Hearken, smallfolk of The Spire,

A stronghold is not made mighty by its stone alone, nor from the heights of its towers, but by the strength, order, and unity of those who dwell within. Though us in The Spire are uncounted- a place where none of its smallfolk can say with certainty who belongs and who is merely a vagabond.
To this, I say, is the first failing that must be rectified.

On the Matter of Citizenship and Census

No guard should protect that which is unknown to him, and no stronghold is capable of holding its own whilst its smallfolk continue to remain unreckoned.
Thus, with my chancellorship, I would forge a census. Every single man, woman and child shall state their claimed residence within the bounds of The Spire. Their names, ages and sexes shall also be recorded- 'tis a meagre exchange that shall arise the foundation of who is to be protected and seen as a neighbor.

Mark this well, smallfolk — with protection comes thy duty.
For a citizen is not merely just one who resides in The Spire but one who is surely bound. Thou shalt uphold the laws of the Spire, to hear its call, and you are expected to stand as a piece of its whole.
From this measure, the smallfolk are able to distinguish our own from the outsider. We can recognize the rogue and the wanderer- be they assassin or refugee from the Faded Steppes. Smallfolk, this is not cruelty but an action to ensure clarity. This is not an action solely based on exclusion but in holding the correct hand.
For we shan't be a stronghold that invites chaos to eat at our table.

On Unity Within

Look not first to lands of distance while discord walks amongst us.
The Spire and its Undercity are bound, whether the smallfolk like it or not. To neglect their ability to parley is to incite division; this division shall ensure The Spires' downfall.
I say we make efforts to mend what is seemingly frayed.
Place understanding where there may be suspicion. Smallfolk and Seneschalty- cooperate instead of scorn. If you continue to make efforts for a divided stronghold, then no wall or man shall stand firm against what lies beyond.
Friendship is not softness; it is might.

On Vampirism and The Dinah Act

To a matter most grave and may place thee therein.
The Dinah Act, as it is written, is a hollow decree. So hollow infact that it shall be known locally as The Diner Act, for it offers no true sanction to the pickings of the beasts. The act names feeding 'pon the living as just an assault — this is an assault of the soul as their kind should never have a right or reason to touch or breathe near us. With this pathetic act, there is to be practically no hand raised in defense of the innocent- nor any true burden for the fanged reprobates.

The act itself is so lacking that it borders on mockery.
Unregistered vampires shall never register themselves 'pon having knowledge that their name is to be publicly announced- you should paint the infected's door red as to beckon hunters inside. Perhaps we are the true Midnight Circus.
With my influence, I'll consistently suggest such beings, being the unregistered, be seized and detained till a cure is to be found. There is to be no advantage given to those sullied folk who would seek us as a neighbor.
Our guard force should never become placed in peril by this feeble act. The smallfolk do not deserve to dwell in fear when it is the hour of rest.

On the Governance of Magic

Magic is no small craft. It is a force that elevates a man above his neighbor. A force that may heal, trick, or decimate in equal measure.
To leave such a force unmarked is a tragic folly.
Therefore, I believe and shall put pressure on those who wield magic within the Spire. They should be known by the general populace with their names recorded. One place within The Spire may one be instructed in this craft, within a hall of learning. There and only there may their craft be practiced so that their actions are accounted for.
This is no tyranny – 'tis a prudence.
For how may a man simply step into his own street with safety if he knows not of what lingers in shadow? Knowledge is paramount for security.

On the Matter of Valkian Influence

To the north of us, the Valkian Realm wages its wars.
Smallfolk, such a force does not waltz outward with no purpose.
If the smallfolk bend their knee with haste, if they throw gifts and submission as though they were a dog, then The Spire is sending a message. The message being that we desire to be part of their design.

With this we ingratiate ourselves in their wars.
I shall never stand for that.
Relations are to be maintained, naturally, though we are to never sell dignity nor The Spire's sovereignty.
I am a son, a native of the Southern Reach- I am Dagdan. My life would be given if these lands of mine are to be reduced to a mere extension of a Valk.
Some of you may have no respect for culture and tradition, as you have none, though let that be your burden alone.

