Of Right and Law

[DoS Archive]

From: lordzephyr@aol.com (LordZephyr)
Date: 15 Oct 1998 17:19:20 EDT

:: Grandel looked up from the candlelit table and let out a sigh. His face looked weary but as he pursed his lips tightly together, a determination stole across his eyes. He stood and looked out the small window of his cramped room above the inn. It wasn't lavish, it wasn't even nice, but it served the purpose - a table to write on and a bed to sleep in. Times sure had been better long ago.

Rhydin expanded through the view of the window. It bustled with activity and looked more alive than ever. But despite the activity, things were not quite right. Perhaps it was the way the rooftop ornamentals failed to glisten in the sunlight, or the cracks in the once new statues, or the ponds around the park, once filled with crystal clear water, now green with scum. Even the people seemed a bit different. Was it that they all seemed rushed? Was it
the color of their clothes - the whites not white, the colors not bright?

He had followed the nights events with a heavy heart. He came to the Arena prepared to watch a momentous occasion, but what played out was not the type of moment he was prepared for. There were many in attendance and the crowd bustled with preliminary excitement, happy to be a part of the festivities. People laughed, they chatted and all postulated on the outcome. But the laughing soon stopped as it became apparent that the Honorable Overlord Dalamar
would not attend. The crowd hushed as Helix entered the arena to discuss the options with Huma. They talked quietly and in short order it was announced- the outcome will be left to the Barons Council for their determination.

The crowd boiled with comments and animosity. Insults were flung forth with nary a care of the thought behind them. "You dishonorable wretch! Coward! You leprous sot, you care not about the Crown." On and on the insults flew, an argument here, a challenge there.

A few were actually concerned with what was truly honorable. "What has become of Dalamar? Something must be amiss for surely he would not miss such an occasion. We should arrange a search party. Don't worry, I'm sure everything will be ok." None knew what was wrong and only a few cared.

What was more of a concern, an immediate concern to most, was the status of the crown. Was it that terribly important at that point in time? Had not Huma's decision to put the matter in front of the Council made it a concern to be dealt with at the leisure of the Council? He did not demand the crown. He followed the law. It was his right.

And perhaps here is the most important point. It was his right.

Grandel ran his hand through his hair. The grey locks near his temples sparked a fiery orange as they caught the last light of the sunset. He took off his glasses, and rubbed the bridge of his nose with his forefingers. He let out a breath, Turned from the window and set himself back down at the table. He wet his quill in the inkwell and pulled a fresh piece of parchment from his pack, then set about writing with as few words as possible…::

The law in an honorable society can be the most troubling of things because it applies to all people equally. The choices for Huma were very clear- reschedule or send the matter to the Council for a vote. He chose the latter, and it was within his right to do so. I make no comment on the correctness of his choice, but understand and agree that it was his to make.

The real issue comes down to how the Council shall rule and it is that ruling which shall tell us innumerable things about those who sit around that grand table. I envy not their position for it is at times such as these that emotions run most swiftly. Once caught in the current it is a difficult task to break free to the clear water. But this is precisely what is required at this juncture.

Perhaps the rub of the matter lies in how the council has ruled in past situations. Can it rule one way for a lesser and the opposite for the greater? Indeed it can, as it is their right.

But is it right?

My dear council, you are charged with a task I would wish upon noone. Your decision will determine far more than who shall wear the crown. I wish you calm, intellect, creativity and sound judgement as you enter the river. Stay clear of the current.

Most Humbly,
Lord Grandel du Lieth Zephyrus