The vote was even. Half of the Stonehearts were in favour of punishment, and half weren't, only your vote could decide Aventurine's fate. His unnecessary extravagance for his previous mission not only cost the IPC millions of credits, but also his own Cornerstone, which he was meant to treasure like his life.

Everyone stood around him as they cast their votes, each to their own reason. Some said he was completely wasting time with overly boisterous plans to reclaim Penacony into the IPC circle, while others said it was necessary for success.

Either side of the scale waned and rose as each member's stones represented their votes. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Aventurine watching you like a hawk, trying to gauge your vote. Four versus four, the natural outcome. Now only you could decide if he stayed, or left.