1 Saik Guard, Gunther, a Rottweiler, Lucita arrive, following Estaban.

2 Velenosa House Guards arrives, following Jaenelle.

Olenna, Pellinor arrive, following Alarissa.

Cambria has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Eleyna has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Grazia has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Alarissa has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Lucita steps into the meeting area, her hand resting lightly in the crook of his elbow. She removes her hand to curtsy respectfully and glances around at those present.

Calista has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Cambria has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

6 Malvici Guards, Adjutant General Vincenzo di Malvici arrive, following Calypso.

Cambria has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

    Merek comes into the place and finds a place to take a seat quiet!

Guardians are about in full force tonight, along with Mazetti-employed servants. Guests are escorted inwards to the gallery, servants are there to make sure they are offered refreshments. The Marquessa herself is seated at the center of the long, wide table atop the dais.

4 Kennex corsairs arrives, following Vanora.

For once, Eleyna arrives somewhat early, trailed by a couple of liveried guards and Jiacomo, who totes along a sheaf of parchments for his mistress, given that she still only has the use of one hand. She nods to Cambria, murmuring, "Marquessa. You have my thanks for organizing this meeting. Your home is lovely. Where would you like me to sit."

Shard arrives without a word, looking decidedly out of place simply by virtue of her appearance if nothing else. She lifts a hand to wave off the offer of refreshments when it comes, and simply looks for a spot to stand nearby.

Camilla, Luigi, 5 House Mazetti Guardians arrive, following Hadrian.

Estaban walks in with Lucita he looks around to see who is here, leaning into whisper something to Lucita who is on his arm he moves to find a place to sit.

Ian has the honor of escorting the Marquessa of his house this evening, it would seem. (That would be Vanora) Or at least he comes in with her. With his attention on his feet or the ground ahead of him the entire time that he's walking, he doesn't make for the best escort in the world. But he's doing his best.

Calypso arrives later than her usual punctuality lends itself to and silently finds a place to settle in and listen near Calista.

Jaenelle comes in right on time, it seems, informing her guards to make themselves comfortable for the time being as they seem intent on not leaving the her. Spotting Eleyna, Jae moves to follow the woman, and in turn greeting Cambria as well with a warm smile and dip of her head.

Calypso has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Something cool to drink is accepted, as the the Thrax Voice makes her way in, dark red and modest in style a glance to Eleyna before faintly waddling to whatever indicated seat that there is for her to occupy. No intention to stand the whole time. Her own guard keeping back near the door as Alarissa makes herself comfortable.

Estaban has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Lucita has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

The Duchess of Roses arrives with a small retinue of Fidante guards and her right hand man, Alejandro who apparently is holding a crabby looking Saikland cat, just as the meeting is about to begin. Crimson seasilk flows around her licentious curves, hugging close like a possessive lover while each graceful step speaks of effortless elegance. Not a single cinnamon kissed lock is out of place, and her flawless makeup is simple and delicate to accentuate her exotic features. The smile upon her lips is warm and inviting as usual and when she moves to greet Cambria, she extends her arms to offer up delicate air kisses to either cheek. In her hands is a bottle of champagne. "Marquessa, a gift for you. I should have brought it by earlier." She takes her seat and settles in near Calypso. "Duchess, it is always good to see you." There's a nod of greeting to the others present, in particular the other Lycene's present like the Archduchess Eleyna and Princess Jaenelle.

4 Kennex corsairs leaves, following Vanora.

"Archduchess," Cambria greets Eleyna. "Lovely to see you again. Please, join me here on my left, if you would. The Marquis should be joining us before long. And you are most welcome..." She peers about briefly, to acknowledge all those who were still entering into the usually empty gallery.

Jaenelle has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

4 Kennex corsairs arrives, following Vanora.

Shard has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Eleyna takes a seat where directed, making sure to direct Jaenelle to sit near her. She returns the greetings directed at her with a distracted nod, her eyes distant fo a moment. She briefly makes eye contact with Alarissa, which pulls a fleeting grin to her lips, before she settles in the seat. She leans toward Jaenelle and murmurs something to her Voice before glancing out over the other faces at the table.

