((Posting in sections based on topic. Thanks to all who participated!))

Introduction and Welcome

FioHelston: She strode into the hall just a scant few minutes ahead of the schedule, glancing around the hall as she did. The front of the room had been set up with a long, oval table and chairs rimming one side. Additional chairs in rows were arranged facing that for those of the public who chose to come. Lelah: She wondered how many of these people were actually on the council and how many were just observers like her. = Dyarhk has entered the room = Brian Ravenlock: A respectful nod, offered to Fio as she entered, "Governor." Icer1978: :;Koy received a nod of her horned head as did Fio.:; Race: "Well should be interesting times all around them." Leans back in his seat. Jolyon Gardiner: ::The bag to the floor, he fishes out the ledger and a stubby pencil, checking the point with a tap of his finger. Good enough:: LdyBelial: ::A warm smile to Fio, already sitting at the oval table.:: Evening Governor. FioHelston: "Good evening, everyone," she offered smiled to those greeting her, and motioned with a flutter of her hand toward the table. "Council members, if you would join me in the front, we'll begin shortly." = Kazzy Hart has entered the room = Caroline Granger: Caroline offered a nod of greeting to Fio as she came in, herself already sat at the table along with Belial. "Good evening, Governor." Alain DeMuer: ::Alain slips in quietly with Sophie. The two knights accompanying them for most of the journey split off before the door. He kisses Sophie on the cheek, touching her arm for a moment, then heads to the front when called.:: = Teagan Rielea has entered the room = Victor Kazon: Removing a small cube from his pocket, Victor pulled a cord from it and the iris of his eye slid open. He plugged in the jack and uploaded a recording; the process was fast, and he yanked the thing back out of his eye rather quickly, just in time to get a breath of smoke from his pipe before the embers started to die. Icer1978: ::Rising onto all fours, she moved neared the table and off to the side where she would stand.:; LdyBelial: ::Bel moves to do as Fio has asked.:: Race: A blink as he's being asked to move positions and rises reluctantly and walks towards the front. LdyBelial: ::A nod to Alain in greeting. Bel stays quiet for now though, letting Fio get to business.:: Zahra Khoury: She took a seat in an unobtrusive corner of the hall, drawn tonight by simple curiosity. Ali al Amat: "Don't you know," murmured a voice in Jolyon's ear, "that's how one gives oneself lead poisoning?" Kazzy Hart: ::Zooms! On in on black bedazzled skates. At least she had thought to throw on black jeans and a shirt that kept her pale skin properly covered.:: Brian Ravenlock: Nodding once more, he moved towards the front as instructed. A glance taken about the room once more. FioHelston: She got settled herself, and glanced over her copy of hte agenda, making a few notations as she glanced up and down along the table to see who had joined them tonight. Jolyon Gardiner: ::A slow look one way and then the other, the voice seems familiar, but he only replies:: That may explain a few things. ::and a soft laugh:: Brian Ravenlock: Settling himself, next to Bel and Caroline, his folio was opened before him. Koyliak: ::a smile and nod back to Icer as she approached the front. For Koy, any event was reason enough to wear a dress. She donned a silver sheen of a sleeveless georgette number with detailed beading along the front ending in a fitted low hip and a hem adorned with a combination of ostrich feathers and organza petals in an arched skirt:: Sophie Rhovnik: ::With a slightly stern frown, she taps the face of her watch at him as a reminder. The frown quickly disappears as she moves to take a seat, crossing one leg over the other before dropping her clutch into her lap.:: Phen Seer Ilnaren: ::She had considered the possibilities carefully, and in the end, it weighed more heavily that what went on tonight might impact the school, and she had decided to attend:: Alain DeMuer: ::Alain very nearly rolls his eyes at Sophie's silent reminder, and loosens his tie a little.:: Kazzy Hart: Yo! ::Kazzy managed to refrain from calling out all the nicknames of familiar faces in the room. She skated to a seat up front.:: Ali al Amat: "Ineed." Ali settled into a seat beside that worthy, adjusting his tie and looking the crowd over. Ebon Ilnaren: ::enters the Hall with Phen, smiling and quietly greeting friends as they pass to a seat towards the front of the Hall:: Lelah: She spotted Alain and Sophie and connections are made. A small frown tugged at the corners of lush lips and she reached into her bag and extracted her Blackberry, jotting a quick text to her PA before leaning forward a bit, dark eyes moving over the faces assembled at the table at the front of the room. LdyBelial: ::Smiles over to Ebon and Phen, but remains quiet.:: Icer1978: ::She stood to the side of the table, tail curled unobtrusively around her ankles.:; Caroline Granger: She recognised Alain as he entered, vaguely familiar with Koyliak as well, though they had never met. Others taking their places at the table were still strangers to her, but Caroline had a feeling that would change all too soon. FioHelston: Clearing her throat, she stood. "Welcome, everyone, to the first of our monthly advisory council meetings. Because we have a lot of information to cover, I am going to go ahead and get started so that we don't keep you here all night." Jolyon Gardiner: ::Closing the ledger around one finger for a moment, he looks up and smiles:: It is good to see you, sir. ::voice pitched low so not to distract from the meeting:: Brian Ravenlock: A nod to Alain, coupled with a warm smile for Koy. = Jake Duncan has entered the room = Icer1978: ::Kazzy and Alain received a quiet nod.:: Race: Finds himself a spot and nods to those on either side noting the one of his left is DeMuer. Sophie Rhovnik: ::Catching Lelah's glance, she offers a flicker of a friendly smile before her gaze darts over to Fio as she begins to draw the meeting to order.:: Phen Seer Ilnaren: ::She smiled her silent greetings, and settled in at the Ebon's side. :: Ebon Ilnaren: ::returns the smile to Bel, and another to Icer:: Alain DeMuer: ::Kazzy gets a small smirk. A fond one, though.:: Dyarhk: :: In walks the Palliator once again finely suited. Though a hand aggravatingly sifts through a black head of hair with a little product in it shows he hadn't quite gotten used to the accompaniment of a little "body." He walked the handsomely sounding dress shoes to the large table. Hearing Fio get started, he mannerly gave a few quick smiles and nods to those he knew as he moved to get himself seated and lastly lend his ear to the governor. :: FioHelston: "I want to begin by thanking you for joining us, and by expressing my intent behind these meetings. While I have my own thoughts about some of the many issues the city deals with on a daily basis, I believe that a broad perspective is needed. That is why the council was formed - not to agree with me on every point, but to provide alternate ways of looking at and approaching the tasks ahead." Koyliak: ::the warm smile returned to her fellow former Minister as she crossed her legs and pulled out a thin notebook and pencil from her clutch. It was a miracle she could fit anything in there:: Ali al Amat: "And you, Master Gardiner." He folded his hands together and focused on the meeting at the front of the room. FioHelston: "This includes the perspectives of those of the public who join us. We will have time set aside at the end of meetings for public questions or suggestions." Brian Ravenlock: Nodding softly, to the Governor's words, as a deft wink was givento his brother in kind. = Valucia Sabet has entered the room = Dyarhk: :: Brian got a risen hand in wave. :: Jake Duncan: ::Jake snuck in quietly and took a seat in the back as to not disturb anyone.:: Alain DeMuer: ::There are many nods and greetings he wants to return and exchange, but the meeting is now underway, and there's a lot on his mind. He folds his hands and watches Fio.:: Caroline Granger: Listening attentively, Caroline withdrew a small dictaphone from her bag, turning it on as she set it onto the table. Taking notes really wasn't her thing - she could get Brynne to transcribe the recording tomorrow. Icer1978: ::A smile to Ebon, before returning attention to the governor.:; Victor Kazon: "...skurs..." Victor smirked, but it turned to an annoyed glare at the bowl of his pipe, as nothing but ash remained. He didn't seem to be paying much attention to anything else, but the blinking red light on his wrist indicated he was recording everything. FioHelston: "I want to briefly introduce the council, but before I do, I want to make clear something that I am *very* proud of with respect to its makeup." Race: Fidgets with his pen and idly spins it through his fingers while listening to Fionna, and yes he's a pen clicker. Lelah: She glanced aside as Jake entered and sat near her. She gave him a warm smile before turning her attention once more to the Governor. Kazzy Hart: ::She flashed Alain a thumbs up that stayed near her waist to not be entirely obvious. That would suffice instead of yellling "Yo, Thumbs!" to him. Kazzy dug into her pocket for her phone. Her own thumbs did some quick work of sending a tweet off into the multiverse:: FioHelston: "When the nominations were announced, the membership was to be made up equally of former Ministry workers who have remained active and involved, interested in the continued health of our community, of those citizens nominated by other citizens, and of individuals I invited based on personal criteria - mainly that of expertise to