Romani Montclaire - The Stellus they believe in (5/5)

[16:16] Del mer Joyau asks, "Where ever you'd like. Either bench... Maybe Malikos would like some company...?"
[16:17] Elora walked over and sat beside Malikos.
(Elora Renae Otho)
[16:22] It's been put off for too long now. A decision needed to be made by the Clergy on who will act as the next speaker of the Stars after Pericles' death.

Del waited. hand on the armrest of the chair and tapping. Such is nerve inducing, to have all of Priesthood considered for this position.

Sparrow cos Queen, Romani cos Montclaire, Del mer Joyau, Inante arl Salis...

Their head tilted to the side, lost in thought at the moment as those of the Clergy filed in one by one.

This seemed fine, though a Deacon or two was missing. Sethon and Thalis. At least they can begin right now and the others can be informed when they arrive.

"We've had time to cope and process the loss we've had recently. It's time we properly discuss who will be the next Stellus..."

"We've four options, myself, Romani, Sparrow, and Inante, for such a position... We'll do it as a vote-- The Clergy should all agree who should be the head, yes? Let's begin..."


(Del mer Joyau)
[16:22] Malikos Caelum says, "The will of the Stellus is the one I vote for."
[16:25] Coming to rest in the chair next to Del, Romani would glance forwards through the room. A small nod would be given from the Priest.

"This sounds fine to me. The Clergy should vote on the person who leads it. I would also like to make a rule that a person can not vote for themselves. Currently we also seem to be missing the faces of Sethon and Inante." A small nod was given towards Thalis as they entered.

"We should collect their votes when they enter. But the votes of all those who are present should be able to be cast currently."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[16:29] This particular meeting had been held off for too long. It was time they finally saw it through.

A brief wave, and a smile would be given towards everyone present, as the priest situated himself in his seat.

Inante, Romani, Del, and himself.

It seems like there were a fair amount of candidates to choose from for the position of Stellus!

"So, how exactly are we doing the voting? Are we keeping it anonymous, or are we just going to state our votes out in the open. It doesn't really matter to me, but I imagine there are some out there who might care."
(Sparrow cos Queen)
[16:34] The votes of those not present would be collected at a later time and added in with the rest, assessed, and a Stellus chosen.

But a good part was brought up. Del hummed a bit. How the late Stellus Pericles was chosen was out in the open. Deep opinions shared and such.

"I'll start then."

Naturally they can't cast a vote to themself.

"My vote goes to Romani. He's very concrete and grounded. I believe with him as the head, we'll be more structured. He did wish to organize a peaceful summit between the leaders, too... That cannot be ignored."

"He's also strength and excellent skills with holy arts. I believe the better of us all present here. The heavens allowed him a great deal of strength. While on the path of Keeper, like Pericles, he'll be able to protect those of the Church..."

Though strength is not a needed quality for leadership. Especially within the Church. There are more aspects for such a promotion.

"He's a kind heart, leveled and a bit stern. While a leader can come in many forms, I believe he'd make a wonderful Stellus..."
(Del mer Joyau)
[16:39] Good.

He'd rather there not be secrets within the church.

"Right, then I'll follow Del up." A brief nod follows as Starburn's chosen prepares to continue. He knew who he was going to chose the moment he entered this room.

"I'll second that vote. There are few that I would trust to pick up Pericles' mantle, and you're one of them. Of course Del is too, but... You've always struck me as someone destined to be the Stellus. You're firm when you need to be, strong, and resolute, but also incredibly kind, and fair.

Plus, you're a Hel of a warrior, one that would make Teach proud."

The Keeper leans back a bit in his seat, a wide smile plastered across his face. As much as we wanted to be the one to pick up Pericles' mantle, and continue his legacy...

He wasn't ready.

Romani was.

"You'll make a fine Stellus… Should others share the same opinion as Del, and myself."
(Sparrow cos Queen)
[16:40] If it was the will of the Late Saint Perciles, then...

He raised his hand to speak.

"I third this vote.

They are the most gifted."
(Malikos Caelum)
[16:40] There was a pause as Del said they would start and spoke. For a moment, the non-matching eyes would blink before looking towards Sparrow.

