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It began in the cavernous chamber that looks like a clamshell from the outside and where so many epic political battles have been waged.

9:35: Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, the Ford ally who quit the executive committee, wants to finish a press conference that was cut short when Doug Ford showed up outside the mayor’s office. He is urging the mayor to “reconsider” his decision to appeal the court ruling, fearing that it will drag out and result in the flight of investment dollars.

9:45: The mayor is at the podium, gripping its edges as is his style, introducing MPPs Monte Kwinter and Donna Cansfield. They are here to bestow a pin on councillors Maria Augimeri, Gloria Lindsay Luby and Deputy Mayor Doug Holyday, in honour of more than 25 years of public service. The provincial officials praised all three municipal counterparts. In the case of Mr. Holyday, who has indicated he would be interested in the top job if council moves to appoint a replacement, Ms. Cansfield singles out his “great wisdom” on council. The group poses for a photo, Mr. Holyday in the middle, the mayor on the outside. The two shake hands. No words are exchanged.

11:00: The mayor has swivelled his chair to face Anna Kinastowski, the city solicitor, as she deals him a blow. Ms. Kinastowski says she believes the judge’s ruling disqualifies the mayor from running in a byelection, should council choose to call one. Councillors toss questions around about next steps, timelines, the possible outcome of an appeal as the mayor quietly takes it all in.