Dorothy
"The young prince shares a valid point we've not discussed." Alyus, who had been silent up until Alithia referred to him, glanced to Prince Azir with a stern but understanding gaze. The Iron Stag's irritation did not go unnoticed by Alyus, and while a part of him wanting nothing more than to push those buttons further, this was not some petty matter they were discussing. It was the world, and the lives within it that could be at stake. Regardless, the entirety of the summit had missed a vital point in this prophecy, one only Azir had managed to catch. Up until this point, even Alyus had not fully thought of it. "I am sure I don't need to remind us all what the word catalyst means. Just as his highness said, what if it *Is* Something that jump starts the visions the four of you had seen?"

Furrowing his brow, Alyus sighed and shook his head slightly. Eyeing the room, it was clear all present were either refusing to admit it or were blisfully unaware of a particular part of the prophecy. "We can no longer sit by and fail to realize or admit what these great terrors truly are. The prophecy does not say they might return, it says they *Will*, and if we are to take every facet of these words as truth than we cannot continue to ignore what I believe to be the most important and arguably more dangerous line." Gauging reactions and expressions, Alyus eyed Dhakashira directly for a moment, his gaze one of uncertainty. The Bear King was entirely out of his element here.

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"There has only ever been one point in our world's short history where there have been great terrors plaguing the lands we call home, and I'm sure all of you know what I'm referring to. The dragons were a mighty foe, one that took the All-Mother herself to defeat. If Prince Azir is correct in his hesitation, this catalyst we so desperately want to find could be the exact reason they return. Would it not be more beneficial to allow the expansive resources we each have to explore other potential leads? Was Khisfire not once the capital of the very empire the dragons sought to destroy?" Without realizing it, Alyus's voice had grown in volume, his tone much more demanding. When he fell silent however, the king allowed a moment of reprieve from his words, and instead offered a nod to Azir.

"If the representatives of Khisfire believe their best way to contribute is to research and study what we know or even search for other leads, than at the very least allow them to explain their opinion. We all deserve the same opportunity to share what we believe the best course of action is." As Alyus finished speaking, his crystal blue eyes fell upon Astalios. There was very clear tension in the Bear King's gaze, one that demanded not only respect but reason. Astalios was proving more and more to be a man Alyus had not fully figured out yet, but regardless of how he felt about Alynthi's king, Alyus was prepared to stand by what he believed the best course of action was.

"Your highness-" Alyus turned to look at the prince, his gaze softening slightly from the hard look he had given Astalios. "-please do elaborate on your ideas."
Anita
Azir, leaned back into his chair, expressionless as he observed the assembly's reaction to his proposal. One particular king, visibly irritated, failed to conceal his disdain. Azir couldn't help but find amusement in the ruler's glare and lack of basic control over his emotions. Astolias, had struck him to be a man who used more brawn than brain and Azir had chided himself for making such assumptions but perhaps his initial judgement had not been too far from the truth. Although the iron king's tone irked him, Azir clenched his fists hidden from view and maintained a composed facade, it was beneath him to entertain such provocations when there were more important issues at hand.

Just as the iron king's words were interrupted by the findara princess, Vuruxes' laughter echoed in his head as if he had read Azir's thoughts *"You're going to let an old swine who relies on a little girl to convey his thoughts disrespect you? Go on tell him what you think of him, call him out for the brainless brute that he is"*

Like a persistent shadow, Vuruxes appeared at Azir's side, sensing his annoyance. The demon, ever eager to provoke a reaction, whispered venomous words into Azir's ear. Yet, Azir's expressions remained unshaken. He had grown accustomed to Vuruxes' presence, his taunts carrying little weight in his mind. Ignoring the demon's attempts to goad him into acting on his emotions, Azir leaned forward turning his attention to the princess who had taken the floor, his eyes fixed on her as he listened intently.

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Having little prior knowledge of the princess, Azir's gaze shifted towards her, curiosity mingled with a tinge of skepticism. He knew she hailed from Findara, a staunch ally of Alynthi, and with that alliance in mind, Azir had anticipated the representatives of both nations to echo each other's opinions. However, he had become suspicious of their concerted focus on a specific aspect of the prophecies and visions, which conveniently granted them access to their bitter rival's lands.

