Having solved the situation with Boomba, everyone except for Braka, who stayed to talk with Tolan, and the Guard who accused Boomba returned to Varlon and Aeril's house. Non of them really felt like celebrating on account of both the death of Lyda Nasin and the attempted arrest of Boomba.
"Who is Lyda?" Asked Boomba.
"Lyda was the daughter of a very rich man in Freeport. He owns many business in Freeport including the Seafarers Roost, one of the most successful business in Freeport. As you can guess he carries a lot of political weight." Answered Malin.
"But way did they come after Boomba? The docks are all the way in the East Freeport? Asked an upset Aeril.
"Its because of his political sway. If he says he wants every Dark Elf and other possible threats rounded up, you can its gonna get done. Its a good thing you came when you did, or I would have had to let them take Boomba."
"I was only too happy to help." Then turning to Boomba Varlon said. "You've proven yourself beyond a shadow of a doubt not only to me, but to the rest of the community around here Boomba."
Boomba nodded his head toward them. "Boomba thank you, no one ever do that for Boomba in Oggok." Then turning toward Aeril he asked. "So how training go?"
"Well I did ok I guess." Aeril said, still feeling uncertain about what happened in the arena.
"Ok? What's with the sudden modesty? He beat Braka 5 to 4 in mid air combat training on his first day! Explain to me how that is just ok?" Said Varlon gushing with fatherly pride.
Malin's mouth dropped like an anchor. "Did you say on your first day?"
Aeril nodded his head. "Why?"
"I remember my first day of mid air combat training. Oh my word it was a joke. I could barely stand up straight much less fight. I didn't even begin my first trial run a fighting until my second week, and I was still kicked around the arena like a cat playing with its food."
"Boomba knew boy could do it. Boy is great fighter."
"But it didn't feel like I did it."
"What boy mean?"
"I don't know, it was like I was dreaming. I felt like I was there but I wasn't in control, like everything happened automatically. Its kinda hard to describe. In fact the only real thought I had was watch, adapt, and react."
"Well it sure seems you did just that. It almost sounds like the mantra to a martial arts discipline. In fact - yes it does, that explains it." said Varlon.
"What it explain?" asked Boomba.
"Well as this was my first time attending one of Aeril's training sessions with Braka, I was quite naturally eager to see my child's abilities. At first it was pretty much what I had expected. Despite the awkwardness of it being in the air, Aeril's fighting style was what you would expect from someone trained by the ashen order. But as the fight progressed, that all changed."
"The first thing I noticed was a more confident demeanor. I ignored it at the first , as I assumed it was because he was becoming more comfortable with air combat. But it didn't end there, he slowly started to improvise. By the end I could tell he was using several different styles, including those taught by the ashen order.
Initially I thought he was changing between styles at random, but as I continued to watch it often seemed as if there was something connecting the different styles he used. A superstyle, if you would. Not so much an actual fighting style per se, but something more abstract. Like something that defines a set of rules, but gives no restrictions on how to follow those rules. Do you understand what I'm saying?"
Not really" said an even more confused Aeril.
"Boomba just ogre. No understand superstyle."
"Yes, I think I see what your saying." Malin said nodding. "Do you have something I can write on, I want to see if I understand you correctly and perhaps help these two understand."
"Yes certainly. Here's one right here." Varlon said reaching for a scroll on a near by desk.
Malin began to draw a few shapes on the paper. Varlon's eyes lit with understanding. "Yes, I think you have it exactly," exclaimed Varlon.
"Huh? I thought we were talking about martial arts?" asked Aeril who was by now so confused, he was almost ready to just quite trying.
"Yes Aeril we are, but these shapes will help explain what Varlon is saying visually. Now look at these shapes do you recognize any of them?"
"Sure I do, that's a square, and that's a rectangle." He said pointing the each one as he named it.
"How do you know this is a square?" asked Malin.
"Cuz all four sides are the same length." He answered not seeing the relevance.
"Yes that's true, but what about this one? All of its four sides are the same length. Why isn't this a square?" He askedpointing to a diamond shape.
Aeril shrugged. "I don't know, I guess it is."
Malin shook his head. "You were right the first time. This isn't a square, this is a rhombus."
"How can you tell the difference?"
"The rules."
"What rules?"
"Look at these four shapes and tell me what you notice about all four of them."
"Well they all got 4 sides."
Yes, but not only that. Both of its opposite sides are parallel, so none of these lines will ever meet. Those 2 rules describe a parallelogram, any four sided shape with 2 sets of opposite parallel sides. What is more is that you can further define them. Any parallelogram who's sides are all equal in length are rhombuses, any parallelogram who's sides all meet at 90 degrees are rectangles, and all rectangles who's sides are all equal are squares."