Lucita's alert gaze slips from person to person as they arrive and find places to sit. She seems at ease amid those gathered. She has a small paper in her hand that she reviews, seeming to note certain points on it with a light tap of her finger then folds and tucks away.

Estaban looks to Calypso nodding his head as he sits himself and Lucita down near her, his dog sitting at his side on the ground and his guard off to the side, his hands slip to rest in his lap while he sits and waits.

Lord Ian Kennex may not have the highest opinion of his abilities as an escort, but to observe his Marquessa one might think she has not even noticed. Slow steps filled with all the grace of a Lyceum viper bring her into the room and towards the seating area, her arm resting lightly atop Ian's as one might when moving with the most poised gentleman in court. Soft seasilk drapes her slender figure, the rich colors of the waters themselves, deep blues and greens fading up to aquas. The gown highlights Stormward seasilk at its best, cut perfectly to emphasize the quality of the fabric. Around her throat is yet another trademark of the Kennex lands, a string of perfect Stormward black pearls subtly caressing the throat. Frosty green eyes lift from behind sooty lashes to take in the collected faces, though familiar and not so much.

Calypso inclines her head to Calista. "And you as well, Duchess." She crosses one leather clad leg over the other as her icy gaze settles on each who join the conversation. A nod to those she is more familiar with, and the quiet gaze of a cool-tempered professional to the rest. Her Adjutant settles near by to take notes.

Shard studies all those arriving, and those who have already arrived. There's no smiles from her, not even any real nods--she's mostly just a steady, neutral mask, silent and watching. At some point she crosses her arms loosely over her chest, and there they remain, at least for the time being.

Sybilla, the Lenosian courtier, Hiss, the Lenosian viper, 2 Velenosa House Guards arrive, following Talen.

Ian walks with/escorts Vanora towards the dias. At the very least, he has the manners to make sure she's seated before sitting down, himself.

Jaenelle is certainly here for moral support! As she sits close to Eleyna, leaning over to hear whatever the Archduchess says, there is a small nod of understanding given and a softly spoken responce of her own, brows arching in response to whatever it is she says. She seems to fall silent as everyone gets settled.

Somewhat later than many others, Talen's arrival is announced primarily due to his metal sollerets against the flooring. The hustle bustle of retainers are shooed to respectful distances while he makes his greetings before he moves to linger behind Eleyna. Standing, it seems, for the moment. "Apologies for the delay, prior obligations overrun, et cetera."

Seated at the table, Grazia merely lifts her chin in a greeting to each person present as they sit, her hands resting on the table and her eyes cold and distant for the time being.

From behind locked and guarded doors which lead into the athenaeum, Hadrian briskly walks from beyond. An eavesdropping eavesdropper may no doubt take note of the vast library within with shelves and furniture that look centuries old. The Marquis' expression is an etched mask of cold withdrawal. A scowl has formed on his features and remains firmly locked in place. Guards and personal assistants trail after the man of many titles. Ducklings fan move away from the Marquis as he begins to climb the steps of the dais, while Luigi and Camilla trail up the steps in the wake of Hadrian. He offers a polite nod of his head to the Velenosa royals and the Duchess of Tor, but does not speak up to interrupt the fledgling discussion. The scowl though swiftly disappears, replaced instead by a soft smile that seems to show some measure of amusement at nothing in particular. The way that his jaw sets however, it's obvious that he were busy silently grinding his teeth. Once Hadrian's seated himself he utters aside to Luigi, "Find Flora, advise her I'd like brandy. Third Wall, yes," he remarks with a faint nod of his head before Hadrian's attention drifts to the table as a whole.

Hadrian has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

"Duchess Fidante," Cambria greets with Calista. "A gift of wine always brings cheer to my heart." The Marquessa then stands, to better draw attention to herself as she prepares to address those now gathered. "First: to all of you that have arrived this evening, thank you. When I put out the call for this council, I had only intended to bring my fellow Lycenes together so that we might brainstorm the various ways and means we can assist the Stormward march of House Kennex. It is not," she pauses, glances around. "A meeting where I will be telling anyone what it is they should do. After all, we are the many and varied city-states of the Lyceum!" Again, a pause, here if only for those to cheer if they want to cheer.