"It appears to be an open vote. Similar to you, the anonymity or lack thereof does not bother me." A small nod given before glancing towards Del.

"My vote is for Del. You have been a good friend to me, and have been for others as well. Perciles spoke to you and said that you would make a good Stellus in case of a situation like this. I believe his words."

"We may disagree from time to time, but you are very much a boon to the church. You may be less vocal then myself sometimes, but you still thrive at the heart of matters. If I did not believe such, I would not have spoken up for you before, or here." A small smile crossed Romani's face, before nodding, sitting back in his seat.

"I would also like to suggest Sparrow for the Rank of High Keeper. It is not a matter that we really vote on, but I believe Sparrow has the strength and a mind adapt for the position. He's fought and done things that show initiative, at times where I might have been too focused on an end result."

"Just making that opinion known." He nods, glancing slightly down at the ground as Sparrow seconded Del.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[16:41] As always, she was quiet and observant. A small voice rings out from the eastern end of the room. "Priest Montclaire has my vote. On behalf of Sethon, he also casts his vote to Priest Montclaire... If that is allowed."
(Filia)
[16:45] Picking a successor to take place of the Stellus? That was... A hard call, and even one that the Avitus may be out of place upon. Sauntering in late the Ookami had taken a seat among the bench - Hands kept firmly together.

Hazel hues shift from Del to Sparrow to Romani... All fine candidates that he had his own opinions on. There's a slow grind of his teeth as he mulled over such a thing.

"I'd say... Romani. Ain't got much time with many o' y' bar Del 'n Sparrow 'ere, but... Y' fit th' role in m' eyes." What else could be said among those lines? He wasn't exactly the best at making these big decisions.
(Thalis Avitus)
[16:49] Thoughts share left and right. The most common of them all? Romani. His actions have demonstrated how he's ready for Stellus.

It's not something the more gentle Priest could take on. While it is of the Faith, it dealt heavy with political decisions and the state and actions of Osrona. Politics...?

They shared the same opinion of Pericles on that matter...

But Romani is firm, encouraging. And Sparrow?

Del looked at the Keeper with a smile.

"In the past he brought down the witch Duana Kurokaiyo, he's also recently found two occultists out and about..." They're careful with the details, for now. "I agree that he's deserving of the title High Keeper..."

While not present for many wars, outside of them he's shown a valor and passion for protecting those in need.

"I believe it's settled then..."

Another look at Romani, smile still present.

"Romani cos Montclaire, the Clergy have all agreed, overwhelmingly, that you should take the seat as Stellus, as the speaker of the Stars. To hold the Stars dear and enact their will. Do you agree to this?"
(Del mer Joyau)
[16:56] High Keeper?

The Priest's mouth opens to comment, but words seem to fail him. He had... Wanted this position for quite some time, and yet he hadn't truly expected to get it.

The sorrow that had lingered within the teenager faded away for a moment, as a wide grin spread across his face. He was one step closer to Pericles, and he couldn't be happier.

"I... Thank you, for the kind words. I'll do everything within my power to live up to them."

Though that's when something dawned on him.

"There's... Been a rank that's been empty for some time, since the passing of Nina Garcia. If there's anyone here who deserves to become an Arch Priest, I think it's Del. There are few who do as much for the church as them. You're kind, caring, and always willing to help."

A glance would be sparred over towards the new Stellus.

"Any objections?"

Oh right he should probably...

"-And, congratulations Romani. You've more than earned it.

Soooo, no objections here."
(Sparrow cos Queen)
[16:57] It was not exactly something that he felt like he deserved. While he had tried things in the past, often times things didn't work out. and yet, even so, even as he sat there in silence, swallowing, there was an inhale.

Because while his light had been dimmed from his injury in battle, while he did not glow from deeds, there was something irreplaceable that he felt, something that mattered more then success or failure.

Because when his eyes looked around the room, Romani saw and heard people who believed in him.

"If this is what you all want, what the majority of the Clergy believes is the best choice, then I will accept the seat of Stellus, and continue to do the best for us all." A small swallow, glancing towards the large center seat. In it, for a few seconds, he felt as if he saw Perciles. But ultimately, as he swallowed, he would stand, walking to that large chair and taking a seat down upon it.