"Ok I think I get it now. So a square is a type of rectangle, just like a roundhouse is a type of kick."
"Yes, exactly! Is that what you were getting at Varlon?"
Varlon nodded his head. "Yes! That is exactly what I was looking for. Now to use it with what I was saying. A martial arts style is a set of methods and ideas. For example, let say I want to create a new style of martial arts that focuses on strength, and landing heavy hits. One thing I could do then is focus this style on kicks. Now if I wanted to focus on the number of attack made instead of how hard the attacks are, then I might want to focus on punches. Do you understand so far?"
"I think so." Aeril said happy to finally start understanding what the whole conversation was about.
"What I'm trying to get at is that it is possible there is a style that teaches how to join different styles together, thus forming a superstyle. One that teaches you how to be adaptable and not what moves you should do. Somehow I think you were using some kind of superstyle when you were fighting Braka."
"Ok, but I don't know any superstyles."
"Aeril there is much we don't know about you. It could be entirely possible that perhaps you learned this superstyle sometime before I found you and before you lost your memories. Perhaps you are beginning to remember your past, or perhaps it was an unconscious act. But I do know, you are at least unconsciously familiar with other martial arts fighting styles. I think now more that ever it is important that we make the trip to Faydwer. That may just be the thing we need to unlock your memory."
Suddenly Boomba stood up. "Boomba understand! Superstyle is like warrior. Many warriors, ogre, Elf, human. All warriors, but is different. Ogre no care about style. Ogre only fight. But dark elf is different. Dark elf sneaky. Always hiding. Like to attack when not know. Ogre always attack when know. Both is different. One is ogre other dark elf. But both type of warrior."
Malin couldn't stop laughing "A good example Boomba my friend, but you're a late."
Boomba looked confused. "Late for what?"
Again, Malin began laughing. "I must be on my way, I have duties to attend to. Come Boomba I'll explain on the way. After all, you do have a shop to open."
"Bye boy." Boomba said.
"Bye Boomba, bye Malin." Waved Aeril.
"Goodbye Aeril, Varlon. Have a good day, and congratulations on your victory Aeril."
"Thanks Malin, bye!" Aeril waved bye as Varlon them out and made his farewells. When they left he asked. "So you think my memories are coming back?"
"Yes I do. The sooner we can leave, the sooner we can get your memories back. I'm sure of it." He was quites urprised to see Aeril suddenly become female. She quickly came to him and hugged him. Varlon hugged back and asked. "What is it Aeril?"
"I just wanted you to know I love you, and that you'll always be my dad." She said hugging him tighter.
Varlon smiled. "I love you to Aeril. Just remember I will always think of you as my child, even if we do find your birth parents."
******
A few days later as Aeril was coming in from patrolling the path leading from the gate to the Desert of Ro, he noticed a guard posting a sign just outside the gate. "Posted all non humans who wish to enter MUST stop and be inspected. All Dark elves, Trolls, Ogres, and the like will be killed on sight, except by special permission of the Freeport militia."
"Can't you read? The city of Freeport is implementing a new security measure prompted by the death of Lyda Nasin."
Said the guard who was posting the sign.
"But don't you think it's a little extreme?"
"The guard turned to look at Aeril. " Wait aren't you the freak? The one that turns into a female elf?"
"Hey I aint no freak!" Aeril said quite angrily.
The guard smiled. "I'm sorry, but according to the new security code, I'm going to have to take you in for questioning."
"What?" Aeril exclaimed.
"Only humans are freely allowed to enter the city. But since no one knows what to make of you, you are to be brought in for questioning. In the name of the Freeport militia, I am hear by placing you under arrest. Guards seize the freak!"
*****
Kryn was walking toward the ashen order guild hall when she saw the streets lined with people. She moved closer to the crowd and asked. "What's going on?"
A near by lady said. "They've just arrested someone. I think it has something to do with that new city ordinance passed by the militia."
"What new ordinance?" Kryn asked.
"The new ordinance that says all non humans entering Freeport must first be inspected along with all of their cargo. Say that's awful funny, the boy they arrested is a human. I wonder why they'd be arresting him on account of that new ordinance? What do you think deary?"
Fear suddenly gripped Kryn's heart. Ignoring the woman's question she pushed through the crowds, until she reached one of the guards that was keeping the crowd from getting to close. "Who's been captured and why?"
The guard looked at her and sneered. "The freak that changes into an Elf is being brought in for questioning."
"Questioning? About what?" she demanded incredulously.
