To the Hand of the God-Emperor:

I have decided to take a breath before putting pen to paper in this response, particularly due to the sensitive diplomatic nature of the situation.

First, let me say that your clarification is appreciated. If I understand correctly: the Thalassan Empire will not obstruct King Tu'eras's proposed tribunal, and Skye B. Anchors remains free to participate or decline as she chooses. This is a reasonable position, and I believe that Skye's previous response establishing certain protections in light of potential conspiracy are reasonable, too, with room for equally reasonable negotiation.

However, I must address a fundamental misunderstanding. This tribunal is investigative, not punitive. Its purpose is to examine evidence and establish facts - specifically, whether Skye bears responsibility for the theft, and the nature of her association with the deceased waiter and Four Winds Catering.

No one has proposed "laying punishment" against Skye. King Tu'eras explicitly stated: "If she is innocent, then her name must be cleared in a manner that leaves no room for doubt. If she is complicit, then consequence must follow in proportion to what is proven."

An investigation must precede any discussion of consequences. To speak of punishment before examining evidence puts the cart before the horse.

Should the tribunal find Skye bore no responsibility - which you indicate is the truth the Nerai already know - then no consequence would follow, and her name would be cleared publicly. This benefits everyone, particularly Skye herself.

You state that only those with "authority to judge" matter, and that excludes "all of us." Yet King Tu'eras is the sovereign of the kingdom where the alleged theft occurred. Surely he has standing to investigate a crime in his own realm? And if not, who does?

I suspect we may be speaking past each other on the question of authority and jurisdiction. Perhaps this could be clarified: Does the Thalassan Empire contest Aalen's right to investigate crimes that occur within its borders? Or does the Empire simply assert that any findings would not be binding upon Thalassan citizens without Imperial approval?

These are meaningfully different positions.

Finally, regarding your opening remark about inventing words - I confess I'm uncertain which word you reference. If I have misrepresented your position, please correct me directly so I may understand your meaning clearly.

In Song,
Taelle Starling

Penned by my hand on the 20th of Sarapin, in the year 998 AF.