My fellow Achaeans,

"Just moments ago, I spoke with the citizenry of Ashtan and
congratulated them on becoming the next holder of the Effigy of Victory,
and I promised them that I wouldn't call him back this time"

"Well, in that same spirit, I say to Effigy holder-elect Ashtan that
what remains of partisan rancor must now be put aside, and may Sarapis
bless their stewardship of this honor."

"Neither they nor us anticipated this long and difficult road. Certainly
neither of us wanted it to happen. Yet it came, and now it has ended,
resolved, as it must be resolved, through the honored institutions of
the divine."

"Now the divine Garden of Gods has spoken. Let there be no doubt, while
I strongly disagree with their decision, I accept it. I accept the
finality of this outcome which will be ratified this month. And tonight,
for the sake of our unity of the people and the strength of our realm, I
offer my concession."

"I know that many of our supporters are disappointed. I am too. But our
disappointment must be overcome by our love of capture the flag."

"Some have expressed concern that the unusual nature of this event might
hamper the next victor in the conduct of their participation. I do not
believe it need be so."

"While we yet hold and do not yield our opposing beliefs, there is a
higher duty than the one we owe to political city. This is Achaea and we
put realm before city. We will stand together behind our new victor"

"Thank you and good night, and Sarapis bless Achaea."

-Elysian Kail

Penned by my hand on the 18th of Ero, in the year 371 AF.