"Look lady. I don't know why, I don't really care either. That things a menace. No one knows what he is, you don't even know if its a guy or a girl. I say they should get rid of all the freaks. Freeport is a human city, why can't those dumb Elves and dwarves stay in their own cities? Its bad enough we got you half breads, but at least your part human. Anyway get going before I decide to take you in next."
Kryn was sorely tempted to give in to her anger and give him a piece of her mind, but she knew she couldn't. She had to help Aeril somehow and getting arrested herself was not going to help. Unfortunately she didn't know what to do or how she could help. With no ideas forthcoming, she decided to do the only thing she could. She began running past the crowd and toward her original destination. She would warn his father, he at least might be able to do something. Reaching the door, she began knocking loudly.
The door opened and one of the monks inside opened the door. "Yes? Can I help you?" He asked calmly.
"Yes! Get Varlon here and quick! Tell him it's about Aeril! Hurry!"
The monk left quickly and within a minute Varlon was at the door. "Kryn! What is it? Where is Aeril? What's happened?" He asked with growing concern.
"Its Aeril, he's been arrested!" She said while still trying to catch her breath from the run.
"Arrested?" he said incredulously. "On what charges?"
"I'm not sure exactly. Its something about a new law or something. I didn't know what to do. They were marching him through the city like some kind of criminal. I came straight here, I didn't really know what else to do?"
"What new law? I haven't heard anything about a new law!"
"I don't know, all I know is that it targets non humans."
"Well I don't know what's going on, but I intend to find out. Kryn you stay here, I'll be back soon."
"No way! I want to know what's going on too." She said resolutely.
"I know you do, but it may not be safe for you there. If they're arresting Aeril for being part Elf, they may arrest you too."
"But I - " She sighed. "Ok, but hurry. Please."
"Don't worry, I will. Just hang on tight, I'll be back soon." He said while quickly ran towards the milita building.
Kryn walked over to the theater to wait. Her mind was a storm of worry and anger. She felt so helpless. She wanted to do something, but what? What could she do? Nothing. she wanted to lash out, to vent her anger on those intolerant, small brained idiots who hated others because they were different.
Not being able to stand it anymore she stood up and screamed out her frustration. Some of those passing by looked at her strangely, but continued walking. She was about ready to head over to the militia building herself when Varlon came around the corner. "Varlon! What is it? What's going on?"
She could see the many emotions running across his face. He sighed deeply to compose himself and said. "They're holding him in the prison on the grounds that he could be a threat to the peace of Freeport. A hearing has been scheduled for him next week, but until then, he is to remain in prison.
"Prison!" She asked in shock and horror. "But why? He hasn't done anything wrong! How can they arrest him for being part Elf. A good percentage of Freeport are either part Elf themselves or some how related to someone who is. Why only him! Its not fair, its just not fair." She slumped down to her knees as it all just became to much for her to handle.
Varlon walked up to the girl. "I know its unfair and wrong, but don't worry. We'll get him out. I plan on challenging the militas authority to make an ordinance like this without the approval of the city council." He kneeled down in front of the girl. "But first come let's go see Aeril."
Kryn blinked in surprise. "You mean in prison? Would that be allowed?" She asked trying to keep merely curious, but failing to keep the excitement out of her voice.
"Of course! The prison is run by the Steel Warriors. They try to stay out of the city politics, preferring instead to concentrate on the cities defense
Together they walked toward the prison. Past the arena where the same crowd that now branded him a threat, cheered wildly at his victory. As they approached the doors to the prison, they were met by a soldier guarding the door. The guard quickly inspected them for any weapons and opened the door for them.
Inside was another guard who asked them who they wanted to see, and escorted them through the dark hallways to his cell. Aeril's cell was the last one in his cell block. The guard sat in a chair at far corner of the room. Far enough to give them a bit of privacy, but close enough to be able to see and hear them.
The cell was very small, smelled bad, and quite dark. There were only 2 other prisoners in his cell block with him. One was a scraggly human, who by the looks of it had been there for quite some time. The other was a well dressed dwarf, who was obviously from a wealthy family.
They were quite surprised to see him curled up on the floor fast asleep, but oddly enough he did seem quite comfortable sleeping on the floor. "Aeril, wake up. Aeril wake up! WAKE UP!"
Slowly the boy sat up and looked bleary eyed at them. "Oh, hey! Sorry I fell asleep. I was feeling kinda tired after my patrol, so I decided to sleep since I didn't have anything better to do."
"How can you sleep in a dingy place like this? They didn't even give you a bed to sleep on." Varlon asked.