"Very well. As my first three acts ofStellus,"

"I approve the canonization of Percilies Vitalis as Saint,"

"I name Sparrow cos Queen as High Keeper of the Celestial Faith,"

"And I name Del Mer Joyau as Arch priest of the Clergy, a person I believe in, and whom Pericles had as well."

He small smile and nod towards both Sparrow and towards Del as he spoke up, inhaling as he sat in the seat.

"Are there any objections?"
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[16:59] Filia says, "^"
[16:59] Thalis shakes his head.
(Thalis Avitus)
[17:00] Thalis Avitus says, "No objections from m'self."
[17:00] Sparrow cos Queen says, "Nope, no objections here."
[17:00] Malikos Caelum says, "It is the will of Saint Percilies."
[17:00] Romani cos Montclaire says, "Very well; In that case,"
[17:04] "Very well, in that case,"

Romani would reach into his cloak. From within, he would take out a piece of paper.

"Saint Percilies did not leave us a will, not to my knowledge. But all the same, he left us the signed contract of 1737. Unless there are objections to it, we will continue to work where he left off."

The paper would be opened, letting all see what was along the page if they so wished.

[ https://i.gyazo.com/6e3668294a0c00f4245a6eeeaa26e17f.png ]

"We did not take Starfall, but all the same we should try to push for peace if there is any possibility. It is unlikely, and we should focus on the defense of the Faithful when the opposing armies start to march, but if anyone finds ways to make the demands of Myllenoris, Theria, and Alabaste lessen, please do inform me."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[17:08] "I'm all for the peace, for everyone knows that this war should be avoided.

However, we heard Asta's words for this peace to come, and it would be inevitable to make the effort. Alexander will not give up the throne, and neither will the queen. If anything, we have to rethink it."

Straight and to the point, a hand moved over towards the rail as he simply started to twitch. There was no bell as there was no hat. However, he had one thing that could help us all.

"Stellus Montclaire, can we all just take this moment to pray?"
(Malikos Caelum)
[17:09] "Understood!"

A hand would move to rest on Romani's shoulder, giving it a brief squeeze, before he pushed himself out of his seat.

"I'll work on training some of the keepers once we return from our expedition, but before that, I think I should go get a bit of rest."

Which unless stopped, that's exactly what he was going to do, head home, and get some rest until their inevitable departure.

"Stars watch over all of you."

(Sparrow cos Queen)
[17:14] Del nodded. The contract was an excellent way to push for peace and a good effort on the Church's part. It's quite thorough and all that's needed now is a time and place.

"I'm not sure how to make Myllenoris want something reasonable and humane..." Perhaps the only way was an inhumane route that Del didn't agree with in the slightest.

"I agree with Malikos. The thrown won't be given up so they'll push and push... However..."

"Fifty-thousand coin was also mentioned. I recall it vividly. Do you, Romani...?" Perhaps the detail was shadowed over her outrageous demand. Live humans, and two-hundred. She spoke as though these people were nothing but cattle.

"I also-" They smiled, allowing themself to back pedal. "Thank you for thinking me worthy of the title Arch Priest... Words can't describe how I'm feeling right now..." But their smile made up for it.

"I'll be sure to work hard for the Church and its Clergy and all who need a helping hand or guidance."

"May the Stars' true light guide us all somewhere better through these dark times. Acting like a beacon of hope and wisdom. We'll make it through- And now more than ever as structure returns to the Church..."

It's like a breath of fresh air and the now Arch Priest sighed lightly.

"I believe we've hit everything we needed to. Unless you all have anything else to say, please take care of yourselves..."
(Del mer Joyau)
[17:20] A nod would be made towards Malikos.

"War should be avoided when it is possible to save lives instead. Neither side is willing to give up the throne between Orsona and Myllenoris, but there is a chance that Theria and Alabaste might be more willing to leave this war. I believe there may be luck in that so that the sides are not so lobsided, and when the city is invaded, less Faithful may be in harm's way."

"I am not sure if they will demand coin, I am not sure for what reason they march. But there may be a chance. It would not do for us to not investigate, at least."

