(1812) The Salt Well

[Rhodes]

"Fear is Eternal, Mr Pierce. Oathes do not guarentee safety from that." Rhodes retorts loudly without a break in stride, before leaving the room.

Apologies for the double post, Rhodes just can't let him have the last word!

[Titania]

"Ooh", she clapped in merriment at the carousel of emotions that all those talented actors were putting on show. Her head bobbed like a jeu de paume ball trailing each one of them as they mouthed off their almost too perfect lines. The gentlemen had left her awestruck and Circe's fierceness could never go unnoticed. Yet, despite their best efforts and Sir Abe's in particular were duly noted, it was Lady Sera the one to prevail with the best argument and style, in this impromptu contest of wordsmithing. She was probably going starry-eyed at her, the Bright One realized.
"As expected from the Winter Court! To have us cast away our sorrows and painful disagreements in public. And wonderful delivery Lady Sera, always on point", she said almost ecstatic.

Then, she decided to follow her Queen.

Titania rejoins the main thread

[Seraphina]

She felt the flare in Mantle from Rhodes, and looks at him. Her own flowers getting swept up in the winds, a chill going down her back.

There was a moment where she was worried he felt differently, and would speak against her. Which if she was honest, would crush her. But then he agreed that the lack of Oath was strange.
Seemed the new guy was the cause of his ire.

But he spoke the truth. She knew many who would come in a heartbeat if a call was made.

Before she knew it, Rhodes turned and was walking away. With what seemed to be purpose. Part of her wanted to drop this debate and follow. Attempt to sooth him. But she knew that some preferred to be alone when angered. Was Rhodes one of them? She was at a crossroads, to follow or not? But deep inside her, there was a little part tucked away that fear anger in others. It’d never worked out well for her in the past, but she knew Rhodes wasn’t like that. And yet, there she stood, torn.

Then the new guy was speaking again, drawing her attention. Maxwell J Pierce. He had a name.
Was he speaking of fear to Rhodes? King of Autumn? Sure, they all knew fear, but not how an Autumn did.

“We all care for the security concerns of those that are new, and those that are not.” Her sapphires narrowing. "But there is something to be said for how things are addressed."

Rhodes voice caught her off guard, seemed he wasn’t done. But his words true.

This was a mess, and she wanted to be anywhere but here. Why did they have to defend a Freehold Oath?

“I cannot speak to as to why there wasn’t one already in place. I’m not a Monarch, nor am I Director, so it is not my call to make. But I do know I would gladly swear an Oath to any Monarch in this room tonight.” Not just Ingrid. “But I do understand the confusion, and should the Monarchs sit down and discuss it, I have complete faith that they will come to an agreement and decision that will benefit not only us as a whole, but the Freehold as well.” She hoped they would. The matter needed to be addressed.

Sapphires level on him, “I simply built upon what you already said. It sets one on edge when a simple Freehold Oath is referred to as icy shackles. Our society has been built upon the trust an Oath brings. It helps provide us all with that safety we are seeking. It is not a shackle to ask those around us to swear to protect the Freehold and those who reside in it.” It was basic. “I have no issues with you, but the way you speak out about the Oath makes me uncomfortable, and I’ll voice my concerns.” Just try and stop her. “But I think we can both agree to let those in a position of power handle the matter, and move past this.”

It was then that she heard Titania, and flashed her a smile, "Thank you Titania." her angelic voice grateful.

[Seraphina]

And just as quickly as the evening spiraled, it evened out.

Sapphires fall on Maxwell, “Trust is earned with both actions, and Oaths. I believe the Monarchs will do what is best.” And it was true. They had capable and sane leaders right now. Shaking her head gently, “There was no offense on my end, but thank you for the sentiment.” Now Rhodes? That was a whole other matter, but she would not speak for him. It wasn’t her place.

A slight bow of her head, “I do hope you continue to enjoy your evening and the Freehold. Should you need something, please let me know. Or if you like good coffee, give me a call, I have a coffee shop and would enjoy talking with you more.” He seemed intelligent and like there was more to him.

Another nod of her head was offered and she moves back into the crowd.

Sera will move back to the main thread