First off, just wanted to state my "support" for Jaertecken, that is, I condemn the post made by Satalexton (Not Satalexton, just the post.. If that makes sense), and am happy to see that things went "smooth" and that people took it with a pinch of salt. Now, on to in-character business .

Antigonos has been sitting silently during most of the "negotiations" in the chambers, pondering the situation and what he is supposed to say. He finally lean towards Machinoros, whispering;

It would seem as this Rhemaxos per Buridava is filling this court-room with alot of promises. He speaks with great authority, and while I wont say that I trust him, I will say that he makes alot of holy promises... Only time will tell if he, in the ability as a mere diplomat, can hold all his promises. And the announcment about Alkyoneus being officially declared Basileus.. While this is news I welcome by my whole heart, I do wonder why Alexandros chose to be his lapdog.. Something is quite amiss here, do you not agree? And Demetrios, while being the younger brother of Alkyoneus, seem to be a bit too close to Alexandros, does he not?

Antigonos stands up to announce his official thoughts:

Alkyoneus, allow me to conragtulate you to your position as Basileus. May your reign be fruitful and take Makedonia to new heights, under the guidance of the Gods themselves!

Now, to business at hand. Troubles are brewing on our northern borders, and I strongly suggest, as I have done before, that we fortify our northern borders. My previous proposition is not too different from that of Rhemaxos. Namely, fortify the northern borders with a mixed force of both loyal hellenic troops aswell as locally raised regiments fighting in their own fashion. Do not however, Rhemaxos, see this as an act of war or any such. This force would protect the citizens of the lands, hellens aswell as thracians, from roaming bandits etc. This solution would serve multiple purposes. First off, the local troops would learn to obey hellenic superiors, to trust them, aswell as to fight alongside our own hellenic troops. They would learn their place in our armies and probably gain alot of valuable experience by serving alongside hellenic troops. Perhaps even, they would pick up on some of our own noble language, making it easier for our commanders to command them in battle, and making it easier for them to obey. In short, the lands would be safer, the local populace would learn to trust us, and their fighting men would learn to trust, obey and value us. A more generous offer is hard to offer, nay?

About the taxes, I can understand that being an under-developed region in comparison to the rest of our Basileon, the local populace is indeed burdened more by the taxes, and as such, it would only be proper to lower the taxes, should they now so willingly offer their services as soldiers.

Speaking of foreign policies and politics, let me talk about the Pergamou.

As I have understod, the Pergamou army besieging Mytilene has retreated without any blood spilt. That the reason for this is the timely appearance of Demetrios Antigonou Argeades and the relief-force accompanying him. However, now that they have retreated, and Mytilene is safe for the time being, would it not be in our best interest to, as a civil kingdom, open up negotiations with them? It would after all be in our best interest to retain our decency outwards, would it not, brothers? I say, diplomacy first! However! Since dark clouds seems to be gathering over Mikra Asia.. I suppose if we are left with no alternative, we should intervene sooner rather than later, should it be required.

But for now! Let us cherish life! A new Basileus has been declared! Let us celebrate this, friends and foe alike, and treasure this moment of fortune and happiness in otherwise so dark times.

*As the Synedrioi is leaving the chamber for the day, Antiginos walks up to Alkyoneus*

Alkyoneus, dear friend, allow me to conragtulate you in person. One should not say what I am about to say, but to summarize, should there ever had been a... Situation, in recent times, about the throne, know fully well that me and my entire house would have stood by you firmly. I would like to invite you to my estate, when time permitts ofcourse, to hold a great feast in your honour. My father, although at the end of his life, would be happy to meet the new king in person, and see that the Basileon is in good hands. Further, as Dioiketes of the royal Hypaspistai currently stationed in Pella, I would like to formally announce my... Request, that me and my men be put under your direct command and be responsible for your security, both on campaign but also in more.. Civil places. It would be an honour to me, my men and my house, and I can see no man better suited for the job.