#earthrunes

the seer not done yet, grips the jaw of the cap and mutters over again, "thirty two horses upon a red hill, they champed, they stamped, they stilled . Gone are the horse, neer to return. Till your next spring, the grass they feed on is burned. Clamp. Stamp. Still"

Almandine is using dross for this, but even then it is draining.

That look of satisfaction is definitely clear on her face.

And defeated and oathbound is Norm. Judgment is pronounced.

And sentence carried.

Coradel lets the moment of silence draw out after the Seer's last words. Then she says, "You are not abandoned, Norm. You are still within our barony, and remain our subject. Seek us out if you need guidance in how to manage your new life." A pause. "Any words from any other?"

Few have anything to say, save one, a comoner, Mr. Gluminski, "with your permission," the sluagh rasps, "May I have one of the teeth? I am collector of tragic items. I have a jewelry box, small but large enough to hold his wisdom tooth. I think a bit of norm in my colletion, would be ideal."

A considering look, and she asks the Seer. "Do you have any objection, Sir Almandine."

"I do not, though I would like one for myself as well"

"Then let it be so. Mr. Gluminski and Sir Almandine, both make your claims." And Norm must watch as his parts are divied up.

Norm is horrified, and others very nervous. As a rule, Sluagh and Eiluned are NOT the guys you want having a part of you

Inish turns "Has anyone else any words in regard to the case and trial of Norm of the Redcaps? Speak quickly, so the Baroness may consider, or speak not at all"

Coradel looks about the room...and if there is no other comment, Coradel says, "Release him."

And he is released

She turns to August and says quietly, "I'd like the remaining teeth to be kept in the Library."

August bows, and goes to collect the rest, placing them in a twist of paper for now.

"Shall I Adjourn court? " Inish offers

"Thank you, Herald, yes."

"At her Ladyship's command, Court is adjourned!"

And folks scatter. It is clear THIS will be the talk of the fief, and not just among boggan gossip.

Coradel remains on her dais, watching the room, but most specifically watching to see what Norm will do.

August waits as the room clears, not leaving.

Norm is limping away and out of the hold

Unless prevented, of course

Coradel waits until he is out of the room, then motions to one of the Thanes. "Make sure he is unmolested at least until he gets off the property." Then to the Seer, "You have done a great service...and paid a price. How may I help replenish the glamour you have spent? A night before the balefire is certainly yours to claim."

"that would be all that is required. "

She nods. "Thank you again." Then she turns to the lawyer. "Mr. Layton, a moment."

Mr. Layton has not left as some others have, "Of course, Baroness."

The scribe tidies up his work space, capping and putting away.

"I appreciate your words before. They allowed me an opportunity to show what could have been."

"You're kind to say, your ladyship. I did not expect things would end well for Norm, but you sought Justice and delivered it. I can ask for no more. I can be a ...vexing man. I am aware."

"Yes, you can...but to good intent, I can now see."

A final nod, and she turns to go to August.

He meets her half way.

the boggan observes the interations between scribe and baroness, and more.

She lightly takes his hands. "Thank you," she murmurs. "That was a timely note."

"Of course." He blinks, speaking softly. "I thought you'd be furious with yourself if you forgot."

"You were correct." Then a deep breath, and a nod. "It is done. And...I think it has had the desired effect."

"I think you handled all of it with strength, and grace. And even mercy." A shy smile. "As I knew you would."

"Good. Now...perhaps it is time to get out of our court garb?" A slight grin.

At this, Mr. Layton has iwithdrawn along with, oh pretty much everyone else

August offers her his arm. "If you like. Is your gown uncomfortable? I'm sure Delores could have it altered...."

"..... oh."

And the Baroness takes his arm and patiently walks alongside him until he catches up mentally...then smiles.

((end scene?))

(Sounds good!)

((*Nod*))