balance the council out." FioHelston: "However, because there were so many fine nominations, and because so many of those who were nominated were willing to take on the work of the council - unpaid work, I add, unlike the Ministry positions - there was no need for me to select members to fill gaps. Each person here has been recognized, either for their past hard work, or because the community believed in their abilities. I am *thrilled* by this." Dyarhk: :: Delicate nods of a listener, agreeing with everything he's hearing so far as they move along. He takes hold of both his elbows. :: Race: Remembers something and reaches into his pocket to turn off his phone. Icer1978: ::She could stand still as a statue at times, this was one of them, listening quietly.:: FioHelston: "And so let's begin. First, I will briefly announce the names of the GAC members, and then we will begin with our agenda. The GAC consists of: Alain DeMuer, Belial, Brian Ravenlock, Caroline Granger, Corlanthis Wystansayr, Edward Batten, Euriya Shilo, Fiora Shantalaine, Icer Shimmerscale, Kazzy Hart, Koyliak Simon, Matthew Simon , Race, Silver Starblade, Wolvinator." Kazzy Hart: ::Kazzy listened. She also worked super hard not to shout out any lame jokes brewing in that blond head:: Dyarhk: :: Debonair smile at the alphabetizing. :: Caroline Granger: As her name was spoken, Caroline nodded silently, to identify herself to anyone watching and interested, even as she put the names to the faces of the people sat at the table with her. Race: When his name is called the mogul lifts his hand "Absent" then pauses..." Oh wait....nevermind." Icer1978: ::A dip of horned head as her name was called.:; = Euriya Shilo has entered the room = FioHelston: ((On a quick OOC note, I know these meetings times will not work for every player. I want to keep them on a weeknight so there is no interference with other activities we will be planning. The time was chosen to best try and accomodate both coasts. If necessary, we will reschedule, but it's not possible to find a day/time that works for everyone, everytime. So we'll be loose with this because everyone will still have loads to do! :) )) Icer1978: ::Along with a grin as she heard Race,:; = Darkstorm has entered the room = Koyliak: ::a crooked grin given first to those gathered when she heard her name and then at Race:: Ebon Ilnaren: ::notes some of the names that he hadn't met personally, and the faces that match them:: Alain DeMuer: ::Alain gives a small smile at the mention of his name, lifts his hand for a brief wave.:: LdyBelial: ::Bel assumes everyone knows her, she simply remains quiet and attentive.:: = Fiora Shantalaine has entered the room = Brian Ravenlock: A silent nod was offered as his name was spoken, coupled with a bit of a smile.

Potential Protection Racket

FioHelston: "It was brought to my attention by one of the council members that there is a potential protection racket being brought into RhyDin from off-world. Does anyone on the council wish to speak to this?" Eregor: (s) Interesting. Alain DeMuer: ::Alain smiles over at Fio.:: "I feel like I'm hogging the microphone. With your permission, governor." FioHelston: "And just as a reminder, as we're moving on, there will be opportunity for public comment and questions at the end of the meeting, on any of these topics." FioHelston: "Please, do, Alain." Race: "With how much I pay in personal security I can just imagine protection being a racket." Mutters more to himself than anyone. Alain DeMuer: ::Alain begins to pass around copies of a letter he received a few weeks ago, from one Mitsugu Ryu. He begins to read it aloud.:: Icer1978: ::Looking to the letter as Alain started to read.:; Caroline Granger: Frowning, Caroline spent a moment composing herself. She was all too aware of the protection racket, and the consequences of not paying. Her eyes turned to Alain once again, not needing to read or hear the letter to know it, word for word. Alain DeMuer: "Mr Alain DeMuer, Owner, Silver Mark Brewery: My name is Mitsugu Ryu and I am the head of a charitable organisation, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. Recently, my associates have learned of a plot to interrupt Silver Mark Brewery's productions, hurt employees, and even hijack shipments. We are prepared to offer our services in order to protect you from this threat." Euriya Shilo: More than a little interested, he would seek to claim a copy of this letter to follow along as it is verbalized. Alain DeMuer: "In exchange for a monthly stipend, we will ensure that your employees are safe from harm, your deliveries reach their destinations intact, and your facilities are free from sabotage. I would like to call on you at your offices soon. Please courteously reply to this letter and inform me of a convenient time for us to meet. I would hate to see such a profitable business such as your