"Myllenoris desires life. However, I spoke to Alya, the general of Theria, and she spoke of not believing in those demands. So I will hold onto hope that as much life can be protected until such hope is shattered." He nod towards Del's mentioning of the money.

"And of course, Del. You are someone who I trust, and whom others trust as well. I believe in you to the point where I would think you the Stellus had it not been myself. I think you are deserving of the rank."

His eyes close, taking off the hat that adorned his head as he bowed his head forwards.

"Of course, take a moment to pray, Malikos. I will join you."

"And indeed Sparrow. Take your time to rest, and I will see you at the expedition."

With that, his head bends forwards, once more in prayer.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[17:25] "Then, may we put our hands together, bow our heads and pray to the Stars for guidance in these trying times?"

He would do so, his hands coming together as he lowered his head towards the rail. A sniffle, followed by a deep inhale.

"The Stars bless us in body, in mind, and in soul. They are there for us whenever there is trouble, there for us when we are alone. To guide us. To help us through times where there was nothing...

However, right now, we need it more than anything else. The stars, ever so merciful, I, a simple, humble servant only ask for this guidance. To guide us to peace and to guide us towards victory on the land that you, stars, shine upon.

To help us through this horrible moment in history, through these times where the Saint Pericles can not guide us with his words and efforts. To help us while Stellus Montclaire leads us towards this era of peace.

Even if it is hard... will you guide us?"

The endwas a question, and a hope that they would answer. Though there was a hint of peace, there was still distress. There was still pain in his voice and body. It hurt.

It hurts so much.
(Malikos Caelum)
[17:28] Though Sethon is late to this ordeal, for reasons that strike frustration plainly across his countenance, he is careful not to interrupt;

With Malikos' plea to join him in prayer, without the goofy accent that rendered any notion of intelligence obsolete, there is a request, so sincere and true, that the Angels themselves might have wept in pity.

A little pity was what Orsona needed.

And so, without uttering a word, palms clasp and head bows in acknowledgement and respect.
(Sethon)
[17:34] Could the Church convince Alabastre and Theria? The former would require coin to stay out. This Del knows. Could they perhaps...?

It's fueled by many reasons. Most personal and dear to them. The others for less lives to be ended and the conclusion of a foolish war.

"If you want Alabastre to remove themselves, coin will make them. They're only with Myllenoris for that..."

It had little meaning to them so, they're willing to give what they can for dear, childhood friends to remove themself from this bloody war.

"Theria may be tricky. I've recently been involved with a Therian who refused to cooperate and leave Osrona while we are at war with them. It got physically after she didn't listen to the authority of both the Order and Church."

A few Knights and Del.

"However, it would have gotten that way had we refused to leave Theria as well." Words spoken to the Stellus... Then they looked to the side. Them worthy of Stellus? "I'm very glad you're the Stellus. It's one that fits you...."

They turned a bit in their seat, hands on their lap, eyes closed, listening to the Deacon's words. Their mind was scattered. The exepedition heavy on their thoughts.
(Del mer Joyau)
[17:36] With his hat removed, and head bowed, his eyes close and he joins in the prayer. The times were painful, there was loss, blood, and war.

Even so? They had to have hope. His hands came together, and though his light was dimmed, he prayed all the same to the stars and angels above. Listening to the words of Malikos, he nods.

"Stars, we believe in peace, and we believe in your guidance. We believe that as the ones you choose, select in our intiation, that we might be able to be a voice that you hold hope in, that many can hold hope in."

"We need help. We will need a lot of help in the coming days, guidance. I would ask, if it is possible, for you to assist us, for you to bless us, and for you to hold hope in us. For us to continue to believe, to have faith, to hold high morale."

"The world is painful. The world can be cruel. But I hope that your hope in us touches us, that we are able to do the things we set our minds to. Please help us now."

"For all life has meaning. Please help us be strong, and may our successors, the ones who come after us, believe in us and the choices we make."

The finality of the prayer as his voice remained bow. In silence for a few moments before giving a small nod towards Del.

"Perhaps. Do you think you could talk to them of how much coin they might require? And.. Thank you."

"For all your kind words, Del." A small nod.
(Romani cos Montclaire)