As these thoughts flickered through Azir's mind, his brow furrowed ever so slightly, revealing a hint of suspicion. His eyes scanned the room, subtly assessing the demeanor of the representatives from Findara and Alynthi, searching for any signs of hidden agendas. Suppressing a sigh, Azir reminded himself not to jump to conclusions too hastily. Perhaps he was overthinking their actions, neither had shown any capacity to think that far ahead. Azir's gaze returned to the princess, attentive yet guarded, as he continued to listen to her words. 

As the princess continued to speak, emphasizing the lack of alternatives and the urgency of the visions, Azir found it increasingly challenging to suppress a laugh from slipping past his composed facade. He couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between her confident words and the practical realities of the world. Her courage seemed naive, as if she knew the world solely through the pages of books rather than through experience.

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A hint of amusement danced in Azir's eyes, barely contained behind his impassive gaze. He found himself mentally dissecting her words, his mind playfully contemplating a sarcastic retort: *"If the prophecy had claimed the catalyst lay beyond a cliff, would she be advocating for us to blindly jump off it?"* However, Azir knew better than to voice such a remark. His lips pressed together in a thin line, hiding any indication of the amusement and skepticism that stirred within him. 

The princess's grandiose description of the council left Azir perplexed. He couldn't help but question if he had been attending an entirely different meeting. So far, all they had achieved were vague interpretations of incoherent visions, testimonies that only bred further uncertainty, and a plan to embark on a search for a potentially catastrophic object they were ill-prepared to confront. Frustration welled up within Azir, threatening to breach his calm exterior. Azir clenched his fists slightly under the table, his knuckles whitening with the strain of his restrained emotions. He fought to maintain his composure, reminding himself that the princess's views were nothing more than naive idealism. 

Prince Azir couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment furrowing his brows as his gaze swept across the room and lingered for a moment on the iron king before returning to the Findara princess.

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*"This is the best defense we can muster? A group of rulers relying solely on a prophecy without undertaking efforts to verify its authenticity or understanding its origins. Not even considering the possibility that the prophecy itself could be a trap before fixating on a plan to wander aimlessly through a vast expanse of ice?"*

Cooling the rising tide of frustration, Azir steadied his breathe, letting go of any frustration with each exhale. Although Azir lacked an alternative plan of action, he had been taught a good ruler always seeks counsel from those more knowledgeable **Before** Taking action. Resigned, Azir gave up on trying to convince them of the danger in pursuing the unknown, after all they were used to deciding and not discussing. 

A glimmer of hope washed over Azir as a voice of reason finally emerged, following the princess's rhetoric. It was the bear king who spoke in defense of Azir's cautious approach, providing a welcome respite from the prevailing mindset. Azir's eyes brightened subtly, a faint hint of appreciation for the bear king's intervention. Though Azir had yet to form a complete judgment of Alyus's character, the fact that he was willing to listen to dissenting opinions and consider alternative theories already elevated him in Azir's estimation. Notably, Azir also observed that Alyus made no mention of the proposed separate council, an idea that Azir had put forth. While he recognized it as his own to defend, he couldn't help but notice the omission.

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Azir offered an acknowledging nod towards the Bear King before turning his attention back to the council. His posture upright, his voice measured, Azir began to address the council once more

"I would only like to offer my reasons for suggesting the establishment of a separate council. Firstly, most of us gathered here are not experts in matters of prophecy. It would be arrogant of us to assume that we can unilaterally make decisions without those who possess deeper understanding and knowledge in such matters." Azir's hands, previously resting calmly in his lap, occasionally moved with purpose, his gestures were deliberate but not exaggerated. 

His gaze traversed the assembly, his voice steady. "Secondly, As some of you have repeatedly pointed out the urgency of this issue, I won't do so again but each of us bears the responsibility of governing our kingdoms and managing our organizations. Devoting all our attention solely to solving these prophecies would be impossible and potentially neglect the needs of our people in the present. A separate council, comprised of dedicated individuals from each kingdom, would let us react to sudden developments in our absence and allow us to combine our strengths and resources more efficiently while keeping the power of decision making within this council."

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Azir chose to omit the final reason behind his proposal. Above all else, He couldn't ignore the underlying animosity and simmering rivalries that often lurked beneath their polite façades. The notion of these rulers, who would readily seize any opportunity to undermine each other, suddenly holding hands and joining forces to save the world seemed incredulous to him. What if the prophesied catalyst turned out to be a powerful weapon? Were they to simply believe that none of the individuals present would succumb to the temptation and seize it for themselves? His expression hardened, a flicker of skepticism glinting in his eyes. As these thoughts raced through Azir's mind, his features remained composed, concealing his apprehensions. 