brewery fall into ruin because you did not act right away." LdyBelial: ::Takes up one of the copies and reads over it. A hint of frown settles on beatific features.:: Kazzy Hart: ::Holds the letter in both bony hands and reads along:: Victor Kazon: "...so it did make its way around," Victor nodded, his eye projecting a holographic copy of that same letter, but his addressed to Kazon Mithril, and himself. "I really should have killed that guy," he mused quietly. Race: He reads along with Alain and actually snickers softly to himself at the whole of it considering the tech from Earth and what?s present here in Rhydin. It's like a feudal lord offering to protect a demonic prince. Icer1978: :;An arch of an eyeridge given, this was the first she'd heard of this letter, making note of the name.:; Caroline Granger: Brown eyes flashed angrily as she noted the snicker from Race. But she curbed the urge to snap a comment; this was neither the time, nor the place. Alain DeMuer: ::Alain folds his hands again, any trace of his previous smile now gone from his face, a dark frown in its place.:: "Signed by someone calling himself Mitsugu Ryu. Since that time, one of my brewers has been savagely beaten and had his hand broken by unknown assailants. I've heard rumors of other acts of violence, too. Whatever this organization is, I believe it could be a grave threat to our safety....and that shedding light on them will prove their worst enemy." LdyBelial: Has anyone seen these people" Are they heavily tattooed" ::Bel asks of the room at large.:: I am assuming they have made the same....Hmm' Offer, yes, to others" Caroline Granger: "If I may," Caroline spoke up, finally. "I believe I may have a little more information to offer." Koyliak: ::forest-green gaze goes to Caroline:: Goldglo: ::Crossing his arms over his chest, he leans back in his seat: Alain DeMuer: ::Alain turns to Belial's question first, then Caroline's offer of information. Nodding for her to proceed, with a glance at Fio, too.:: FioHelston: "Caroline," passing the floor to her. Bel's question was apt. Race: "Nothing has come my way..." In response to Bel's querie as he looks at Caroline. Lelah: Lelah's eyes widened and she looked at Caroline. Oh, no....She sat forward, literally on the edge of her seat now, dark eyes glued to Caroline's face. Icer1978: This is the first of such letters I have seen honestly. Dyarhk: :: A look of concern wipes over Dyarhk's face as Alain begins to recite from this letter written to him. With the recent bombing, this doesn't sit well with him. He was already devastated when he'd received news of it, and Alain in danger was not something he ever wanted him in. His interest amazingly renewed to listen now and begin thinking how he can contribute his contacts to a worthwhile effort. Surprise took him next, as he looked to the woman who had spoken up. :: LdyBelial: ::Bel turns her attention to Caroline, curious as to what she has to contribute.:: = Bridget Valenti has entered the room = Euriya Shilo: Leaning back in his chair, he shifted his gaze to Caroline after a brief pause on Belail. The pain in Miss Granger's face and voice was obvious, though he did take a moment to study the outside edges of her eyes along with the posture and gestures she made, just looking for any deeper sign of distress. Caroline Granger: "I received a letter almost identical to this one a little over two weeks ago. In answer, I sent my own letter, politely refusing the protection offered. Less than a week later, one of the GrangerGuild workshops was firebombed. Of forty-eight people known to be on the premises, only one survived, and from his description, it would seem we are definitely dealing with an organised group of Earth Asian origin. The timing is too convenient to be a coincidence." Victor Kazon: Listening to Alain, Victor's eyes narrowed and he plucked the pipe from its place between his teeth. He opened his mouth to speak, but reconsidered. Instead, his eye changed filters and he focused his attention momentarily on his 'plant'. It didn't last long, however. Whatever he saw, it wasn't worth watching. LdyBelial: ::Bel nods mostly to herself, the frown darkening.:: Koyliak: ::she frowned and gave a raise of two fingers to signal she had a question when the floor was open again:: Race: The pen twirling stills as the actions of this group goes up on the violence scale as his brow furrows. Caroline Granger: She made no mention of the personal tragedy connected with the attack. It had no place in this discussion. FioHelston: Two incidents of violence related to this, and they were just starting to hear from those who were receiving them. Troubling. "Koy?" as the hand went up. Dyarhk: :: Rubbing his eyes downward. It was so painfully hard to imagine over forty dead. :: Victor Kazon: "Aww, hell..." With that, from the back of the room, the seraph finally raised his