Ducal Court Transcript - 23rd Marpenoth 1357 DR
Recorded by Scribe Edelgarde Spades
Participants:
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield
Grand Duke Eltan
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath
Grand Duke Belt
Narlhelm
Lord Aaron Lyonaler
Lady General Moruene
Lord Fluazifop Dippledop
Steward Nathan Goldenmane
Lord Fenix Wandersoul
General Scar
Arcanist Sirion Te'dwa
High Lady Alyssia Leonhart
Madam Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium
Administrator Gwyneth'tia Starshine
Captain Sinoc Haven
Councilor Alarielle Nulei'ren
Scribe Edelgarde Spades
Emissary From Kraak Helzak
Emissary From Elturel
Lord High Advisor Burdan Hlathiman
Emissary From Iriaebor
Emissary From Amn
Master of The Guild of Foreign Trade Samas Kul
Emissary From Calimshan
Khazark Soni'vaphra Anishtep
Dreadlord Selengil Harkonis
Hidden: showNarlhelm: Welcome to the Duchal Court. Those formally of the court have one speaking representative and one with solely the honor of participating as a court member. The speakers each have one topic that can be raised and nothing additional. If the Grand Dukes wish feedback on the topics raised by each speaker, they will state so, otherwise, do not speak or interject. Are any present here of the formal court that have less time today? We may offer the privilege of speaking earlier in the order if so. Raise your hand if so now. Anyone? If that changes in the occasion, you may approach me with a note later on. We will attempt to accomodate.
Lord Aaron Lyonaler raises his hand.
Narlhelm: Lord Aaron. Noted, luckily for you as a Lord of the Court, you were early in the order anyways. Beginning then with the nobles of this court. Lord Aaron, given your pressure for time, you may speak first. And we will proceed to your left from there.
Grand Duke Eltan: Go ahead, Lord Aaron.
Lord Aaron Lyonaler: Thank you. I wished to bring up the matter of the Undead in the sewers. The Radiant Heart have performed a couple of patrols of the sewers, since hearing word of the danger. Many of the undead have been cleared out, but more and more seem to replace them. I wanted to ask what the Flaming Fist may have discovered that might be spoken of in open court? As well as how the Order, and others with the city's health in mind, might aid in this? If it might please the Court more so, perhaps a Security Council could be called?
Grand Duke Eltan: Lord Aaron, thank you for your service as always and your concern for what is below the city as threat. For the most updated security reports, Generals Moruene and Scar, anything?
Lady General Moruene: Nothing beyond what we've briefed you on, Eltan.
Grand Duke Eltan: Very well. I can just say that the situation is serious and requires some confidentiality for now. I would write Flaming Fist HQ with your specific inquiries on the matter.
Lord Aaron Lyonaler: Very good, Your Grace. Thank you.
Narlhelm: Next then I believe is Lord Dippledop.
Lord Fluazifop Dippledop: Oh yes! I just wanted to say that the Lantan Research Initiative is going great and we have many inventions ahead that hopefully won't destroy the world! That's all! Have a great day Court Friends!
Grand Duke Belt: Solid briefly, Fluaz.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: I see.
Narlhelm: Next is Steward Nathan I believe.
A sergeant of the Flaming Fist approaches Lord Dippledop inviting him not to speak out of turn.
Steward Nathan Goldenmane: Your Graces. I have nothing to bring to court today.
Grand Duke Belt: You cannot silence Dips!
Grand Duke Eltan: We'll see, Belt.
Narlhelm: Next in order. Lord Wandersoul. Speak.
Lord Fenix Wandersoul: Your Graces, I have nothing to speak on at the moment.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Dippledop got to speak, Belt, like everyone else.
General Scar: By Tempus, my prayers are answered. A silent court.
Narlhelm: NEXT Sirion. Speak.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: It must mean we are doing something right, at least.
Grand Duke Belt: You mean a boring court! I love all the words!
Arcanist Sirion Te'dwa: Thank you. Work continues to be about to begin on the Mystran temple's duelling chamber. If and when it is complete, we will pester your graces with an invitation to its opening. Otherwise we have nothing.
Grand Duke Belt: Proceed!
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Thank you for the notification, Sirion. Liia, anything to add?
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: I should like to attend the opening. I must see at the time if it fits with my schedule.
Narlhelm: Proceeding then... Alyssia, you are next.