"I understand there are more pressing matters at hand so this is merely a suggestion and not of immediate concern, all I ask is you seriously consider this proposal solely on it's merit and not personal emotions."

With his statement concluded, Azir's gaze swept across the council, hoping to have put this matter to rest. Yet, there remained another pressing issue that demanded attention.

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"As for the expedition itself," Azir began, his voice firm and resolute. His brows furrowed slightly, reflecting his genuine concern. "I do not view my people to be expendable and as such I don't share the enthusiasm in sending my men into a situation that could potentially be catastrophic."

Pausing for a moment, Azir leaned forward slightly, his posture conveying a sense of determination. His hands rested on the table before him, fingers tapping gently,

"We will discuss this matter internally," Azir continued, his voice carrying a note of conviction. "Among our trusted advisors and siblings. If we come to the decision to send an envoy, we will seek the approval of his Majesty, Alyus, and ensure our efforts are coordinated with the existing groups present."

He was resolute in his stand, willing to take the necessary time and precautions before committing to any course of action. With a final nod, Azir leaned back in his seat. He remained attentive, prepared to engage in further discussion if needed, but he had already said everything he deemed necessary.
Kenneth
She was often described as a scholar, whether derogatory, neutral, or positive, it was no secret that her preference was in the analysis of facts and discovery of connections between them. Perhaps that was the reason that she found the condescension dripping from the Prince's words so malodorous. *Solely on its merit and not personal emotions*. Was that truly what he believed? Perhaps some around the table, this young prince included, might think that way, allow themselves to put forth ideas and proposals based on what best suits them and their needs, but to imply that others function in this way as well with no proof or actions to justify the assertion was arrogant to say the least. 

It's important to remember, she reminded herself, that not all seated here have the same good intentions that Findara had continuously displayed and planned on honoring. Though the further justification of the council elucidated this man's thought process, it did nothing to convince her of its necessity. Even without an army of siblings to share the load she did not worry about this matter consuming far too much of her time. All of her days had been endlessly filled since she first began stepping into the role of an heir, and she was under no illusions that this toil would end any time soon. The work was never done. Just as there was always more to learn there would always be more to do. Even so, her own proposal had accounted specifically for this, a chance for all parties to discuss the revelations of the meeting with all parties they deemed relevant before reconvening. Then again perhaps the pride of some might be fragile enough that a rejected idea alone was enough to elicit such a biting, unnecessarily pointed and frankly insulting response. 

Then again, based on the meeting thus far much better should not have been expected. The tension between the Bear and Iron kings was palpable and she had no desire to be stuck between it. Everything she had done and said thus far h

Ad been in the spirit of cooperation; a spirit it seemed some only valued in name, not practice. 

The possibility had occurred to her in preparation that factions or blocks might form, as they so often did in a room of people used to getting their way. It seemed as though that scenario might unfold given how quick this Prince was to disrespect fellow royalty. 

*I do not view my people as expendable.* Her face remained composed, an intentionally distracted look apparent from the wandering of her eyes. *Expendable*. Were the forces of Khisfire so weak and unskilled that committing them to an expedition would tax the kingdom greatly? Perhaps instead there was potential for embarrassment when put in line with elite forces from other kingdoms. Previous intelligence did not indicate this, but it was always a possibility. The Prince would be privy to information her informants were not. His words were meant to be flagrant, it was hard to imagine they had any purpose but to elicit a response. Whether from her or the Iron King, that was uncertain.

Expendable. The tight clenching of her jaw did little to abate the desire for her fist to follow. Of course for someone who war was not a fresh scar still tender to the touch such a thought might occur. The rulers of Findara were no cowards. Their son-heir had died on the battlefield defending the very sense of unity that this Prince professed to care so deeply about. But it was not her place to question his knowledge of war, his understanding of what it truly means to give your life to a cause. Those swearing their lives to protect the people of Findara were not so easily swayed by the possibility of danger. In fact, they readily prepared to meet such challenges so that those they leave behind might never face the same. For this arrogant man to imply anything else was nearly enough to put her over the edge. Nearly. 