hand in the air. Council member or no, he couldn't keep what he had to himself when people were getting hurt. "I have something that may help....eventually, anyway." Eregor: ::eyes narrow at Caroline's report....he had heard the news of the GrangerGuild building second-hand, of course, but hearing the tale from someone directly connected made it all the more harsh:: Dyarhk: : Looks to Koy, then Victor, then the governor with eyes just away from his thumb and index finger. :: FioHelston: She held up a staying index finger to Victor, but nodded to indicate that he would be allowed to speak after Koy. Icer1978: ::Horned head canted then to Victor, she too was frowning, hopefully these people did not know about the lair.:; Koyliak: I'm sorry fer those of yer employ, Ms. Granger. ::addressing Caroline directly first before voicing her question to Alain because he appeared to have the most information, though it was for the group:: Have ye found anyone who has actually 'greed ta pay fer this group's protection" LdyBelial: ::Bel follows Koy's example, lifting her fingers as well. She's happy to wait her turn, after Koy and Victor. Perhaps her question shall be addressed by one of them":: Alain DeMuer: "Not at this time," ::he replies to Koyliak, shaking his head.:: "Until tonight I didn't have direct confirmation of anyone else facing the same threats as myself. I brought it up tonight on a hunch, honestly." Victor Kazon: With a nod, his hand went back to his pipe and he was sucking in smoke again. His eyes then slid to Koy, and rolled in their sockets. "...you didn't..." He muttered under his breath. Caroline Granger: Caroline nodded to Koy gratefully, her expression tight but calm, for now. Ebon Ilnaren: ::raises an eyebrow at Koyliak's question:: = Euriya Shilo has entered the room = Sophie Rhovnik: ::With phone in hand, it was hard to avoid the time. Running interference between Alain and the event coordinator working on the coronation for the next couple hours wasn't exactly her first choice of things to do but it was time. Rising to her feet, she cut a glance his way to catch his eye and nod towards the door.:: Race: Nods at Koy's question since that would give acces to their money depending on terms of transfer requested. Koyliak: ;:nods:: This isn't my area of 'xpertise but mebbe iffn ye could flush out someone scared 'nough ta pay, ye could follow where their money goes. FioHelston: "The gentleman in the audience is next." She did not know his name. Yet. FioHelston: "Finding out who else has received these is a good idea," she added, at Koy's suggestion. Icer1978: :;A nod as she heard Koy, though perhaps an idea was forming in her head.:; LdyBelial: ::Bel nods to Koy's and Fio idea, silently agreeing with it, then turns her attention to Victor.:: FioHelston: "Sir" You said you had something that might help?" Victor Kazon: Nodding, Victor approached the council. "Sorry to interrupt, but is this your guy?" A life-sized image of the man appeared before him, projected by his eye. "Victor Faeraar....and I got that same letter. If this is the same clown that hit you....I got him bugged." The corners of his lips turned sinister. FioHelston: She glanced to Alain and Caroline, since they had received the letters. LdyBelial: ::Bel smiles at Victor....Now, that's her idea of proactive!:: Caroline Granger: Caroline frowned, peering at the image. "I didn't see him myself, but if it is possible to get a copy of this image, I can check with my assistant. She dealt with the man who delivered the message personally - described him as a shark." Victor Kazon: "The dumbass actually sat at receiving for two hours, but we all knew he was a con since he didn't have the cypher." The image turned slowly so everyone could get a look. "My second chipped him, but I haven't gotten anything particularly useful from his eyes. I don't think he's very high on the ladder." Grem: ::He quietly slips into a vacant seat, notebook in hand.:: Alain DeMuer: ::Alain nods, verifying the image.:: "That's him." Icer1978: ::Studying the image intently, horned head canting.:; Kazzy Hart: Sick....::The comment under her breath at the grotesquely cool sight of Victor's eye projection:: = Etherealdream has entered the room = FioHelston: "Might I ask your name?" Alain DeMuer: ::He glances at Sophie, then at his watch, frowning.:: "I know this is terrible timing....but I've gotta run. Sorry." Kazzy Hart: ::Now she used restraint again not to yell "Yo, Two Tone!" across the room when she saw Grem. She smiled wide enough to split her face.:: Victor Kazon: Clearing his throat, "Victor Kazon Faeraar. I own and engineer Kazon Mithril. We always have a cypher with our customers, so when he came asking for an 'appointment' without one, we knew something was off." Sophie Rhovnik: ::Her stern looks come to an end as Alain pushes away from the table. Quietly, she meets him at the