The Council Chamber erupted the moment Marron left.
"Absolutely not." Master Renfield's voice cut across the rising noise. "She admitted to violation of every restriction. Admitted to possession. We have documented proof that she cannot maintain control. The decision is obvious."
"Is it?" Sir Caldus leaned forward. "She also admitted to fighting back. To having help. To surviving what should have destroyed her. That's worth consideration."
"It's worth documentation," Lady Harrow said, her pen scratching across paper. "For the historical record. But not worth risking another possession. She had extraordinary support and still failed. What happens when the support isn't there?"
"Then we make support standard," said Councilor Perth, a younger member Edmund had appointed last year. "She made a compelling case. Greaves was isolated. She had community. That was the difference."
