The Warbler
An idea for a new form of government?
By Rosella Maple
₊˚ ✧ ━━━━⊱𝄞⊰━━━━ ✧ ₊˚
On the 16th of Highsun, the residents of Spiretown found something in their doorsteps: a manifesto written by former councilor Meriel Noctis. The paper detailed a radical change to how the government is organized: An elected Steward who would sit as the sole elected official, with the Councilors being personally appointed, and acting more as advisors to inform them.
When asked about the matter, Meriel Noctis had this to say:
"A fair question. As it stands, the Circle of Four holds no formal authority in times of emergency—their impact is defined not by law, but by who happens to sit within it. One does not see mandates passed by those who merely wish they had done more, but by those who act, deliberately, with the time given." "In that sense, yes—anyone may rise in the Spire. But presently, it is often the loudest voices that sway the most ears. The Circle bears no true structure to shepherd the city with, and its members, however well-meaning, differ greatly in experience, intent, and capacity."
"Consider instead a Steward—one who appoints experts not by popularity, but by capability. Would you entrust military command to a Circle without a single veteran, rather than to the seasoned captains of the Militia?" "A soldier should shape strategy, not plead for permission to speak. But such change cannot be imposed. It must be chosen. What I offer is not a command, but a vision—one born of my time in the Spire, and the path I believe may serve it best."
When I asked what she thought of those who felt she would be giving too much power to one person, this is what she said:
"Then I suspect they've not read the writings in earnest. The Steward may appoint councilors—but at no point is The Steward beyond removal. Should they falter in duty or fall to corruption, the councilors themselves—or a body such as the Petitioners' Forum, in which any group may claim a seat—hold the right to call for their dismissal."
"Some may fear a closed circle of power, but accountability is built into the very bones of the system. The people retain the means to petition, to challenge, and—if ignored—to act. If a Steward refuses to answer their calls, the law allows the people to remove them. That, I believe, is how power should function: held briefly, and only with trust. Never above reproach—always in service."
But does everyone agree with this change? First, I reached out to the public on this matter.
"Quite honestly, that would aid with the ah... as it was put, indecision, no?” Said one commenter, who wished to remain anonymous. “A number of voices unable to come to a unified stance... though it would greatly depend on who would be this 'steward'."
"...I like the ideals of servant leadership, and the acceptance of criticism bit. I think those are things that can and should be adopted by the council." Said Meridy Illuma, who ran for councilor earlier in Highsun. "I'm not sure there's really anyone in the town I would trust with sole stewardship of the place though; I do like how we have multiple people checking and sharing power."
But what of the Elected Officials? What did they have to say? I reached out for comments from each of the newly elected Council of Four.
"Ah, aye. Twas in the midst of reading on my way out. It seems a well thought out philosophy of her experiences as councilor,” Said Ser Adrien. “Tis well she sought to share her view, it certainly gives thoughts of how to lead and how not to lead. Such perspective is quite good to be able to look at, especially starting in this position. Even if not every part shall be incorporated, I believe it to hold valuable insight.”
When I asked for any other thoughts, Ser Adrien said this:
"Seemst a thing many should read and see what, if anything resonate with them." They then give a nod. "Tis all I really have to say on the matter." They said, when asked for more thoughts.
Yuna Moontusk had this to say:
"I am well aware of the manifesto our dearest former councilwoman Meriel Noctis had written. I was her aide during the latter half of her tenure. I believe her vision to be sound, but it is not one we could force. The Spire would have to vote to accept such an idea to create a Steward of the Spire. Every great kingdom of our time has a singular ruler that is guided and advised by councilors. Even Fallstone still has a singular head of their governing body. As the Spire grows, so too should the governing body that oversees and acts on its behalf. "
As for Eithna Primriver, she said this.
"Yes--Meriel's address to the new Circle of Four. First off--Her request to keep the doors unbarred. We've visited her gatherings for info dissemination. Not the spectacle that some search for, but they have been vital. We can't rely on ceremony and gathering alone to address questions and concerns, after all. There is no disagreement there, from us.”
“Then--The petition system. A similar thought to the first--Though, it's restricted to the hall. An additional place, where more eyes would see it would be of benefit."
"Then lastly, the dueling law restrictions. Codified guidelines for dueling, so that those scuffles at the fighting pit don't turn into all out brawls. The proposal is acceptable, and has our approval. That is what I have to say on it."
When asked, Penelope Periwinkle said:
"I quite like Meriel's thoughts upon the council, and I especially appreciate her thoughts on virtue. It is always my firm belief that we, the council, are not above the people... But instead, meant to serve the Spire and do our best as public servants... We are just people, the same as you, and thusly should not hold our heads as if we are your betters."
"Meriel is a brilliant woman, with an even greater heart... I know that we take her words in high regards, especially since she has done quite a bit for us as people!"
It seems that the Council of Four agree with Meriel on this matter. Perhaps change is in the air, and we may see this new form of government in our lifetimes. Maybe even within this very term. Whatever happens, we will report on it.