"Nah! Its ok. I don't really need one, I fell asleep right away almost. I've been sleeping since I got here. So do you know why I'm here? Cuz I sure don't."
"Don't worry. I plan on getting you out of here. I'm going to ask Puab Closk to call a meeting of the city council. The milita have no right to keep you here. They're just using Lyda's murder as a tool for their own ends."
"Do you think It'll work? I'm scared of what they'll do to other people, like Boomba. The sign I read said that Ogres, and Dark Elves would be killed on sight."
"Of course it will work. Don't even worry about it. But I have a surprise for you. Guess who came to visit with me."
He moved back and allowed Kryn to step in front of the cell door. "Hey there, long time no see." She said smiling weakly.
"Kryn! Your back! How are you? How was your trip?" He asked excitedly.
Kryn blinked. "How am I? I'm worried sick! Who knows what they'll do you in here. I should be the one asking YOU, how you are."
Aeril smiled at her and said. "Don't worry about it Kryn, everything's gonna be alright. You'll see. You heard Varlon. he's gonna call the city council, and they'll fix everything. I'll be out of here soon, and then maybe we can have lunch together. That is unless you have to go away again or something."
Kryn felt like she wanted to cry. She had come to comfort him, and instead he was the one that tired to comfort her. Smiling she said. "You certainly bet we'll be having lunch together."
Aeril's face lit up. "Great! Cuz I hear the stuff they give you here barely qualifies as food. Thank goodness I'm not gonna be here long. The guy in that other cell there looks like he's been here for months. Poor guy probably forgot what real food taste like by now."
"Don't worry. I don't know how, but I'll make sure you'll be out of here soon. After all you've got another sash to earn."
Before he had a chance to reply the guard said. "I'm sorry but visiting time is up. So say your goodbye's. You can come back tomorrow if you like."
Aeril sighed. "Bye Kryn. Be careful out there, don't get yourself arrested too. I'll see you at lunch in a couple of days.
Kryn reached in through the barred door and grabbed his had. Giving him a warm smile, she gently squeezed his hand. Trying to sound confident she said. "Don't worry I'll be careful."
She moved out of the way to allow Varlon to say bye. He also took Aeril's hand. "I'll speak with the elders, we'll challenge this and get you out."
"Thank you. Tell Braka I'm sorry for missing practice today."
"I will. Goodbye I'll see you tomorrow." letting go of Aeril's hand he and Kryn followed the guard back out to the street.
The guard turned to them and said. "I'm sorry, but I couldn't let you stay any longer. There are others who would like to visit and the rules say only one prisoner may be visited at any time. Come back tomorrow morning, no one ever comes at that time. You can spend as much time as you want."
"I understand. Thank you." The guard nodded and reentered the prison. The two silently started walking back to the Ashen Order guild hall. After a few minutes, Varlon turned to Kryn and asked. "What are you going to do now? If you don't have any other plans, please stop by the house and have some dinner."
"Thank you for the offer, but I think I need some time alone to think about things."
"Very well. I understand. But that's an open invitation. Come over anytime you'd like. Aeril and I would love the company."
"Thank you again. Best of luck with your challenge. I'll see you tomorrow." Slowly she turned away and began heading for her home.
Varlon waited till she had completely disappeared before he headed over to his guild hall and spoke with the elders. He and Braka asked that the Ashen Order challenge the ordinance before the city council. After a short deliberation, it was decided to challenge the ordinance.
Ramun the Ashen Order's representative on city council quickly made her way to the building where it met, and issued the Ashen Order's writ of challenge. The writ was presented before the council. After the bill had been formally read, the council adjourned so that the delegates could confer with their constituents.
According to Freeport law, at least 4 members of the 14 members that constituted the council needed to support the writ of challenge before arbitration could begin. If 4 supporters could not be found within a day, the writ would be dropped. These four members were found with unprecedented speed.
The Knights of Valor and the Coalition of Trade Folk quickly added their support to the Ashen Order. 2 hours later after much deliberation, The Academy of Arcane Science added their support. Having received the writ the 4 supporters it needed, an announcement was made stating the time the council would reconvene.
When all 14 members of the council arrived, the council scribe began to read the formal terms of the writ. "This Writ of Challenge supported by its sponsor The Ashen Order, also supported by The Knights of Valor, The First branch of the Coalition of Trade Folk, and The Academy of Arcane Science does here by challenge the new Foreign Security Ordinance sponsored by the Freeport Militia. If ratified the new Foreign Security Ordinance is to be immediately repealed, and all prisoners detained by this ordinance, including one Aeril child of Varlon of the Ashen Order, are to be immediately released. Furthermore as is standard procedure of this council any appeal made to this councils ruling may only be carried with at least 3/4 vote of the then current council."
