"Indeed we are about to vote," Drax replied. "And I wish for the Council to again consider that voting in favor of this action will only bring us trouble. Remeber Delamkros. And might I also remind everyone that this offer of Venger's has enjoyed the Princess's full support!""This is quite true," the Princess answered in reply to any surprised expressions made by the ambassadors of the Shadow Riders. "We truly gave Venger Our complete cooperation, until the newly arrived Outworlders risked their lives to free Us from the unnatural influence that clouded Our judgement."
Tolan had to fight to restrain himself from jumping up and shouting in triumph at the Princess' support of the Outworlders. "Very well, then, my Lady," he said with a respectful nod to the Princess. "I call for the vote now. I cast my lot in favor of accepting the offer of the Shadow Riders and commissioning them to attack Venger's army."
"I cast my vote against!" Drax said, to no one's surprise.
"I...cast my vote against, as well," Lady Selora added hesitantly. Looking apologetic, she explained, "I don't want there to be any more fighting."
"I vote in favor!" Lady Areela said vehemently, as if Selora's reasoning had spurred her to this level of feeling. "I have children, too, and I would rather see them fight, and yes, perhaps even die, defending Yarfell's freedom, rather than wearing Venger's chains!"
"I..." Lord Dalor flushed as he felt everyone looking at him. "I vote in favor, as well. I believe the Shadow Riders are telling the truth." More correctly, he was so new on the Council that he was nervously taking his cues from Lord Tolan, and if the Elder of the Council believed this was the correct couse of action, then so did he.
It was now the Princess's turn. As the supreme ruler of Yarfell, the decision was ultimately hers, but, as it always had been, the ruler took the advice of the Council into consideration before making such an important decision.
"The vote is three in favor, two against," Princess Diana said calmly. "We certify this vote, and believe that the Council guides Us well. It is agreed, Captain Irzen of the Shadow Riders. We shall bestow upon you Our Royal Commission and supply you to ride forth against Venger's army."