door to escort him to his next meeting so he doesn't get lost along the way.:: FioHelston: She nodded, comprehension dawning. "Would you be willing to share any information you receive with us" And a copy of that picture" It could be very helpful." Icer1978: ::Still studying the image, it never hurt to be safe instead of sorry.:; Grem: ::He smiles, briefly, and tips his head, then returns his attention to the discussion at hand.:: Euriya Shilo: A bit confused by the contrast of opinions regarding this threat, there were a number of different questions swirling inside. Still, he needed more information before voicing them, and let the conversation continue uninterrupted by him. Dyarhk: :: One final glance to his watch. He shakes his head quickly. He's stayed as long as he could afford. A look pleading for the board's understanding as he rises from the table with other business to attend to tonight. A last wave and he is heading for the door unbuttoning the two suit jacket buttons on his way. He meets up with Alain and Sophie outside for a brief moment. :: Race: He glances around with a brief frown at how this matter is being publicly discussed since none of them have a way to know if this yahoo scam artist has any associates present. Victor Kazon: He did not, however, mention the dozens of military-grade defense drones he'd deployed around his holdings; Victor's trust only went so far, and for all he knew, someone here could be one of their agents. "Absolutely....if we get anything. That one was just an errand-boy by the look of things. A thug in a suit, but still a thug." = Amorphous has entered the room = FioHelston: "Thank you. I think our first order of business is to alert the public to this group and find out who else has been contacted. Anything else related to this matter should be handled securely from this point. Does anyone on the council have additional thoughts we should consider before we move on?" Goldglo: ::leans forward:: Yes. FioHelston: "Matt?" Ebon Ilnaren: ::glances at Phen next to him:: Victor Kazon: Victor nodded, turning back and heading over to his spot by the window, pipe already back in his teeth. "I'll send over the picture tomorrow, along with the DNA and fingerprints we got from the office chair." Koyliak: ::she only had to turn her head a little to the left to pay attention to the Simon who did have expertise in this area:: Goldglo: Just that, right now, we're speaking a lot about cirumstaces and suspicion, with not a lot of facts. Let's just keep that in mind before we start issuing public warnings. We need to arm ourselves with a lot more information before any official stance is taken, in my opinion. Now that we have some concern, let the Watch do their jobs and investigate further. Etherealdream: She's black on black tonight. Black with the barest splash of brilliant blues. Long legs first, then those bright, bright blue hues. From her boots to the smart, sharp pleat in her blouse where the barest hint of aqua lace shot through. Given the heat of the tones in the room, it was an appropriate palette for the night, as Anyanka knew such words could lead to the desire of creating said colors on the right skin. Click, click, click came the snap of her heels as the siren strode quietly in. Goldglo: (circumstances) FioHelston: "Noted. I will take that under advisement." LdyBelial: ::Bel nods in agreement with Matt.:: FioHelston: "Appreciate the point, too. Does anyone else have anything to add?" Phen Seer Ilnaren: ::Her attention was focused on the discussion, but she gave a mental nudge back to Ebon:: LdyBelial: ::She lifts her fingers as Koy had done, and waits for Fio to recognize her.:: FioHelston: "Belial?" Etherealdream: Well....with the clicks, perhaps not so quietly. But quietly enough the echo of them didn't carry much farther than the throng of bodies that filled the building. Anya's steps stopped, predictably so, at the side of her Seraph's chair. The curl of smoke from his pipe teased what little bit of her cayenne hair that had sprung free from it's neat, prim coil at the base of her head. LdyBelial: This is likely an extortion racket. There may be others. Letting the Watch in on what?s going on allows us some eyes on it. We may want to keep others out there too. What we need more than public panic is information. I suggest we dig that up before going to the public about this. Icer1978: ::Bobbing her horned head in agreement.:; It would nae do to strike fear into so many::softly:: Again. LdyBelial: ::A glance over the fullness of the Hall then back to the council members.:: The more we know, the less the panic will be in the long run. Caroline Granger: Caroline, too, agreed with a silent nod. FioHelston: "I think we're all in agreement on this one. Thank you for the reminder about the bigger issue, both of you." FioHelston: "Anyone else?" Victor Kazon: He was immediately up and leaning back against the wall, an arm winding around Anya's waist. I decided to come warn the skurs about the idiots who dropped that 'protection' letter on me. It seems not only was I late, but they've already struck. Some may have even died, by the looks of the faces in here. LdyBelial: ::A nod to Fio, then to Matt and on to Caroline. Bel knows the lady is keeping something private but she won't butt in.::