The council president nodded to the scribe. "Thank you. The terms have now been read. Turning to Ramun he nodded and said "You may now begin."
"Thank you your honor. Members of the council, a great tragedy has been committed. Lyda Nasin did not deserve to die, and her killer should be brought to justice. The militia was right in taking measure to prevent anything like this to ever happen again. Those things are not in question here.
What is in question, is the authority of the militia to create an ordinance of such scale. The militia's charter grants only the establishment of localized city ordinances, that are temporary in nature, lasting only until peace can be reestablished. This moves far beyond a local peace keeping ordinance to City wide policy. The laws and policies of Freeport falls solely under the jurisdiction of this council.
From there the militia began making arrests based on this new ordinance for no other reason than because they were suspicious of them since they were not human. These kinds of actions supercede the authority given to the milita by this council. The militia charter allows gives them permission to arrest any person caught breaking the laws and policies of Freeport as dictated by this council.
Members of this council, none of those arrested have been proven to have broken a single law. I ask you, what crime did the child Aeril, commit? The boy merely 14 years old sits now in a prison cell for no other reason other than because it is unclear if he is human or Elf. Is it a crime to be an Elf in Freeport? Are we currently in an unsteady relationship with any of the Elven nations of Faydwer that we should suspect foul play from them? What possible reason could the militia have to arrest this child?"
Again I ask, is being an Elf illegal in Freeport? The answer is no. Of course it is not illegal to be an Elf in Freeport. At lest not according to the most recent census that says about 15% of the population of Freeport is Elven. And of that 15% nearly 90% are married to a human, meaning about 14% of the human population is married to a full Elf. Their children the Half Elves make up 11% of this cities population. If you add those numbers up you'd find that 26%, slightly more than a quarter of the population of Freeport proper, has Elven blood. That's not including the provinces of the Commonlands, North Ro, or The Oasis of Marr.
Then perhaps it is because we are on unsteady terms with the Elves? Again the answer is no. The relationship between Freeport and the Elven cities of Felwithe and Kelethin has been nothing but a good and profitable one. Both of these Elven cities have provided a tremendous source of revenue for this city, by way of trade.
"Not only that, but what about the Dwarves? We know from the 7% Dwarven population that being a dwarf is not illegal either. Yet Norgin Drakhar, a member of one of the Wealthiest Dwarven family in Kaladim, is currently sitting in our prison."
"Freeport as a city exists because of trade. It is why Freeport is the largest city in Norrath, there a boat that arrives every two hours on the dot, from Faydwer, Kunark, and Velious. To the best of my knowledge, the only place we don't have an established trade route is to Odus. How can we continue this if we anger the other nations that we could trade with? No doubt the Drakhar will now think twice before making a deal with a merchant from Freeport. As will the Halflings from Rivervale since we have place Gelgin Gubbin, brother of the Halfling ruler Mayor Gubbin, into prison as well."
Members of the council, the milita has overstepped its authority. This travesty of justice must end, else we would be forsaking everything this city has strived for so long. In a city that was built for the glory of the Queen of Love, this hateful ordinance cannot be allowed to continue. Thank you your honor."
The president nodded towards Ramun. "You may sit." The president waited until Ramun was fully seated before turning to Selion, the militia's representative, and said. "You many begin."
Selion stood. "Thank you your honor. I would like to begin by reminding this council of the events that have recently transpired. Within the last couple of months the Freeport Milita has been engaged in several skirmishes. Several by the Ogres and trolls that have come lumbering north, and the Dark Elves who besiege us from the west. Let us not forget the villain Kidzen Gix, who still prowls though the commonlands, despite our best attempts to capture him. Or Dorn B'Dynn who terrorizes North Ro with his band of cutthroats. The tension this has been creating has been increasing over the last several month, but it has now reached its peak."
"By now I'm sure everyone in Freeport has heard of the brutal death of Lyda Nisan, a kin to one of our own city council members. Just a few days ago, in broad daylight, Lyda was lured to the docks with the pretense that the Faydwer boat was arriving. She ran quickly to the dock, expecting to soon see her fiancé. Instead some low life Dark Elf came from behind her and proceeded to decapitate her. Now this beautiful young woman who was to marry next week, can not even be given a proper funeral."
"Her family was denied burial. Her fiancee was never again able to look upon his former bride-to-be, never had the chance to say goodbye. It is because of this tragedy that the new Foreign Security Ordinance was enacted. To prevent further acts of violence, in our own city, in broad daylight, to ever happen again."
