1989 TRANSCRIPT OF THE GARMONT ASSEMBLY

[JudgeTrudy 610]

 

– 1989 TRANSCRIPT OF THE GARMONT ASSEMBLY –

Issued and averred by the office of
 

Atstana de Regne Petrère 134

 

 

---

 

ROLL CALL

 

PRESENT

 

 The Duchy of Vohenheim
Representative Aurel von Theonus

 

The County of Hohengarten
Representative Konstantin Leon von Augusten

 

The Barony of Feldkirch
Representative Katrin Eryka Stafyr

 

The Barony of Fir’steinn
Representatives Li-Jun

 

The Free Port of Chambery
Representative Nicolas von Wittenbach

 

First People’s Seat of the Petra
Representative Karol Aleksander Walewski

 

Second People’s Seat of  the Petra
Representative Parzifal af Brasca

 

Third People’s Seat of Petra
Representative David Bishop Casica

 

ABSENT

 

The County of Anairgrid

Adelyn Reinhold

 

The Legion of Saint Godwin
Representative Matthew Smythe

 

The Lord-Mayor of Vallagne
Representative Sorrel Auclair

 

---

 

Opening Statements

Presented by: Grand Speaker, Theodore Elwood

 

TRANSCRIPT

 

Spoiler

Theodore Elwood: “Greetings to you all. Thank you for your attendance. Today marks our first assembly together since the dissolution of the Confederation. I know times have been stressful here and abroad, but let us sit together now with some excitement, shall we? Now, I am aware that most of you are fairly familiar with the processes of this institution, but we do have some new faces in our ranks.”

 

Theodore Elwood: “So allow me to explain a few quick things so that we might hold this meeting with some efficiency. First we will do a roll call, to acknowledge who is present, and who is missing out on the fun. We will begin with Sir Karol and go in order until we reach Sir Parzifal. Afterward, for today's assembly, I have two bills for us to review. When a bill is proposed, usually it will be the author or a sponsor who steps up here and introduces it to us all. Afterward, I will open the floor to any who have questions or comments on the proposed legislation.

 

Theodore Elwood: “When I open the floor, I will comment on whether or not we will be in Open or Moderated debate. The former allows all to speak freely - though still respectfully - to the rest of the Garmont until sufficient discussion is had. The latter, Moderated debate, will require those who wish to speak to raise their hand and wait with patience until called upon to speak. I will be lenient today, toward mistakes in these processes. But do remember to be kind and respectful to those gathered here today. We are all passionate about the future of the Petran state and will certainly have big feelings about things presented, but we are all honorable adults. Let us behave as such.” 

 

Theodore Elwood: “Now then, let us begin the roll call, beginning with Their Highness, the Baron of Fir'steinn.”

Jun of Astor: “Present.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Karol Walewski, Present.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “Nicolas Wittenbach, representing Chambery, present.” 

Aurel von Theonus: “Hallo I'm Aurel! Representing Vohenheim.” 

Katrin Eryka Stafyr: “Katrin Stafyr, representing Feldkirch.” 

Konstantin Leon: “Lord Konstantin Leon von Augusten, representing the County of Hohengarten.” 

Father Davide: “Oh, I forgot that I was next. I am present, yes.” 

Sir Parzifal: “Parzifal af Brasca, present.”

 

TRANSCRIPT CONCLUDES

 

 

---

 

The Catherinian Code

Proposed by: Grand Speaker, Theodore Elwood, on behalf of the River Council

 

TRANSCRIPT

 

Spoiler

Theodore Elwood: “Wonderful. Let us begin with our first topic, then. Since our independence, we have been running off of the Catherinian Code from before the Confederation. Now, though, the revised version of our laws is up to us to review and, if deemed acceptable, pass through.

 

As the bill was read by those assembled, Sir Jon de Lewes entered the Assembly floor. The following is in response:

Theodore Elwood: “How can I help you, sir?” 

Sir Jon de Lewes: “I'm on the regency council, Lord Speaker. I am here today regarding a resolution to be discussed after this.” 

 

Theodore Elwood: “We shall now open to Moderated debate. Please raise your hand if you wish to speak or ask a question.” 