"Though shortly after I put the word out, did I receive a letter from the Archduke, here," Cambria gestures to Talen. "Who may or may not insist he is common and ask only to be referred to as Talen. Fair warning. And it is to he and his lovely wife to who may wish to have the floor now."

Talen has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Ian has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Whatever Jaenelle says makes Eleyna grin to the point that it appears that she's holding back a laugh. She regards the entrance of the Marquessa of Stormward with a flat, cool gaze that shift into something warmer as she spots the man that enters behind her. Another flash of a smile as her pale eyes follow Talen to his place behind her chair. She murmurs something in response to his excuses and then clears her throat, "I suppose we should get started then. Everyone knows why we're here, so I think we can spare the backstory and start brainstorming about what the Lycene response might be. Duchess Pravus has already forwarded a letter of her own intentions and has declined to join in any combined Lycene efforts. Before we start tossing ideas around, I'd like to offer Princess Alarissa Thrax a chance to state what the most pressing needs to regain stability are at this time."

Ian settles in with the air of someone who's here to listen, not to talk.

Talen speaks just prior to Eleyna-- perhaps timing it so not as to detract from any official calls-- in response to Cambria, "I just get sick of writing the signatures out," he explains absently. Then with a nod, his eyes turn to Alarissa, while be taps taloned fingers upon the back of Eleyna's chair. Hopefully not scratching through the varnish too much.

Vanora has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Merek notices Calista and inclines a bit, however he still doesn't seem to be putting much towards the conversation. For the time being, instead he seems to just listen.

Oh. That was unexpected. Alarissa looks to Eleyna with raised brows as she's suddenly put on the spot. She pushes her own chair back and rises, gripping the table to do so in a way that doesn't take forever. "At the moment, Archduchess, I would almost say a charm of some kind that would turn back time." There's a glance to Vanora. "But since that is highly doubtful, I would surmise that since there is a representative of Kennex present and doesn't look set to rabbit off ten minutes in after hard questions are put them, perhaps we might hear from Kennex? Thrax admits, it might be ncie to actually hear their needs. If you would so indulge me." This to Eleyna, before the gaze is turned to Vanora and Ian.

Ian seems inclined to the, let's face it, much more poised and put together Vanora. Who also outranks him.

Hadrian's attention drifts for a moment to Talen. He watches the Dark Prince and Archduke-Consort for a long moment before an amused smile begins to bleed across his features. Luigi's summoned with a beckoning hand. Parchment, quill, and an inkwell are summarily handed over from the sleeve of one of Hadrian's assistant. A thankful dip of the chin is given as Hadrian begins to scrawl line after line on the parchment. The smile persists while Hadrian's harlequin green eyes rise up to regard Eleyna while she speaks, though that doesn't deter his feverish writing as his gaze bounces from Eleyna to Vanora. Once the quill goes still again the ink is given a moment to dry before the parchment is folded and handed back to Luigi, who then begins to circle the table at a leisurely pace. Once that's completed, Hadrian's focus returns to Eleyna and Vanora, then to Alarissa.

Jaenelle shifts her position enough that Talen is now in their little triangle of Velenosa, so information may be shared without interrupting the others. She is an oddity at this table, being both Thraxian in nature and Velenosa in nurture, so clearly she has ponies in this race from both sides.

Estaban raises a brow as he watches and looks between those speaking, his blue eyes glance from person to person watching them. He remains silent watching and listening, the new Baron seem to be waiting to hear what Kennex is in need of.

Rosaline, former contortionist of Tor arrives, following Blacktongue.