"Acts which occurred because we have been to lax in restricting those who enter the city. In East Freeport alone there is more crime than West and North Freeport combined. What's so special about East Freeport? The docks. Where people enter and leave Freeport, as you so eloquently stated before, every two hours on the dot."
"It is clear, as it has for some time now, that something needs to be done. Something to alleviate the crime problems that afflict East Freeport. So in order to do that, we have formulated this ordinance to protect us. To hopefully to bring justice to the Nasin family. "
"Nothing will ever be able to take away the Nisan's family pain away, but at least this goes part way to ensure that this never happens to another of their children. To ensure that this doesn't happen to YOUR children. Thank you your honor."
The president nodded towards him. "You may sit. Now is the time to address any questions you might have. The floor is open to any who have questions. Please proceed in a dignified and orderly fashion, by standing up to ask your questions. If someone else is speaking be patient and I will call on you."
Penrol, the representative for the Knights of Valor, stood. "I find it odd that the milita advocating the increase of security on the docks, when they have yet to assign anyone to patrol those very docks they are now claiming to be dangerous. The way I see it, the incident at the docks the other day could have been avoided. Had there been a peacekeeping force there, none of that would have taken place. The militia's lax effort of peacekeeping has allowed the crime rate to run rampant in East and West Freeport. When the Knights of Valor patrolled those sections of the city, we were able to keep the crime rate as low as it still is in North Freeport."
Azzeroth, mistress of the Dismal Rage, stood next. "As strange as it is to see the Ashen Order actually participating in the city politics, I do have to question their case. As you have so stated, the militia charter gives the localized jurisdiction of area's needing peace keeping. Hence they are perfectly in their right to create an ordinance affecting the city gates, as that is where the need for peace keeping is most needed. The ordinance places no restrictions on those already in Freeport or in the provinces. I would like to see how that is establishing city policy."
Ramun stood to answer the question directed to them. "While they are acting to in a localized area, they are affecting the entire city. To stop a river, one need only block a small section. When others come to Freeport they see it is the policy of this city to harass all non humans, including its own citizens."
Azzeroth again stood to respond. "It doesn't matter what the others might think, the question was does the militia have the authority to do so. By your own admission stated that while perceived to be city policy it is in fact a localized peacekeeping effort."
Ramun responded saying. "That is a gross twisting of the law and charter. The localized jurisdiction clause was not meant to give the milita the ability to affect the whole of Freeport."
Azzeroth shrugged. "Perhaps it wasn't meant that way, but as it is written it does give authorization to do so."
Chalie, of the Temple of Marr, stood quickly. "Perhaps you may have found a loop hole allowing you to make the ordinance, but you have yet to explain the legal authority of the arrests made."
Selion stood to answer that. "Both Drakhar and Gubbin refused to allow there cargo's inspected. It was our assumption that there was a sinister reason for there reluctance. After if they had nothing to hide, why would they refuse inspection."
Jaoeri, representing the steel warriors, stood. "That still does not explain why the b... Child is in our prison."
Selion replied. "The child is an enigma, and therefore a security risk."
Ramun asked indignantly. "Just how is he a security risk?"
Selion rolled his eyes. "For one how can we know that this child not spy?"
Usenchi replied from her seat. "Our enchanters have confirmed the child does not casting spells to change forms. Besides if he were to be a spy, what spy in their right minds draws attention to themselves. Not to mention 7 year old children probably not make the best of spies."
Selion shock his head. "The child advocated the allowance of an Ogre into the city walls."
Usengchi still stayed seated. "Oh no an Ogre! That was years ago! We have a growing Dark Elf population in Freeport, yet your concerned over 1 Ogre that your men keep under watch day and night? Excuse me for not seeing the danger. Unless of course you think your guards too incompetent to handle 1 Ogre."
"One Ogre is just the begining. First he'll want to bring his mate, then their family, and next thing you know, we'll have a growing Ogre population as well." Selion argued.
Agnin, speaker of the 1st branch of Trade Folk. Stood. "The Ogre has lived her for several years now. If it were going to bring its mate, it would have done so long ago. Not only that, but the Ogre generates revenue for the city. He sells his wares outside the gates citizens and travelers alike. The people have taken to him."
Penrol spoke. "Despite all the speculations, the charter specifically says the militia may only arrest someone they witness committing a crime unless specifically authorized by the council or the courts. The child committed no crime, and neither the courts nor the council have authorized his arrest."
