Alfar nods along as Gallows speaks. He takes some more time before answering Gallows' question though.
"Forming a constructive solution is the tricky part here, Gallows. There are two primary ways to deal with this."
There is a dry smile on his lips as he continues:
"The first way would be a trial. However, if Kite initiates it and makes it about Animus abusing his power, he will, in my opinion, lose, as long as the judges are impartial. All the mitigating circumstances have little to do with Animus' decision and it will be one Kite's statement against the four other Thyrsoi who will, more or less, corraborate what I've told you. There is such a thing as Path etiquette too, you know. Nothing written, just psychology and customs, accepted by the majority. Kite's behaviour was very unorthodox and it will quite likely work against him. Another thing: as much as we need Kite, throwing this at Animus right now isn't the best idea."
He takes a breath before putting forth his next idea:
"I believe the best solution would be to take it up with Animus privately. Things can be said and get accepted in a private conversation that wouldn't fly during a trial. But. Kite will need to take a step toward this solution himself. A small step, but a necessary one. He needs to understand how everything at that meeting looked from our point of view and admit that he should have got a clue before this turned into a mess we have now."
There is a small pause, before he finishes:
"What everyone involved needs to realise was that there never was any ill intent from any party until things escalated. I certainly didn't mean to hurt Kite or violate his private space when I woke him up. Triquetra wanted a willing and security-conscious Prvost. Kite had our Path and Concillium in mind when he started questioning Triquetra's decision. Animus wanted a member of his Path to behave and treat others with respect and deference pertaining to their rank. As long as we all understand that, the slate can be wiped clean."
He takes another gulp of milk:
"I prepared to help with persuading the Hierarch and will do what I can to help sort out this mess. Perhaps, if you brought me to the next talk with Animus, I could help?"
Draft this Post
End Scene.