High Lady Alyssia Leonhart I simply wish to confirm there is a Black Dragon targeting the city, and the individual that they attempted to coerce into acting against the city, has no wishes to, and is safely within the Halls, protected daily from mind and scrying attempts. There are others whom are joining the struggle to prevent any harm from coming to the city, and allies of the Metallics are working towards organizing against it and driving the Black from the city. Further details will be provided in a report to the security council.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: We've been informed of the black dragon known as 'Vuthair', and the fact that he seeks to poison our waters. We are keeping an eye on it, and so far no poisoning has happened. Please, if you encounter this black dragon, be extremely careful. My sources say he is not only powerful, but exceedingly clever. Thank you for bringing it up, Alyssia. Let us carry on.
Madam Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium: Thank you Your Graces, it is an honor to be represented here as Matron of House Divine. On behalf of the House I wish to publically extend our thanks to the Ducal Authorities, as well as the Halls of Inner Light, for granting us the land parcel in the Palace to District to erect our Estate. We hope to continue foster trade and commerce within the Ducal Realm. However the topic I wish to discuss concerns the Polvich threat. An alliance of Guilds to include representatives for House Divine, Phoenix Company, Candlekeep, and the Temple of Torm undertook an admittedly risky operation to discern if an artifact in our possession was indeed a phylactery belonging to the lich Polvich. The operation confirmed the artifact was indeed Polvich’s current phylactery and I directed the artifact’s destruction. If the rumors that have recently emanated from the Upperdark are true that Polvich was defeated then the destruction of his phylactery should seal his fate and vanquish the threat he has posed. Also Your Graces should expect a formal invitation the House Divine Everwinter Estate when it formally opens its doors. Least Your Graces have any further inquiries about the Polvich threat, I respectfully yield my time. Thank You.
Grand Duke Eltan: Where exactly is Polvich located at this time? I recalled this was more of a threat in the south?
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: How certain are you that the threat is passed from this lich?
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: The invitation is noted, thank you, Netanya.
Madam Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium: I don't claim to know Polvich's current location, only rumors that he was defeated and that is "essence" is currently looking for a phylactery that no longer exist.
Grand Duke Eltan: I see. If there is a tangible threat to Baldur's Gate, do inform the Flaming FIst.
Madam Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium: I'm 99% certain, Your Graces, because according to the experts I have conferred with about the matter.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: If it is possible that your alliance of organisations can confirm the threat is dealt with, please let us know.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: That could include threat to the trade lanes to the city as well of course.
Grand Duke Belt: Seems like a problem that adventures are best to solve though!
Madam Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium: I shall Your Grace.
Grand Duke Belt: Adventurers are the solution to most matters. I know though Eltan, you didn't like my proposal to disband the city watch and just have adventurers run the town's law enforcement.
Grand Duke Eltan: Let's not get into that again.
Lord Fluazifop Dippledop: I thought it was brilliant, Belt! I love your ideas.
Lord Dippledop is called to order by the Sergeant of the Flaming Fist.
Grand Duke Eltan: Alright then, I think it's time to move on.
Madam Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium: Thank you Your Graces.
Narlhelm: Next, we have the Phoenix Company. Please speak.
Administrator Gwyneth'tia Starshine: your Graces, the Phoenix Company have nothing to bring up to the court.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Thank you. Phoenix Company.
General Scar: You're growing on me Phoenix Company. Next time let's only invite the delegations that have nothing to say, Eltan.
Grand Duke Eltan: As long as you're still ordered to attend, General.
Narlhelm: NEXT! The Temple of the Shield. Of HELM.
Captain Sinoc Haven: My Graces, we have the Security Council and the Flaming Fist, that's excellent. But I would like to know if there is another way to make the lands safer. In fact, I think that we would, I mean the Houses of Badlur's Gate, for instance, be better by better coordinating our actions, like at the Cloakwood issue. What would you think of this, my Graces?
Grand Duke Eltan: Thank you for bringing that up, Watchknight. As a matter of fact, Scar and I have recently discussed doing a bit of recruitment for the Flaming Fist. These recruits will be otherwise unaffiliated, of course, to ensure integrity. Despite Scar's protestations, we're also looking into recruiting from the adventurers on the Sword Coast. I want to note that this is something still in discussion, and that any who apply for this will be expected to act according to a quite strict code of conduct.
Grand Duke Belt: Yeah, that was my idea.
