#tracelessplotdrop1

Australian werewolf Fritz Barrow was imprisoned in a semi-spherical space created with magic commonly known as “The Dome” beginning August 21. The decision was made by Council Leader Ethan Schuyler, but without the vote or even support of the council majority. In fact, liaisons Mort Donald, Marnie Jeong, and Laurel have all publicly and separately voiced their discontent with Schuyler’s actions and called for Barrow’s release.

It has been announced that at sundown on August 25, Barrow is set to be released from The Dome.

This follows a series of informal meetings between various members of the Village Council, as well as a formal meeting at 3 in the morning on August 25. The result of the vote was apparently to release Barrow.

The Traceless Protectorate Council Witch that put up this most recent Dome, Paul Kuhn, was visibly distressed by the situation when questioned. He claimed he “did not know what came over him” in casting the spell, and has agreed with the Dome’s removal. He has requested the week off from his TPC duties to take some personal time.

Well, it looks like there is another message pinned to the Traceless Bulletins board. This one is penned in remarkably neat and legible handwriting, along with a pinned photograph of the writer- Traceless Council Human Liaison Marnie Jeong.

I would dislike for my perceived silence on the topic of the “The Dome” and the equity of Traceless citizens to be perceived as apathy. I feel incredibly strongly about this matter, and have voiced as much to my fellow Council Liaisons and the individuals I have been fortunate enough to speak with regarding this important topic.

I stand with the werewolves of Traceless as an ally, and I will continue to use my voice on their behalf. Mort Donald’s thoughts have been in line with mine from the beginning, and it is incredibly important to me to support his voice. I count Mort as a friend and know the feeling is mutual. We have discussed on numerous occasions the rise we have seen in sentiments of fear against werewolves. This frightens me, and I know it is wrong with all of my heart. 

Words hold power, and not just in the casting of spells. What we say to and about each other matters, which is why I waited so long to write something on this board. I feared usurping Mort’s voice, or in having my written words misinterpreted. Now I understand that I need not be afraid to tell everyone how I voted regarding both Domes.

My vote was a no for both Domes. Mort and I stood in unity for both votes. We understood that even that first vote, a dangerous precedent stood a chance of being created that would assist in fostering fear of werewolves. While this allowed an “optional” solution for keeping those newly swapped werewolves from being a danger to themselves or others, werewolves were not consulted about the implementation. Notably, no members of council would have been in werewolf bodies at the time of the full moon, so it may have seemed easy to make this vote from a distance. Whether it is officially precedent or not, the affirmative vote has created the precedent that the Dome can be used to contain werewolves... and for now, only werewolves.

This targeting may not last. Whomever is deemed dangerous or unsavory may see themselves targeted next. For now, though, the problem lies in disenfranchising our werewolf friends and family, and this cannot continue.

I am deeply appreciative that two more members of the council voted with me and Mort to prevent the second Dome from being permitted to continue. That was not a case of emergency, and was a gross abuse of power. Ethan Schuyler is a dedicated politician on many fronts, but he is short-sighted when it comes to listening to what the people of Traceless need and deserve the right to have. The world is not the same place it was even thirty years ago. With the rise of digital communication, news travels faster than ever. I understand that ‘safety’ as a concept is of prime concern to many, but the messaging may infringe on the rights and- dare I say- safety of others.

I will make a concerted effort to continue to make my perspective known and give increased transparency to my voting record. The council does not publish how the vote of council is divided, and I can see how this can create some apprehension in the community. My votes and thoughts are not a secret that I need to keep. Please feel free to ask me at any time about my thoughts, and I value yours as well. I have strong convictions when it comes to advocating for the rights of those that need it, and that is only furthered when I can hear the voices of our beautiful and diverse community.

Thank you very much for your time, and know that it is never a bother to speak with me- even if you believe our thoughts may differ.  It has been my deepest honor to serve Traceless on its council, and I intend to continue to do my best in capacity as a liaison. 

"Although the intention of the forum was an openminded question and answer session, I must admit I am feeling remorseful for my actions. I... apologize for the difficulties you have faced in this particular instance." It seemed very difficult for Ethan to say this.

"It can be difficult to express nuance and provide promises in a public forum like this before having a chance to discuss with the council. I'm not in the business of making empty promises. I can see where that might leave a bad taste in your mouth. That's exactly why I think a one on one conversation would help, and I would be happy to stop by your business," Ethan said with a small smile.

--

"With all due respect, this is a question and answer session and not a trial. I can point you toward your boss if you have any further questions regarding police cooperation on the evening in question. Good day, Detective."

"While I appreciate visitors to Traceless taking an interest in our town, this forum was intended primarily those who reside or own property in Traceless. Your opinions have been noted, but as I have said to several citizens at this point, I have no intentions of carrying out similar acts in the future. I respect the opinions of those that clearly disapprove, and look forward to implementing regulations around this new magical tool to ensure it is not used in a way counter to the will of the town's citizens."

"As I said to the last person, we were more broadly discussing general tactics. He was one of the first people I notified after ensuring Barrow would not burgle me further in the most secure way available to me at the time. I cannot speak for the Chief otherwise."