Blacktongue has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Poised and put together all of the time? Probably not. But some of the time? Vanora can manage that well enough, and so it is that in a slight swish of seasilk she rises to her feet and stands at the table. Not necessarily to appear especially important, but so that she is not dawrfed nor her words muffled by furniture. She pauses at first to dip her head to each of those gathered, even those she's never laid eyes on before. A lower curtsey is offered Eleyna's way, and one for Alarissa as well, as well as the greeting "Your Graces, Your Highnesses" for they are both both of those. "I will do my best to speak as requested, though I hope you will be patient with me as there is much I still do not know about House Kennex and House Thrax and the strong martial and political histories that touch upon this situation. I may make mistakes, in which case I ask humbly that you might correct me, for leading with mistaken assumptions is not good for my House or for any of yours. It is not good for any of us." She continues on. "I came tonight specifically because it was a meeting called for the Lyceum to discuss potential aid to House Kennex, and I am the only one I know of who is both. I was born Pravus, raised in Setarco and then Lenosia and then Setarco again, and I know the ways of our people as only one of 'us' can truly do so. Yet my marriage contract was written between Pravus and Kennex together, thus wedding me to Ford and making me his marquessa. In doing so he gave me an unprecedented honor that I still struggle to live up to, for he did not name me another of his voices but as his co-ruler. He is Marquis, I am Marquessa and we both guide Kennex together with that joint authority. Our voices are such because they speak for both of us.

A pause ever so briefly and she goes on. "That said, he and I did not speak about this decision he made or its implications. He made the decision, the declaration, and while I do understand his motives I am no different than any of you in wishing they had been approached a different way. That is neither here nor there though. What /is/ is where to go from here in a way that keeps Kennex moving forward in this commitment to paid labor, and yet also does not alienate the Dukes and High Lords whom we serve. Thus I am here to listen to your concerns. To address them when I am able to and to make note of the ones I cannot that they might be addressed later. And to look for solutions, for ways to help this situation to the benefit of all.

Ian continues to defer, as he's been doing. He watches and listens, his gaze moving from person to person always with a sense of deliberateness. Never a casual glance.

No swishing of silk nor a clatter of armor; the Harlequin of House Velenosa arrives with a languid gait and gentle hum in his throat, hands folded at the small of his back. Dressed in his habitual head to toe blacks, from the gloves to even the boots, the only flourish of color on his person is the deep purple of his well trimmed beard. Blacktongue pauses to sweep a flourished bow to Eleyna and Talen before then taking a seat none too far, taking up his post with the smile of the cheshire that got the canary.

Talen extends his gauntlet, palm upturned, then accepts the note. It's not exactly subtle, when he reads it, then passes it back to Luigi with a nod of silent thanks. There's a single, long stare given to Hadrian, neck craned over in that direction as he says, "Your hand stamina is enviable, Master Baker," he calls over, "it must be all of the rolling of wrist when you're pounding your dough," not bothering to pen a response in an otherwise important meeting. A moment later, all play is over, as Vanora speaks and he lets his gunmetal gaze linger there. "To speak bluntly, we all know Ford fucked up in his execution of-- yes-- a noble cause," he voices, "but it is the wish of House Thrax," he says with an eye to Alarissa, "and the Crown that we pull together and let the ramifications play out after we've let the storm on Stormward calm a little. I can speak for House Velenosa's state of mind regarding our military, at least. We're committing half our armada to the effort, likely in transportation efforts, rather than military. I know amongst the Lyceum, we have many ships, so we can help alleviate the burden of rehoming 20,000 newly freed men and women. I'd like to hear numbers from other houses as to what they might be willin to commit. It'll give us a picture of what we can do. Then, of course, there are other matters. Silver and supplies, actual capacity for the refugees, so on."

Wash steps in quietly, looking abashed at his lateness, appropriately.

Ian gives a startled cough right around when Talen says 'Master Baker'. Because that totally wasn't a swallowed laugh. Totally. He sinks into his chair a little bit and totally doesn't continue to pointedly not laugh. Laughter is the last thing on his mind. That's not mirth dancing in his eyes. This is a serious occasion!

Dianna swept into the room from the Warrens, wearing a rather unusual expression for her -- one that approximated a frown. Fingers burying in her skirts, she lifted her hems just so in order to hurry up the steps to the dais.

"House Malvici is willing to commit half of its fleet to the protection of the waters that surround House Kennex's holdings. A weakness in the Compact is a threat to us all. Lets not let this noble, though poorly planned, act of humanity be a weakness for us." Calypso says with an even tone at Talen's request for commitments. A glance is given towards Estaban, the House's admiral, along with a nod.