Father Davide raises his hand. “It is an acceptable law code, though I would like to have a legal review committee established. Just to periodically review it without needing to debate these matters on the floor of the Garmont. It saves time.” 

Aurel von Theonus raised his hand.

Theodore Elwood: “The Duke of Vohenheim is recognized.” 

Aurel von Theonus: “Article V section 1, subsction 4. I propose a change to this line, because not everyone who wishes to move here is canonist. The state can, and should, encourage its citizens to be baptized, but I fear this could turn people away.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski raised his hand. 

Theodore Elwood: “It is possible to amend it before it is sent to the Crown. Is that all for now?” 

Aurel von Theonus: “Ja.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Oh, I was just going to second the proposal presented by Duke Aurel.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “I third the proposal from Duke Aurel,” 

Theodore Elwood: “If no one else has anything to comment on or ask, we shall proceed to a vote.

Theodore Elwood: “We shall begin with the Representative for the Second People's Seat, then. For the passing of the bill, please either vote Aye, Nay, or you may wish to abstain. We will go in order.” 

Parzifal: “Aye.” 

Father Davide: “Aye.” 

Konstantin Leon: “Aye.” 

Aurel von Theonus: “Aye.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Aye.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “Oui, I mean Aye.” 

Jun of Astor: “Xi.” 

Theodore Elwood: “With unanimous approval, the new Catherinian Code passes with the acknowledgement of amending one line.”

 

TRANSCRIPT CONCLUDES

 

VOTES OF THE ASSEMBLY

 

 The Duchy of Vohenheim
Representative Aurel von Theonus

IN FAVOR

 

 The County of Hohengarten
Representative Konstantin Leon von Augusten

IN FAVOR

 

The Barony of Feldkirch
Representative Katrin Eryka Stafyr

IN FAVOR

 

The Barony of Fir’steinn
Representatives Li-Jun

IN FAVOR

 

The Free Port of Chambery
Representative Nicolas von Wittenbach

IN FAVOR

 

First People’s Seat of the Petra
Representative Karol Aleksander Walewski

IN FAVOR

 

Second People’s Seat of  the Petra
Representative Parzifal af Brasca

IN FAVOR

 

Third People’s Seat of Petra
Representative David Bishop Casica

IN FAVOR

 

CONCLUSION

The Assembly agreed upon one change to the proposed bill with little debate on the subject. With a unanimous vote of eight Ayes, the bill passed with the acknowledgement the aforementioned line would be edited before being sent to the Crown.

 

 

---

 

Proclamation of Neutrality

Proposed by: Jon de Lewes, on behalf of the Regency Council
 

TRANSCRIPT

 

Spoiler

Karol Aleksander Walewski raised his hand.

Jon de Lewes: “Lord Speaker, does this resolution require a member of the Regency Council to introduce it?” 

Theodore Elwood: “If you wish to.”

Konstantin Leon: “Ja, please, Sir Jon.” He said, with an approving nod. 

Jon de Lewes takes the stand.

Jon de Lewes: “Lords, ladies, elected members. Before I begin, I must confess that these parliamentary procedures are not well known to me. Many know me as a very reserved person. To be frank, this resolution at its very heart, is needless of an introduction. The sentiments of it are well known to us, as Petrans. Let us, as Petra, make it very clear to the international community. We will not levy the lives of our own for Aaun, whom not only has kinslayed, but has plotted against this nation at every opportunity.”

 

Jon de Lewes: “We are at no obligation to activate our defensive clause, as there is no legality which requires it. This war is a response to the actions of Charles the Second. It is his war, more than it is Tiberias'. This resolution makes it clear that we stand united with the Princes of Numendil and Hyspia, and more importantly, with the Mother church. And our actions will be transparent; in lock and step with the wishes of His Holiness. Thank you.”

 

Karol Aleksander Walewski raised his hand. 

Theodore Elwood: “We shall indeed move forward with Moderated debate. The Representative for the First People's Seat is acknowledged to speak first.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Is the matter of Aaunic culpability not complicated by the declarations against Aaun by both Norland and Urguan? Do we not have an obligation to honor a defensive treaty in light of Invasion by pagan entities?” 

