Lenora listens as the remaining Lords speak, remaining still with the exception of her head as it moves to face each in turn as they offered their parting opinions.
"You are both correct," she says after a long moment of consideration, "Naturally, it would suit our family's image to boast an established member in at least one of our offices and it would indeed deter questions from those who choose erroneously to make our agenda their business. However, it is likewise true that placing the Herald as Whip will also incur some judgement. Yet the Herald has also declined the seat of Priscus."
Looking to Aiden.
"It therefore would fall to me to prove I am not a puppet. I am more than confident in my abilities to do so," she says, "As such, I am willing to risk the placement of the Herald as our Whip over the establishment of an impulsive power play. Such an act could reflect poorly on both of us and I do not desire to foul my burgeoning place here, nor do I wish the same for you. With that in mind, the Whip is a position assigned by the Priscus based on their aptitude with maintaining the morale of the clan and assisting in the growth of our collective merit, and, should Whip Jack fail in that regard, I will naturally revisit your placement. I trust you understand, Mr. Whitney."
Then the gaze returns to Jacque.
"Herald, as you have now regained your title of Whip, I must request of you what I did with Mr. Whitney moments ago," she begins, "In the absence of a Harpy, I would like you to make a note of Mr. Boyle's poor conduct. Further, in his failure to seek resolution with me via Prestation, you have my leave to mention his misdeeds to Her Majesty at your discretion. Should she ask for a statement from myself, I will gladly give it. However, given the new laws it is my understanding that I must go through you to establish a meeting if the gesture is required."
Then a pause as she offers a look to each of her cousins. Yes, she had said earlier she wanted the dispute to be private. Yes, she was now willing for it to go public. Thus, she sensed a need to explain the sudden shift.
"If Boyle wishes to retain the Crone's rejuvenated status, the public pressure will drive him to settle our dispute more quickly," she explains, "I doubt his Circle will want to weather the stains."
It was all about Control. Boyle had thought Lenora wouldn't bite. It was time he learned she too had fangs. Just as long as his. Bringing the matter to the public was a cruel tactic, but Lenora needed to establish her right to the title of Priscus early. If this complicated Thomas' Requiem, that was... regrettable, but necessary.
With all she had said, the meeting felt like it was finally coming to a natural end.
"Given our lives these nights, I understand the need to grant each of you time to clear your schedules for our individual meetings," she said, "As such, I will not contact you pertaining them until October. Additionally, per our agreement, we will revisit the placement of Priscus on December 9th. As neither of you have brought up additional concerns, I see no longer for this gathering to burden our nights further."
"I, Priscus Black, hereby declare this meeting adjourned," she concludes, hitting her fist on the table twice.
Good to wrap! What a rollercoaster and great scene!