Selion sighed. "How can you people not see it. Ok all racial concerns aside. It still doesn't rule out the problem that child can cause. Such as the bathhouses. Where will the child go, the men's side or the women's side? How can we just let him or her or whatever take advantage of those innocent people. When one goes to the bathhouse, you expect to be safe. There is a reason we divide the baths, people don't want to have other people looking at them naked with perverted thought on their minds!"
Ramun spoke up. "You make him sound like a predator. The kids just any normal 14 year old, and for the most part acts like a boy of his age. In fact, as half a West Freeport probably already knows, he has a girlfriend. If I'm not right they've been going steady for quite some time now."
Hapoan, the official speaker of the rogues guild which is official known as the 3rd branch of the Coalition of Trade Folk, stood to speak. "As I see it there are two separate issue's here. The milita ordinance and that kids arrest. I propose we split the vote. That way there can be a vote for releasing the child, and for removing the ordinance. Or perhaps we could square away a comprise."
Selion, Penrol, Agnin, Azzeroth, and Jaoeri immediately stood up began to talking at once. The council president called out. "ORDER! Calm down people. There will be no divided vote. The writ specifically called for one vote for both clauses. Now seeing as how the majority have already gotten up and spoken. Or in one case stayed seated and spoken. The time for discussion is over. Please be seated. When I call you, please stand and state whether you support the writ, oppose the writ, or decline to vote. The writ must secure a plurality to go into effect, anything else will result in failure." Turning to the scribe he said. "Please reread the terms of the writ for the council so we can begin to vote."
"This Writ of Challenge supported by its sponsor The Ashen Order, also supported by The Knights of Valor, The First branch of the Coalition of Trade Folk, and The Academy of Arcane Science does here by challenge the new Foreign Security Ordinance sponsored by the Freeport Militia. If ratified the new Foreign Security Ordinance is to be immediately repealed, and all prisoners detained by this ordinance, including one Aeril child of Varlon of the Ashen Order, are to be immediately released. Furthermore as is standard procedure of this council any appeal made to this councils ruling may only be carried with at least 3/4 vote of the then current council."
As the scribe read the formal terms of the writ, each member began analyzing the council and how it would likely vote. It could be expected that those who originaly supported that writ would continue stick with it. The Temple of Marr could be counted on to support the writ, giving them 5 votes. The Militia and its allies the Dismal Rage, and the 3rd branch would definitely voting against. It had become customary for those three to vote against the Knights and the Temple, without regard for the issue. That would be 3 votes against. The Nasin family would most likely vote against, as well as there political allies the House of Galin. Making it 5 for 5 against. The vote would fall on the outer provinces, the bards guild, and the Steel Warriors. It would be close and everyone knew it. Should a tie occur it would be up to the president to decide."
"Please stand when called and give your vote. "Ramun of the Ashen Order."
"We vote to support the writ."
"Selion of the milita."
"We vote against your honor."
"Chalie of the Temple of Marr."
"We support."
"Panrol of the Knights of Valor."
"Most adamantly support."
"Kanterin of the Freeport Branch of Antonican Bard."
"We decline to vote."
"Jaoeri of the Steel Warriors."
"We also decline your honor."
"Usenchi of the Academy of Arcane Science."
"Support of course."
"Barkin Representing the western provinces."
With a sigh he said. "We decline to vote."
"Farlkor Representative of the Southern Provinces."
All eyes turned to him. This was the vote that mattered. The vote was at 4 supporting 1 against 3 not voting. But everyone knew that wasn't important. The rest of the votes were pretty much already cast. It was this vote that would decide it all. He slowly answered. "After much deliberation, we've come to the decision that we must vote.... Against."
Although no one made any noise the room seemed to echo those words. Against. Ramun hung her head and turned to look at Varlon apologetically. Ramun kept her head down. It was bad enough that she failed but the last thing she wanted to do was see Selion's smug face."
With a sigh the president continued. "Azzeroth of the Dismal Rage."
As if their ever was a doubt in anyone's mind. "Why your honor, you know we're against. Why even bother asking?"
The president gave her a warning look. She merely shrugged not caring. He shock his head and said. "Agnin 1st Branch of Coalition of Trade Folk."
Sighing deeply at the thought of lost profits said. "Support."
"Lanoc Nisan, of the Nisan family, division of the 2nd Branch of Coalition of Trade Folk."
"Against."
"Rein, House of Galin, division of the 2nd Branch of Coalition of Trade Folk."
If a turn over was to be made it would be here. "Against your honor."
"Hapoan, 3rd Branch of Coalition of Trade Folk."
"We vote agai..." He stopped mid word looking perplexed for a minute. "...Support?!"
The president blinked. "Did you say support?" He asked incredulously.