Jon de Lewes raises his hand. 

Theodore Elwood: “If the member of the Regency Council wishes to answer, he may.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Let us not lose the forest for the trees here, this is a thinly veiled power grab by Blackvale, as evidenced by their own demand that Tiberias be placed in de facto control of Aaun and the complete removal of the house of Alstion”

 

Jon de Lewes: “Are we forgetting that the crimes of Charles are grounds for excommunication? I would agree with you if this war was unwarranted, but to be quite frank, this war started when Charles's forces attacked Ravenmire. If kinslaying wasn't enough, he attacked another Canonist leader. The legality of our defensive clause is not applicable here.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Respectfully, I know that better than most. But the charges of Kinslaying is for the Church to levy and administer, not a Foreign power.” 

Jon de Lewes: “Did this war not start when Aaunic soldiers attacked Ravenmire? How weak would it look, as us Petrans, if we let our soldiers go to die for a man that once wished for the complete annihilation of the Petran state?”

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “I have more reason than most to want to avoid war with Ravenmire, but are we to stand aside while a neighboring state is dismantled by Pagans and Veletzian pretenders?” 

Jon de Lewes: “I am surprised when most when I say this, but I am confident that Tiberias is in good standing with the Mother Church. So long as we adhere by the wishes of His Holiness, we have no reason to worry.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Is the presence of an unknown, likely hostile, entity and the destruction of a Canonist state truly worth our feelings of moral superiority? Better the devil we know, I say.” 

Jon de Lewes: “Canonist states have been warring for years. The Riverlands stand to gain from this neutrality, here.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach raises hand. 

Jon de Lewes: “You advocate for some Heartland patriotism - that we should stand with our neighbor. You forget what this 'neighbor' has done to us!”. 

Theodore Elwood: “Alright, order!” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Do I? I FOUGHT the Marnan Brigade, while you yourself stood with them.” 

Theodore Elwood:  “ORDER!”

Aurel von Theonus rose his hand.

Jon de Lewes: “I stood for peace and unity. Don't forget that, or I'll show you myse-” He paused, at the Speaker's motion. 

Katrin Eryka Stafyr: “Should we not honour our pacts, either way. Turn the other cheek? Why should we act like the Aaunish would.”

 

Theodore Elwood: “Might I remind everyone here that this topic, while one of grave severity, shall be debated and discussed with respect for members in attendance. The purpose of this topic was to hear the voices representing the many peoples of our country. Does the gentleman representing the First Seat have any other questions or comments on this matter, or does he yield to others?” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “I yield.” 

Theodore Elwood: “The Duke of Vohenheim is invited to speak.”

Theodore Elwood: “Pardon, the gentleman from Chambery is invited to speak first.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “I agree with both arguments. Firstly I do firmly believe that Petra is a Neutral Nation in many matters and a Nation that stands for peace. However one needs to even earn the state of Neutrality, We have agreed to a Defensive pact as we parted with Aaun - And we just passed a law saying that every Petran shall keep their word and promises. At the same time I know the harsh sentiments there are around, I too have them, But I believe it is not weakness to hold our word, same time we should first and formost also align with the church on this, hence I still find this proclamation agreable.” 

Jon de Lewes: “Hear, hear.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “And as Stated, if Aaun has started this war, then it is a war of aggression not of defence. That is all I have to say.” 

Aurel von Theonus: “Once we were appointed to this regency council, I asked what the queen's stance was regarding the war on our border, and neutrality was the answer.”

 

Father Davide raises his hand.

Theodore Elwood: “The representative for the Third People's Seat is recognized to speak.” 

Father Davide: “I would first like to clarify that the position taken by the regency council is in line with what the Church has issued thus far. No general call to rally to Aaun has been made, and the neutrality of Numendil and Hyspia have been confirmed. Should there be any changes, I will be the first to hear of them.” 