My Vision for the Southern Realm

Hear me plain:
I seek unity.
A Southern Realm wherein each major group stands sovereign within its border. Their land is to be governed by its own native laws.
Though a banner shall be raised, signifying a fellowship of powers — where trading, negotiation, and standing side-by-side when danger arises from any quarter comes into question.
No conquering, kneeling or cookies required.

Vote Dagda.

A TINY, UNSIGNED ADDENDUM IS COPIED FROM THE SENESCHALTY DIRECTORY,
AND TACKED ONTO THE MAJOR NOTICE BOARDS TO ACCOMPANY THE DOCUMENT.

" [THE CHANCELLOR] oversees diplomatic and foreign relations.
Manages emissaries, negotiates treaties, and represents the Spire in diplomacy. 
Jurisdiction includes all external diplomatic efforts. "

 Yet I only see one of your policy positions address the responsibilities of such.
Perhaps the 'smallfolk' of this great domain have much to learn about the dangers of overreach.

Bobbie:

A TINY, UNSIGNED ADDENDUM IS COPIED FROM THE SENESCHALTY DIRECTORY,
AND TACKED ONTO THE MAJOR NOTICE BOARDS TO ACCOMPANY THE DOCUMENT.

" [THE CHANCELLOR] oversees diplomatic and foreign relations.
Manages emissaries, negotiates treaties, and represents the Spire in diplomacy. 
Jurisdiction includes all external diplomatic efforts. "

 Yet I only see one of your policy positions address the responsibilities of such.
Perhaps the 'smallfolk' of this great domain have much to learn about the dangers of overreach.

[!]

While you are correct in defining that the Chancellor's role encompasses diplomacy, foreign relations and negotiating treaties, your critique is really rather narrow and reductive to ones character. I have chosen to emphasize on domestic order, reform of legal authority, security and administrative competence as being the forefront of the things I believe need changed.

Domestic order is a diplomatic effort.
You cannot negotiate treaties if your legal system is not properly in place.
You cannot run diplomacy without administrative competence.

Don't worry, other things would be worked 'pon. Perhaps you should compare me to my nonexistent competition as a means of reference. Perhaps understand the point of this poster being my ideals and not a complete catalogue of all things relevant that I would change and say as a possible Chancellor. After this perhaps you should give it a good read over again.

Fluffykennels:

Bobbie:

A TINY, UNSIGNED ADDENDUM IS COPIED FROM THE SENESCHALTY DIRECTORY,
AND TACKED ONTO THE MAJOR NOTICE BOARDS TO ACCOMPANY THE DOCUMENT.

" [THE CHANCELLOR] oversees diplomatic and foreign relations.
Manages emissaries, negotiates treaties, and represents the Spire in diplomacy. 
Jurisdiction includes all external diplomatic efforts. "

 Yet I only see one of your policy positions address the responsibilities of such.
Perhaps the 'smallfolk' of this great domain have much to learn about the dangers of overreach.

[!]

While you are correct in defining that the Chancellor's role encompasses diplomacy, foreign relations and negotiating treaties, your critique is really rather narrow and reductive to ones character. I have chosen to emphasize on domestic order, reform of legal authority, security and administrative competence as being the forefront of the things I believe need changed.

Domestic order is a diplomatic effort.
You cannot negotiate treaties if your legal system is not properly in place.
You cannot run diplomacy without administrative competence.

Don't worry, other things would be worked 'pon. Perhaps you should compare me to my nonexistent competition as a means of reference. Perhaps understand the point of this poster being my ideals and not a complete catalogue of all things relevant that I would change and say as a possible Chancellor. After this perhaps you should give it a good read over again.

"Perhaps if you are to run for government office, you should first acquaint yourself with that for which you run. 

The office of Chancellor applies to external diplomatic efforts. You overreach, and you know it.