Grand Duke Eltan: We'll be announcing this if - and when - this happens. And yes, I suppose Belt was involved a bit too...
Captain Sinoc Haven: Thank you, my Graces.
Lord Aaron Lyonaler: I must excuse myself, Your Graces. Thank you for your time today.
Grand Duke Eltan: Thank you, Sinoc.
Narlhelm: Next, is Doron Amar.
Councilor Alarielle Nulei'ren: Doron Amar has nothing to raise this session.
General Scar: Always loyal allies to the Gate. Thank you silent Elves.
Narlhelm: Next.
Scribe Edelgarde Spades: Your Graces, as Madam Netanya already covered Polvich's topic, I wish to add that should Your Graces need a detailed report on Polvich's threat, Candlekeep is able to share the dedicated records. That is all I wish to bring to the attention of the Court.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: I would appreciate one, Scribe, if you would be so kind.
Scribe Edelgarde Spades: I shall have a copy delivered together with the usual minutes of the Court for proof reading.
Grand Duke Eltan: Understood. Thank you.
Emissary From Kraak Helzak: Kraak Helzak has rebuilt from the recent war with Trolls in the Troll Claws. The King wishes to extend his appreciation for all those which helped in the battles. We have expanded our kingdom since, not in small thanks to Bhor Stonecutter- a loyal and honorable kinsman. Kraak Helzak also wishes to let it known that our troops are stronger, hardier and we now have a gryphon cavalry at our disposal.
Grand Duke Eltan: Now that is a sight to see I bet. Thank you, Kraak Helzak. We are grateful for your renewed alliance.
Narlhelm: Next. The delegate of the High Rider Lord Dhelt of Elturel.
Emissary From Elturel: Elturel continues to war with those in the very company of this court. And will highlight again how incompatible we see this with the values of the Lords' Alliance. Whether in this city or Mirabar. But this will not cease our vigilance and resolve to push back the Zhentarim evil from the Western Heartlands for good. Helm willing, see this Dreadlord fleeing in front of his cape back over the Sunset Mountains. That is all. Grand Dukes.
Grand Duke Eltan: Noted. Strong words from Elturel then today. We will take them into advisement.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Noting all factors involved, but yes.
Grand Duke Belt: Makes me want to ask what friends of the tavern think about this one next time I do my tavern runs.
Narlhelm: Next. Unless the Grand Dukes have further reaction? Next, the delegate from Scornubel.
Lord High Advisor Burdan Hlathiman: Thank you, your graces. I am Lord High Advisor Burdan Hlathiman, in service to Lady Ambermantle. First, allow me to echo the words of the emissary of Elturel. The Zhentarim's encroachment upon the Western Heartlands and Sword Coast must be opposed, as is the purpose of our alliance. Grand Duchess Liia, while I have your attention, I request a private audience with you after this court to discuss something Lady Ambermantle wanted me to bring to you.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: Very well, Lord Hlathiman. Lets speak after this court.
Lord High Advisor Burdan Hlathiman: Thank you, your grace.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Now then. If no other allies wish to speak, we have an honored guest of Thay today I wish to announce.
Narlhelm: One more before, Grand Duke Entar. Iriaebor, go ahead.
Emissary From Iriaebor: I speak in the name of Lord Bron of Iriaebor, the city of Hundred Spires, and I want to echo the words of Elturel and Scornubel. Lord Bron looks upon the developments in the Sword Coast, carefully, and wants to remind that Zhentarim were the cause behind our civil war and our previous lords deaths. It was not without GREAT struggles that we have managed to free ourselves from their grasp, but we still feel the aftermath of their devious ploys. A city in chaos is all that these vermin bring! That is all.
Emissary From Amn: Northern actors.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Thank you for your presentation. We will take that into advisement. I now would like to announce honored guest from Thay. Normally, we have only delegation of the local Enclave here of Thay, led by the Khazark Anishtep. They are present today, but in addition, we have THE man who has built the Enclave Initiative for Thay in the west and one, though we differ in many respects, who has earned my respect as a businessman of great note. I announce today with this court, Samas Kul, Master of The Guild of Foreign Trade of Thay, and of the School of Transmutation in Thay. Master Kul, please speak at your leisure. Welcome to our Court.
Master of The Guild of Foreign Trade Samas Kul: Thank you, Grand Duke Entar. Your graces, honourable lords and ladies of Baldur's Gate, delegates from other realms. I come here today on behalf of Their Omnipotences, the Council of Zulkirs.
