the Councilman, "they know the real relationship
that you and Northern Star share."
86 Morn stepped closer. "Watch your words, Councilman," he snapped, "or
even in this Hall I will claim the right of blood. Because you and my
uncle climbed in bed together, do not think that other men cannot
simply be friends without sharing your sickness!"
87 "My Lord God," complained the Councilman, "can your Councilman not
speak openly in The Hall Of Truth without the threat of blood?"
88 "My Councilman," answered The Lord God, "should remember to who he
speaks, and be grateful that I do not allow the challenge. My son would
cut out your heart with the first stroke. I have given Morn permission
to represent the accused, and to speak on their defense. Is there
anyone else here that objects to my decision?"
89 There was no other Councilman foolish enough to register a
complaint. Morn took his place beside his father's throne and waited
for the proceedings to begin. When the Chamberlain banged his staff for
order, the first Councilman rose. "There is little to discuss," he
began. "The matter before us is finished before we even begin. The Law
is clear; anyone raising their hand against any member of The Holy
Family must
forfeit his life ....and, all members of his immediate family; wife,
children, must die with him. That is The Law."
90 "I object," Morn interrupted. "That is not The Law. True, it is the
Law that anyone attacking The God Family must die, but it is merely a
tradition that his next of kin die with him. Many times The Lord God
has been merciful to the wives and children of traitors. Must I remind
you that my own Grandmother, The Mother of The Lord God, was the
daughter of a
traitor, who attempted to murder my Grandfather, and seize the throne?
My Grandfather begged the then Lord God to spare her, and her brothers
and sisters so there be no unnecessary
blood on his marriage. Do you challenge the wisdom of THAT decision?
The product of it sits beside me."