The man who arrived not but a month ago seeks to make himself an authoritarian figure over the Spire, yet claims he runs only for Chancellor. He bashes those who have power for the crime of possessing it and yet seeks nothing short of the absolute power over our home. 

He fears that which he does not have, and so would prefer to enslave those who have it. A jealous coward."

Just as before, a leaf has been stuck to the page.

neji101:

Fluffykennels:

Bobbie:

A TINY, UNSIGNED ADDENDUM IS COPIED FROM THE SENESCHALTY DIRECTORY,
AND TACKED ONTO THE MAJOR NOTICE BOARDS TO ACCOMPANY THE DOCUMENT.

" [THE CHANCELLOR] oversees diplomatic and foreign relations.
Manages emissaries, negotiates treaties, and represents the Spire in diplomacy. 
Jurisdiction includes all external diplomatic efforts. "

 Yet I only see one of your policy positions address the responsibilities of such.
Perhaps the 'smallfolk' of this great domain have much to learn about the dangers of overreach.

[!]

While you are correct in defining that the Chancellor's role encompasses diplomacy, foreign relations and negotiating treaties, your critique is really rather narrow and reductive to ones character. I have chosen to emphasize on domestic order, reform of legal authority, security and administrative competence as being the forefront of the things I believe need changed.

Domestic order is a diplomatic effort.
You cannot negotiate treaties if your legal system is not properly in place.
You cannot run diplomacy without administrative competence.

Don't worry, other things would be worked 'pon. Perhaps you should compare me to my nonexistent competition as a means of reference. Perhaps understand the point of this poster being my ideals and not a complete catalogue of all things relevant that I would change and say as a possible Chancellor. After this perhaps you should give it a good read over again.

"Perhaps if you are to run for government office, you should first acquaint yourself with that for which you run. 

The office of Chancellor applies to external diplomatic efforts. You overreach, and you know it.

The man who arrived not but a month ago seeks to make himself an authoritarian figure over the Spire, yet claims he runs only for Chancellor. He bashes those who have power for the crime of possessing it and yet seeks nothing short of the absolute power over our home. 

He fears that which he does not have, and so would prefer to enslave those who have it. A jealous coward."

Just as before, a leaf has been stuck to the page.

[!]

A torn letter is stuck next to this.

Concerning external diplomatic efforts, I took it 'pon myself to touch on the forefront of that which concerns The Spire- Valkian Influence. Expanding on this, I noted on things to consider when undertaking what it means to be that of a diplomat.

Nowhere inside of running do I touch on authoritarianism or the desire to enslave others. A rather frantic reaction on your behalf, tis not I who overreaches. A coward hides their identity; I have given my identity, intent and ideals in good length for you.

Fluffykennels:

neji101:

Fluffykennels:

Bobbie:

A TINY, UNSIGNED ADDENDUM IS COPIED FROM THE SENESCHALTY DIRECTORY,
AND TACKED ONTO THE MAJOR NOTICE BOARDS TO ACCOMPANY THE DOCUMENT.

" [THE CHANCELLOR] oversees diplomatic and foreign relations.
Manages emissaries, negotiates treaties, and represents the Spire in diplomacy. 
Jurisdiction includes all external diplomatic efforts. "

 Yet I only see one of your policy positions address the responsibilities of such.
Perhaps the 'smallfolk' of this great domain have much to learn about the dangers of overreach.

[!]

While you are correct in defining that the Chancellor's role encompasses diplomacy, foreign relations and negotiating treaties, your critique is really rather narrow and reductive to ones character. I have chosen to emphasize on domestic order, reform of legal authority, security and administrative competence as being the forefront of the things I believe need changed.

Domestic order is a diplomatic effort.
You cannot negotiate treaties if your legal system is not properly in place.
You cannot run diplomacy without administrative competence.

Don't worry, other things would be worked 'pon. Perhaps you should compare me to my nonexistent competition as a means of reference. Perhaps understand the point of this poster being my ideals and not a complete catalogue of all things relevant that I would change and say as a possible Chancellor. After this perhaps you should give it a good read over again.