Emissary From Amn: He has a nice robe, I'll give him that.
Emissary From Calimshan: Big compliment from an Athkatlan.
Emissary From Amn: Platinum.
Master of The Guild of Foreign Trade Samas Kul: Some years ago, former Khazark Kahanak Habdilof made many missteps that harmed our relations, and the reputation of our Enclave severely. To that end, the Council of Zuklirs wishes me to express their deep regret at not having addressed this properly sooner. The nation of Thay wish to offer this official apology for the actions of our former Khazark, and to publically denounce Habdilof as a traitor to our nation. We especially wish to express our apology to the Grand Dukes themselves and the temple of Ilmater, who became a particular target for Habdilof's actions. To this end, His Omnipotence Szass Tam has sent along with me a donation to be made to the temple. Thank you, your graces, my lords and ladies, for your attention.
Grand Duke Belt: Hah! Good! I must say, I have been keeping an eye on Kahanak's do's and dont's for a while- receiving many letters and messages about his villainy. I must say, I am very happy to see this and receive the gift from Thay! This speaks well for our future deals. I hope such matters won't happen again, though. After all, I do care about the safety and happiness of our people!
Lord Fluazifop Dippledop: The People's Duke as always!
Grand Duke Belt: Yeah!
Master of The Guild of Foreign Trade Samas Kul: Their Omnipotences have the utmost faith in our current Khazark Anishtep, Grand Duke Belt.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: Thank you for this.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Yes. This speaks well for our continuous relationship with Thay. The services provided have, so far, been invaluable- but the reputational damage had us consider quite some severe restrictions. I am glad to hear Thay is not blind to their subordinates' incompetence and, some would say, madness. I hope the trade will flow as it originally did- undisturbed and profitably. Should it be so- we may even consider further trade arrangements.
Master of The Guild of Foreign Trade Samas Kul: Khazark Anishtep may perhaps speak more on behalf of this enclave's current goals for trade. Thank you again, for hearing my announcement.
Grand Duke Eltan: Yes. We appreciate the setting of this straight. We want to see more common security with our treaty with Thay and less disasters.
Narlhelm: In final. Two more speakers. Unless the Enclave wishes to add anything.
Khazark Soni'vaphra Anishtep: Grand Dukes, Grand Duchess, lords and ladies, I am thrilled to return the Thayan Enclave to its rightful place after such mismanagement. Our trade goes extremely well, and we can discuss more later, at your convenience.
Narlhelm: One final then.
Emissary From Amn: Good business. Amn has nothing to add today.
Narlhelm: Dreadlord of Darkhold. The Zhentarim. You are next and final.
General Scar: Final is a beautiful word in peacetime.
Lady General Moruene: Sometimes war too, Scar, if you're winning.
Dreadlord Selengil Harkonis Your Graces. Despite the Bloodthirst and dramatics of some in this court. I come to speak only of trade. During the last session held here, increased tariffs was offered and accepted by yourselves. While we have found alternative shipping for most goods and seen much coin into the coffers of the city. Some unfortunately were still waylaid by those now boasting of it as a matter of public record. Put simply, cargo manifests along with helpful notations of the profits your graces would have been entitled to will be provided to you after this court has closed. There is nothing further other than continued assurances that the alternate shipping will be brought into full effect should the situation of hostility continue.
Emissary From Amn: Not a fan of the Network, but well played.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Very well Dreadlord, we will review these summaries of cost.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: Pardon, Lord Harkonis. Clarify if you will what you mean by 'alternative shipping'.
Dreadlord Selengil Harkonis: I am not at liberty to say your grace... Given that there are those who submitted it to public record, warring on us. As the manifests provided to you will also confirm. Suffice to say we have alternate means bringing our goods into the city. All legally speaking and tarifs paid in full on arrival.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: In that case, may I ask you to send us a written clarification after this court?
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Hmm I see. You may direct such matters to me if you wish, Lord Selengil, and I will share them with my colleagues.
Dreadlord Selengil Harkonis: I would most certainly and happily do so if a non disclosure agreement is signed and released. Given the outright boasting of war in this court.
Grand Duchess Liia Jannath: As Entar says.
Grand Duke Entar Silvershield: Send us your terms and we will appropriately discuss it.
Dreadlord Selengil Harkonis: Of course your grace.
Narlhelm: That concludes today's court.
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