some thoughts on the latest critical role episodes:
I've seen some concern about the strength of Murray's testimony against the Photarch, and while I share the sentiment that it might not have weight in Dol Makjar, I think it'll have dramatic impacts in Timmony. Murray's intervention in the attempted assassination means that King Gus is almost certainly going to trust her word on this issue, and by placing his word behind it he'll be able to push for the expulsion of the Creed's influence from the kingdom. This wouldn't be a clean effort, as the Creed has many allies and a degree of popular support, but it'd give allowance for him to act at a time where seemingly his opposition are unprepared for open conflict. The unfortunate consequence to this is that the people of Timmony will be subject to conflict and lose the material aid offered by the Creed. Maybe the schemers can find ways to mitigate that loss?
With King Gus's support and conflict on the horizon, it is possible that this presents an opportunity for many of the former revolutionary guardsmen. Maybe they'll serve as an International Brigade akin to those who fought in the Spanish Civil War. Perhaps 50 stay in Dol Makyar with the support of the Schemers and the other 300 accompany the king on his return. Those numbers are just examples, but they illustrate the difference that could be made. Their support would also allow the kingdom to be an open ally of the Magpie Rebellion, a role he wasnt able to serve with the Falconers.
I wonder if the testimony against House Tachonis as to the fate of Royce and Davinos may be used as a bargaining chip for the independence of the theatre. From the way the Photarch spoke to Wick vis-a-vis Thjazi's execution, it appears Halovar is extremely wary of Tachonis and would likely leap at an opportunity to ruin their alliances and repute. Moreover, he could point to the importance of Murray in recovering Demodus to recover any ill-will gathered from her intervention in the assassination. To make it appear as if this work makes her a useful tool for sabotaging the other Sundered Houses. Perhaps a far fetched suggestion, but I hope they can find a way to keep her safe from the Photarch.
Speaking of people who must be kept safe, Mayali Nayar I love you and you can do no wrong. May a beautiful person sweep you off your feat and treat you right in a way your current employers never could.