"Perhaps if you are to run for government office, you should first acquaint yourself with that for which you run. 

The office of Chancellor applies to external diplomatic efforts. You overreach, and you know it.

The man who arrived not but a month ago seeks to make himself an authoritarian figure over the Spire, yet claims he runs only for Chancellor. He bashes those who have power for the crime of possessing it and yet seeks nothing short of the absolute power over our home. 

He fears that which he does not have, and so would prefer to enslave those who have it. A jealous coward."

Just as before, a leaf has been stuck to the page.

[!]

A torn letter is stuck next to this.

Concerning external diplomatic efforts, I took it 'pon myself to touch on the forefront of that which concerns The Spire- Valkian Influence. Expanding on this, I noted on things to consider when undertaking what it means to be that of a diplomat.

Nowhere inside of running do I touch on authoritarianism or the desire to enslave others. A rather frantic reaction on your behalf, tis not I who overreaches. A coward hides their identity; I have given my identity, intent and ideals in good length for you.

“‘I never claimed this, I never claimed that.’ Yet we see in your manifesto that you address- indeed even prioritize- matters beyond the jurisdiction of the office of Chancellor. Plain to see that should you win, you will make yourself a terror in matters that do not concern you. Census, guard, mage registry, vampirism and arrest of any who do not comply with your wishes. If these are the matters you wish to aid, pray run for a different office. The Chancellor’s is not for you.”

neji101:

Fluffykennels:

neji101:

Fluffykennels:

Bobbie:

A TINY, UNSIGNED ADDENDUM IS COPIED FROM THE SENESCHALTY DIRECTORY,
AND TACKED ONTO THE MAJOR NOTICE BOARDS TO ACCOMPANY THE DOCUMENT.

" [THE CHANCELLOR] oversees diplomatic and foreign relations.
Manages emissaries, negotiates treaties, and represents the Spire in diplomacy. 
Jurisdiction includes all external diplomatic efforts. "

 Yet I only see one of your policy positions address the responsibilities of such.
Perhaps the 'smallfolk' of this great domain have much to learn about the dangers of overreach.

[!]

While you are correct in defining that the Chancellor's role encompasses diplomacy, foreign relations and negotiating treaties, your critique is really rather narrow and reductive to ones character. I have chosen to emphasize on domestic order, reform of legal authority, security and administrative competence as being the forefront of the things I believe need changed.

Domestic order is a diplomatic effort.
You cannot negotiate treaties if your legal system is not properly in place.
You cannot run diplomacy without administrative competence.

Don't worry, other things would be worked 'pon. Perhaps you should compare me to my nonexistent competition as a means of reference. Perhaps understand the point of this poster being my ideals and not a complete catalogue of all things relevant that I would change and say as a possible Chancellor. After this perhaps you should give it a good read over again.

"Perhaps if you are to run for government office, you should first acquaint yourself with that for which you run. 

The office of Chancellor applies to external diplomatic efforts. You overreach, and you know it.

The man who arrived not but a month ago seeks to make himself an authoritarian figure over the Spire, yet claims he runs only for Chancellor. He bashes those who have power for the crime of possessing it and yet seeks nothing short of the absolute power over our home. 

He fears that which he does not have, and so would prefer to enslave those who have it. A jealous coward."

Just as before, a leaf has been stuck to the page.

[!]

A torn letter is stuck next to this.

Concerning external diplomatic efforts, I took it 'pon myself to touch on the forefront of that which concerns The Spire- Valkian Influence. Expanding on this, I noted on things to consider when undertaking what it means to be that of a diplomat.

Nowhere inside of running do I touch on authoritarianism or the desire to enslave others. A rather frantic reaction on your behalf, tis not I who overreaches. A coward hides their identity; I have given my identity, intent and ideals in good length for you.

“‘I never claimed this, I never claimed that.’ Yet we see in your manifesto that you address- indeed even prioritize- matters beyond the jurisdiction of the office of Chancellor. Plain to see that should you win, you will make yourself a terror in matters that do not concern you. Census, guard, mage registry, vampirism and arrest of any who do not comply with your wishes. If these are the matters you wish to aid, pray run for a different office. The Chancellor’s is not for you.”