RhyDin Holidays

FioHelston: "And....the next item up for discussion is RhyDin holidays." FioHelston: "In order to assist with community event planning, Belial has started the process of identifying the major holidays celebrated in RhyDin, a more daunting task than one might first think!" A little grin made its way down the table. Victor Kazon: The seraph slid just a little closer to his siren, the arm around her waist squeezing a little as he sucked in a lungful of smoke before taking the pipe from his mouth. You're welcome to play as well, of course. He knew she needed neither his invitation nor his consent; it was an affectionate statement that if she were to join the game, it would be as his rival. FioHelston: "Belial, would you share an update with the council and describe our next steps?" Icer1978: Perhaps a day just for the children" Especially those who do nae get out much. LdyBelial: ::Bel leans forward in her chair with a grin down to Fio.:: Yes, we've been tossing through the history books, trying to identify days that would best suit Rhy'Din holidays. Phen Seer Ilnaren: ::She smiled to Ebon, kissed his cheek. It was time for her to start back to the manor and prepare for the next day. She crouched down while near the front and stepped away, not standing straight until she was sure she was not in anyone's view:: LdyBelial: I am very open to suggestions....and I think perhaps we might wish to tie this in with the Welcome Center team too. = Race has entered the room = Icer1978: ::Quiet again as Bel started to speak.;; LdyBelial: We've identified at least two excellent choices....But were thinking that perhaps opening the idea up to the public for their choices would be best" Ebon Ilnaren: ::squeezes Phen's hand gently as she passes:: Etherealdream: As the word holidays filtered through the air, Anya's attention perked anew. Through all her years in the city, she'd known it's people to celebrate nearly all and any holiday, due to the eclectic series of folk about the streets. Keeping her eyes and ears a bit keener did not pull her mind far from the arms holding her, nor the owner's breath so ready to be released. Slowly, very slowly, she turned to take his lips and the smoke in one fell swoop. Such a hunger for violence still" Tsk. Kazzy Hart: Something with fireworks! ::Too excited still to remember to raise her hand.:: LdyBelial: Founders Day and we can not overlook our Duelers, that would be rude. So, a day to celebrate the Duels, perhaps Honor day" Koyliak: ::grins at Belial's inclusion of duelers:: LdyBelial: Of course....there have been other ideas offered up. But again, I recommend we open this to the public and give them a chance to let us know what they want. Any questions" Suggestions? Any input at all is more than welcome....Oh' and at any time, it doesn't have to be right now. FioHelston: Nodding as she listened, her attention sliding along the faces in the room, both at the table and in the rows of chairs designated for the public. LdyBelial: ::Nods over to Kazzy.:: Yes, fireworks would be lovely, I agree! LdyBelial: ::A playful wink to Koy. Of course, Bel wouldn't overlook the Duels!!:: FioHelston: ((If those here have not had an opportunity to read through and participate in the discussion on the OOC forum, I strongly encourage you to take a look. There's a link to it on the Governor's Office board too.)) FioHelston: "Thank you, Belial. I think this will naturally generate some excitement around event planning for the rest of the year." Jolyon Gardiner: ::Peculiar; he looks down at his notes, and then back up at the committee discussion. A rub to his bottom lip as he considers what they are proposing, and shakes his head free of the impulse to speak up. Not his place::

Allocation of Funds Raised at Business Gala