Father Davide: “Entering this session of the Garmont, I was aligned to indifference or opposition to the policy regardless, but I thought back to when I first came here just over thirty years ago. Petra was embroiled in a great war in the Midlands. The gates of the city were shut. The streets were utterly empty. A scant few souls passed throughout the realm as the war dragged into its long years. However, upon the war's conclusion, the gates were lifted, economic activity returned, and my good friend, Rigoberto de la Cruz, spearheaded a total revival of the city, centered around a tavern bustling with patrons. Life and vitality was restored to the Petra. We have only barely begun the road of recovery, and entering into another long war would certainly kill that. It would disrupt our national unity as well, as I know most Petrans are loathe to fight with the Aaunish. However, even these considerations did not yet lead me to endorse neutrality.” 

 

Father Davide: “It was not until, mere hours before I descended from the monastery, that I was informed of the actions of Cardinal Jean, Bishop over the lands of Aaun, who has engaged in schismatic talk against His Holiness on account of the investigation of King Charles and the Marnan Brigade. He asserts that His Holiness, in his attempt to uphold Canon Law equally, is an agent of the Veletzi. This is radical talk and suggests to me that they will act as they wish to avoid the judgment of the Church. I pray that this is not the case, but this rhetoric has taken a step too far for me to advocate for standing beside them. I will continue to forbid any action taken against Aaun, but I withdraw any opposition to this edict of neutrality.” 

Jon de Lewes raises his hand. 

Father Davide: “Let it be said as well that I will not forbid any private citizens from taking arms with Aaun if they wish.” 

 

Theodore Elwood: “Do any other members wish to provide their own opinions to be given to the Crown? If not, I shall invite the member of the Regency Council to speak.” 

Aurel von Theonus: “Well that says it better than I could have.” 

Bon'Ox raises his hand from the viewing platform.

Theodore Elwood: “The member from the Regency Council is invited to speak. Though he is reminded to remain respectable and concise.” 

Jon de Lewes nods. “I would merely like to echo similar sentiments. This resolution ensures that all we do is keep our matters aligned with the Church. They could very well call us to arms, and we would.” - “I yield my time to the Lord Speaker.” 

Theodore Elwood addresses Bon’Ox: “Does the man in the gallery have a question for me?” 

Bon’Ox: “Oh no. Just a suggestion. If the Holy Mother Church tells you to hold onto the pact - then do so with honor. Declare to Ravenmire & their allies that you've set out onto the battlefield only out of  honor and duty & only fight in defensives battles. If you capture anyone on their side - let them go.”

Theodore Elwood: “With that, if no other members have anything to say, then we shall conclude the matter of the Regency Council's statement on the Aaunic conflict.”

 

Aurel von Theonus raised his hand once more. 

Theodore Elwood: “The Duke of Vohenheim is recognized.” 

Aurel von Theonus: “The missive carries more weight with more buy-in. Is there anyone present who would like to add their signature to the document before we send it for the world to see?” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “I would love to sign oui.” 

Jun of Astor: “I'll add my signature.” 

Parzifal: “I will as well.” 

Father Davide: “As a member of the Church, it would be best if I did not officially endorse the policy, but the Third People's Seat of the Garmont may have its signature affixed.” 

Jon de Lewes: “Cheers to that.” 

 

Theodore Elwood: “With this topic concluded, and no other submitted bills, I shall motion for this session to come to a close.” 

Jon de Lewes: “Seconded.” 

Nicolas Wittenbach: “Thirded.” 

Konstantin Leon: “Fourthed.” 

Father Davide: “Fifthed.” 

Karol Aleksander Walewski: “Fifthed.” 

Theodore Elwood: “Then we adjourn. Thank you all who came today. I know it was a slog at times, but this is only our first session. The next time we meet, we shall begin the real fun. And hopefully under continued peace.”

 

TRANSCRIPT CONCLUDES

 

 

CONCLUSION

The Regency Council's statement on the ongoing conflict between Ravenmire and Aaun was put before the Garmont Assembly before being published. After some passionate exchanging of words, some members of the Garmont Assembly agreed to sign their names upon the proclamation. As this was a statement for discussion, and not a proposed bill, the Proclamation was not put to a vote. After the completed debate, a motion was put forward by the Grand Speaker to adjourn this session, which was passed.

---

 

S I G N E D ,

HIS EXCELLENCY, Theodore Elwood, Grand Speaker of the Petra.

Edited August 12, 2024 by JudgeTrudy
Fixed some awkward spacing.