[!]

You misunderstand as these 'matters above my jurisdiction' concern my ideals and what I believe going forth into a seat. These aren't personal laws that I would somehow implement as if I were some divine ruler.

My ideals are very important so that the smallfolk understand what type of person would be elected. So going forth, understand that census, guard, registry, vampirism and security are very important matters and absolutely do concern any member of the Seneschalty. Did you know that a member of the Seneschalty has to sign their name, in agreement with various legislation? For example, you caterwaul that I dare to critique Vampirism- look at the Dinah Act. You'll see members of the Seneschalty's names all signed at the bottom of legislation such as the Aedall Heritage Preservation Act, various decrees such as The Early Snow-melt Stewardal decree and almost all else.

I understand this position well. Do not fault my intellect or understanding- you are in good hands.

[!] A response is posted, scribbled on some scrap paper in the form of bullet points. The handwriting is...legible, at least. 

• The Spire, and I say this with great love and including myself in several of the categories, is made up of outcasts, runaways, renegades, and weirdos. "Who belongs and who is merely a vagabond" is a stupid statement for a place built by wanderers seeking a new home. 
• A citizen is someone who makes a life here, usually doesn't matter their past or origin. Casting newcomers as outsiders ignores the fact that we are all outsiders here or at least have been once. 
• I did a census prior to the Sundering in order to make emergency plans, and while it needs to be updated, the information is still in the archives. Also, if you did try and make one mandatory in order to re-classify citizenship, a good chunk of the town wouldn't fill it out just out of spite.  
• Chaos already eats at our table. Hell, it makes half the meals. 
• The information I have about the Undercity is admittedly limited because I would get stabbed if I went down there, but my issue is with several particular residents and is due to the murder and assault they have committed. I have no inherent opposition or issue to people who wish to live down there, but if they want to work with the Spire they do have to follow at least the first section of the common law. 
• Also, why do you keep talking about smallfolk? There are those within the Spire that come from nobility, yes, but the Spire itself has no official aristocracy. I suspect there would be riots if someone tried to implement one.
• Vampirism is a curse, one that we are working to find a cure for. It does not take away someone's personhood, it just shifts what they need to consume to survive. Yeah, some are violent assholes, I know plenty of non-vampires who also fall in that category. We already have laws against assault and murder, there's no reason to criminalize simply being cursed.   
• Magic is dangerous, yeah. So are weapons and fabled abilities. Just about every other person you pass on the street could hurt someone pretty badly if they wanted or had to. Trying to make a registry of mages and restrict how magic can be taught is going to cause nothing but problems. 
• Also, if mages hurt people, they get in trouble. Arguably more trouble than martial folks do. 
• There's a difference between being nice and submitting. You can argue about where different people in the Spire fall, but even if Valka had any interest in claiming us, there would of course be significant resistance. 
• You are wrong about Anwar though. He's that kind to literally everyone. 
• The Spire's culture is a patchwork quilt of everything everyone brought with them when they arrived and everything we've made from it since. 
• Unity for the Spire cannot be assimilation, cannot be smoothing out the rough edges and contradicting facets. Those are what make this place what it is: a beautiful, chaotic, enduring mess. The kind of place where you can argue with your neighbor one day and stand back-to-back with them against necrophages the next. We stand together when it matters, and though I do not disagree that there are many, many issues to work out, your way of solving them is...I don't even really have a word for it. Wrong, to say the least. 
• Also, leaf-responder is correct, the chancellor is the spire's main diplomat, essentially. Building and maintaining alliances, expanding travel routes, and handling foreign issues is their main job. Whoever wins this election, and fables hope it's not you, is primarily going to be dealing with the effects of instability from Falstone and the refugees that come to us as a result of that. 
  
  This is simply the most basic of arguments against your stances, and it's really all I actually have time to write since I do have a deadly fungus to be dealing with. -- M.I.