There was no point in a response from her. The Bear King had all but ignored her words and now this Prince had clearly made up his mind. The council would continue on as though her proposal had never been made until someone else, much more experienced and wiser could suggest that they discuss the matter internally among their trusted advisors as she had suggested mere moments ago. Findara did not often have Queens, that much she knew. Perhaps this was why. 

Perhaps she was no seasoned politician, but when one's intentions are well-meant the process of spotting those whose motives would prove to be less savory became far easier.
Isabel
*A gracious intervention by Princess Alithia, he thought, had saved him in more ways than one. Had he been responding with the words hot off his tongue, there would have been little but fighting to do, and they were not at this conference to brawl like children arguing over who would take the largest toy. A thankful glance made its way to her as he focused in for a moment and attempted to cool down - the ignorance of one person, and his assumption of their lack of preparation, was poor reason to destroy the conference he had worked hard to pull together.

The boy doubtless thought he was being clever - which explained his tone. Anthron's heart pulsed away inside of him, attempting to stoke the flames of pride, the urge to bite back at him with exactly the amount of respect he deserved for the lack of attention he had paid to the meeting thus far. The only thing left to do was to take things calmly and slowly, and ensure that there would be no unraveling of the delicate tapestry they had worked hard to weave.

A soft inhale and exhale helped submerge the ball of anger into something more calm, like molten metal encountering the surface of a pool of water. There was no reason to be angry at the boy - he had seen many officers like him come to Dazvaz thinking they had figured the practice of war to be solved, and lost a great deal of men under them before they learned their proper lessons, or else were lost in foolish sorties of their own making. This one, though, was probably more given to inaction.

His face was still the stern mask of contemplation, but the anger behind it had faded into restraint for the moment. There was also the matter of the child Alyus, but he had expected something of the sort the moment there was an opportunity to challenge what the Alynthi court or their allies had said. The best avenue forward, then, was to lay things out empirically, and let that stand, regardless of what the boy thought he was expressing intelligently.*

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"I shall address the first points, Your Majesty, Your Highness, before moving on to the proposal of a subcommittee." *His voice was level and even, a measured effort to remain in control.* "Firstly, we have spent the meeting thus far attempting to puzzle out what the catalyst may be, but the fact remains that we have little idea what it catalyzes, or what it is. Therefore, it is *Most* Pressing that we learn more about it, which was thus far the focus of the proposed reconvention in Gantrick castle, with the company of hundreds of scholars from every kingdom we can muster."

*His gaze slid briefly to Azir, reminding him of what had already been proposed.* "All of us here present were proposing - and pledging - scholars to the cause. This *Is* The research that our Khisfirian friends have proposed, is it not? We have previously dealt with that concern - I see no reason to retread proposals that have already taken place thus far. It is arrogant to proceed without the proper resources and histories, as you say. That is plainly truth." *Clean your ears, boy, or speak again without ignoring what has come before. Speak of arrogance again, and drown in your own.* "The Khisfirian scholars are welcome to join us in this at their leisure, of course."

*Expendable was a strong word. Was he sending scholars into the pits of doom to laugh at their demise? Surely not - and neither would he send soldiers on hopeless expeditions to take on armies of orcs with no more than a company at their disposal. But if research was too dangerous for them, then he supposed that the profession of scholars had outlived its usefulness, and there would be no need for any more of them to do their work. He had stated - twice - that they were sending scholars. Why would it be a possibility in the Khisfirian boy's head that he did not intend for them to do the proper research?*

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"As for the creation of a subcommittee, Your Highness," *He continued undaunted.* "Any representatives sent would be drawn from among our trusted advisors, which means only that the Great Game - the politics of nations - would be fought by proxy. It wastes valuable time authorizing and negotiating wording when between us, at this conference table, we may settle disputes personally, and do so with the urgency required of an endeavor like this one. Additionally, I expect our scholars to be able to do quality research without our direct oversight - and for the wayshrines we use to be fully capable of carrying us all to Gantrick in relatively short order if decisions are made that require our presences."

"None of us should need to be continually in Gantrick to govern the investigation, especially given the gracious help of His Majesty." *He concluded.* "When our presence is required for our coordination, it should be a simple matter for us to reconvene, given that this cooperative measure is of the highest priority. To that end, I look forward to our next reconvention, three days hence, where we might begin to make progress in this research endeavor."