her eyes follow her Uncle out of the room, then she walks behind him and the guards. Her own expression is stoic and reserved, eyes only hinting at the emotion within her. Her steps are slow, yet determined, as if needing to see part of this through a bit more than just the trial. There is strength in her, though how long it will last is anybody's guess.

Ealam watches Rennar follow the procession out and then gets up himself to meander out, hopefully unnoticed.

You make your way down the few lushly carpeted steps and into the Entry Hall.