FioHelston: "There is an item on the agenda having to do with funds from a charity fundraiser that need to be allocated...." Fionna glanced down the table looking for Fiora. "It's a matter that I intend to put up for public discussion via a poll, but if you could, Fiora, tell us a quick bit about it?" Ebon Ilnaren: ::the mention of a rodeo caught his attention:: Etherealdream: Never. Like her 'creation', the creator had tact, but little shame. A rare combination she was glad had filtered on through. Grinning against his mouth, and still, even as she finally pulled away to exhale, Anya gave a slow series of taps to Victor's wrist. The unseen one with it's sharp, sharp nails. "Remember that....we'll have to get word out." Sure, it coincided with what was being spoken about, but from the light in her eyes it seemed the siren's agenda was elsewhere. Grem: ::One brow ticks up a bit.:: Fiora Shantalaine: Looks up in surprise at the mention of her name, hastily pushing back down the hem of her skirt to hide the scribbled pen marks on her thigh (yea notebook paper next time), "Oh aye, I'd love to Miss Governor." She cleared her throat and flashed a dimpled grin at all assembled. Icer1978: ::A tilt of her head then to Fiora.:; LdyBelial: ::Bel has heard of the merry realtor, but has yet to meet her. Her gaze follows Fio to Fiora curiously.:: Kazzy Hart: ::Fiora was talking! Kazzy swallowed down a snort awkwardly and finally looked back up. Her cheeks were red from her previous effort not to burst out laughing at the humor in her head.:: Euriya Shilo: He blinked a few times, shaken from his private endeavors to once again regard the room with a casual look. Fiora's voice stole his focus and with a slight shift he turned to face her with a quick adjustment to the glasses perched upon his slender nose. Fiora Shantalaine: "The Business Gala event was a huge success! The date auction alone raised more money than I dreamt we could. I was in talks with the former Ministers Ravenlock and Silverblade to use those funds as a starter account to assist with issues regarding small businesses, but we never actually arrived at any set, uh," Cerulean eyes glanced to Euriya, "parameters." Yup, that was the word she was after, "Because the event was advertised as a way to support local businesses that's where the funds should LdyBelial: ::Bel can't help but wonder what has Kazzy so red faced...:: Fiora Shantalaine: go but we're lookin for suggestions and supports, A vote if ye will, on where and how exactly it should be spent." She deployed the serious dimples this time, "Because we're gonna do it again here in January and all that moneys got to go to somethin." Euriya Shilo: He nodded to her perfect use of the word. Koyliak: ::she raised two fingers again:: Fiora Shantalaine: Thumbs up! Fiora Shantalaine: Both of them. FioHelston: "Anyone with suggestions about where the funds should go, please send me a memo, and I'll compile the list. Then we'll have everyone vote. I'd like suggestions by the end of the week, please." Fiora Shantalaine: Politician smile....kinda. FioHelston: "Koy?" Fiora Shantalaine: "What she said." Nodding vigorously in agreement with the Governor, sending russet curls spilling about as she regained her seat with a little blush. Her heart raced like a hummingbird. Public speaking was all kinds of awesome. Icer1978: ::A soft chuckle given then as she caught sight of the thumbs up.:: She would nod her horned head then, and wait her turn.:; LdyBelial: ::Bel nods to Fio's deadline. But she has no idea who needs the money. She'll make a point of discussing this with others around town.:: = Gemethyst has entered the room = Euriya Shilo: He turned to observe the entirety of the room, simply gauging their reaction as the slip of a hand beneath the table found Fiora's thigh, the quick and gentle squeeze meant to instill confidence as well as congratulate on a job well done. Koyliak: I was goin' ta suggest tha one place ta put it would be ta 'stablish a grant foundation fer entrepreneurs ta submit proposals fer wha kinda business they want ta start. The Kitsune Foundation has been of major assistance helpin' the charities I've raised money fer 'long with the Benson Boulevard Initiative 'ctually receive and be held accountable fer spendin' their funds appropriately Koyliak: Jest one of many suggestions I'm sure will come ta surface. ::smiles:: FioHelston: Again, Fionna nodded. "Make sure to send that to me this week, so I don't forget to add it for consideration. Good suggestion." Ciarth Whitemane: ::nods approvingly at the suggestion of a foundation—an unbiased entity—to help small businesses get a good start in Rhydin, recalling his own long efforts to raise the funds he needed:: LdyBelial: ::Bel likes Koy's idea.:: Grem: ::He nods faintly as he scribbles something down in his notebook.:: Icer1978: I would suggest High Spires. The orphans' home. Surely it could be used for purchases the children need.::Momma knew, she used her own hoard for the sanctuary that was their lair.:; Fiora Shantalaine: She nodded in agreement with the coutoure'd Koyliak. But didn't add anything to the actual discussion here and now. FioHelston: "Okay. We've been at this for a couple of hours now. Icer - another good suggestion, but I'm going to wind this discussion down for now so we can get to the questions from the audience. Please send me a note, though. I'll add it to the list." Goldglo: ::squeezing Koy's knee as he shifts his weight in the chair:: Lucius DeAuster: ::Turning, he moved to the door and slipped out into the night::