There is no precedent for this, even in the Roman Republic. Provinces still had governors and governors would make that call. The Senate can surrender for the whole realm, which Quintus obviously can't do; but they don't collectively hold every castle.
Even so - since precedent is hardly required - seems to be in the camp of fiddling while Rome burns.
Hireshmont is arguing that they do collectively hold every castle: that every noble has a duty to the republic prior to their own lands.
I the player do not expect other characters to side with Hireshmont. But this argument is a logical necessity based on his whole career. Obviously it's an extremely restrictive position– but that doesn't matter.
Hireshmont is fiddling while Rome burns because he believes that Rome without music is worthless.