The man who was staring straight ahead towards the Nasin family, nodded his head. "Yes your honor we.. Support the writ."
Selion and Azzeroth turned indignantly towards the Nasin's. Few knew that the 3rd branch was Actually the Rogues guild that secretly operated under Freeport, few still knew it was run by Elisi Nasin.
Elisi Nasin, Guild leader of the Freeport Rogues and mother of both Lanoc and Lyda Nasin, met their glare impassively. She turned to her husband, who like most others hand't noticed the subtle communication that transpired, and put her arm around him comfortingly.
The president clearly surprised turned to the Scribe. The Scribe said. "6 support, 5 against, 3 declined. The Writ has been sustained."
"As surprised as I am by this turn of events it is this councils decision to uphold the Writ of Challenge. Effective immediately the new Foreign Security Ordinance is repealed. Any prisoners Taken and imprisoned because of this ordinance are to be released. The child Aeril, Child of Varlon, whom this whole controversy seems to be centered upon is to be released.
Furthermore this controversy stems from the ambiguous nature of the child's sex and race. It is clearly not an issue that can be easily address. Since the child is both human and elf it would be a simple matter to declare the child a half elf. But that simplicity cause a great deal of problems when trying to describe the child's sex. We simply can not say that since the child is both male and female that he's a half man or half woman. Based on the presented data, it would seem evident that the child has chosen to associate himself with being male. As such it is the decision this council that the child know as Aeril be legally recognized by the city of Freeport as being a male Half Elf. This meeting of the City Council of Freeport is now concluded."
Ramun turned happily to Varlon. "We did it! He's free!"
"I have you to thank. That was some performance."
Ramun smiled at Varlon. "It was my pleasure to help. I just couldn't let them arrest him. When I went home to tell my husband about the meeting, Kai said there would be no wedding if Aeril was not there. So of course I had to make sure my girl gets married. But enough this go, get your child out of prison."
Jaoeri walked up to them. Being a half Elf, she was the only non human member of the council. A fact many on the council resented. "I congratulate you on your victory. You must forgive me for my vote. As you know it is our policy to stay neutral in the controversy between the milita and the knights. Politics aside though, I'm glad you won. Id be happy to escort you personally to get your child back."
"Thank you, Jaoeri." Varlon said.
Ramun bowed to them and said. "Well I'm going to go and tell the family the good news. Don't forget Varlon, tomorrow we're having a wedding rehearsal."
"Aeril and I wouldn't miss it. Again thank you so much."
After Ramun had left Jaoeri escorted him to the prison. Speaking to the guard once she arrived she said. "The city council has authorized the release of all person held because of the Foreign Security Ordinance. Begin releasing the prisoners. There records are to be wiped clean of this incident. I will personally escort him to get his son."
The guard nodded and left quickly to do as he was told. Jaoeri led them straight to Aeril's prison block, and was quite surprised to see a young Half Elf girl there talking to the prisoner in question. "Is she the girlfriend? He asked Varlon.
"That's her." He said in an amused voice.
Hearing the two Kryn turned to face them. "What's happening? Varlon?"
"The City Council has decided to release him and all the other prisoners taken on account of the militia's foreign security ordinance."
"It about bloody time, how long where you planning on keeping me in here? My family is not going to be happy about this." Said the Dwarf in the adjacent cell.
Jaoeri turned to the guard watching Kryn. "You there, open the cell and release Drakhar." Not waiting for him to answer she approached Aeril's cell. Looking at Kryn she said. "If you'll pardon me, I'll release the boy into your care." After Kryn stepped back, she quickly unlocked the cell door. "You are free to go."
"Thanks. Wow that was quick!" A now freed Aeril said stretching.
"Yes it was. Perhaps a bit to fast. In my 5 years on the council, nothing has ever gone through arbitration that quickly! The 3rd branch is notorious for stalling and delaying the council. Their actions in the council disturb me. Be on guard."
"Thank you Jaoeri, you have been most kind."
"Come let's leave this place." Jaoeri said and began to lead them out of the prison. "Good day to you."
"Good day to you as well." said Varlon. Turning to Aeril and Kryn he said. "I know you said you needed some time alone the last time I asked you, but I just thought id extend the offer of dinner with us once more Kryn."
Aeril gave a pleading look. "Please come Kryn. The guys I was with were poor company. Especially that Dwarf. All he did was complain, and go on about how insulted was. Come one it'll be nice having good food and good company."
Kryn sighed. "Well I suppose. It not like I have anything else to be doing right now."
"Great" Varlon said. "I've already set the table for three, all we have to do is heat it up the food." He said as he bagan to lead them towards their home.