"Without Duchess Zaffria in attendance, you are all aware that I cannot speak for Gemecitta as of yet. But it is my... inclination to offer shelter and homes to thralls that are able to learn or ply a trade that is -needed- within our great city. We have already taken in many refugees from Marquessa Deepwood, and would require a list of thralls, their strengths, weaknesses, and where they wish to attain their future. I cannot promise to house a thousand bakers, or cobblers, or those without the ability to learn a trade." Grazia states siply, tapping a single metallic fingertip against the table with a slight ring. "What little fleet we possess as a landlocked city will not be sent away from their posts at this time, but we will offer what overflow of food, clothing, and other necessities that we possess to aid in the Thraxian.. mess."

Ian clears his throat. "Any transports or supply ships will need a military escort." To his credit, his voice is as level and unhurried as ever. Totally-not-mirth over, back to the business at hand. "A lot of the thralls who were freed were captured as pirates, and some of them -- the worst of them -- will go back to that life. They'll see unescorted ships as easy prey."

Blacktongue's brow arches way on up, its brother angling down sharply as his piercing eyes dance between each person present. His smile only spreads and he taps strokes his beard in his pensive lull.

Shard listens quietly, but makes no attempt to speak up herself. Her eyes go to each speaker in turn.

Eleyna nods to Alarissa when she defers to Vanora and then fixes that piercing blue gaze on the Marquessa, her own lips thinned into a flat frown as she listens to her speak. Her eyes only break long enough to acknowledge the entrance of the Harlequin before they are upon Vanora once again. As she winds down, Eleyna speaks up after Talen, "My husband and -Voice- speaks my own thoughts so succinctly that I see no need to add more to the subject. As for aid to offer, these people need more than ships. Once we move them, where do they go? The Lyceum is willing to rehome thralls with a desire to relocate in the South, provided that they bend the knee. Who here is willing or able to take in refugees, if needed? Silver is also required to help those families now devastated with no income and left without the ability to plan for this outcome in advance. People are starving that need fed. Grayson and their vassals are offering three million silver in aid. I think we can at least match that. My cousin Valencia Velenosa has offered to extend the efforts of her charity organization to raise additional funds as well. " A nod is offered to both Calypso and Grazia as Eleyna murmurs, "Thank you, Duchesses."

Vanora has already seated herself, smoothing seasilk into place, when Talen addresses her and she looks back at him. The lingering of his gaze does not have much of an effect, and indeed her frosty green one remains staring right back. "To speak very bluntly indeed, yes. We've had conversations amongst ourselves that have revealed similar conclusions, but I did not expect that particular verbiage to come from the new Archduke Velenosa? A lesson in making assumptions. I'll keep it in mind. I will not be baited into speaking ill of my husband in this particular collection of company in which he is not present, It serves no purpose save distraction and we are all too easily distracted. No." From there though she turns around to the rest of the table. "I am more than eager to hear the wishes of house Thrax," She settles those green eyes on Alarissa, "As well as any challenges or frustrations you find your House struggling with due to this turn of events, for I will do all that is in my power to see them alleviated to the best of my ability." Eyes move towards Grazia and there is an inclination of the Marquessa's head that seems gracious, perhaps even grateful. "Yes, that has been a pressing concern of mine since I was made aware of the public stance Kennex took and advertised. Finding work for the thralls that would both prevent slips back into crime, and that would also see that the jobs as farmers and laborers that they once did without pay might be replaced by those either among free thralls or other groups that would be willing to work for compensation, even modest compensation."

Hadrian extends a nod toward Talen before he remarks calmly, "A great deal of practice. Since I was a teenager. It was one of my many hobbies." Hadrian's attention then turns back to Eleyna and Alarissa. For a moment his lips purse together and there seems to be a glimmer of a frown, which is quickly wiped away and replaced by a subdued smile. He prepares to speak, but simply glances toward Cambria once again in order to allow her to speak. Though when his attention turns to her, his scowl returns fully. He stares daggers for a moment before his attention turns away and back a glass of cherry brandy placed before himself. He takes up the glass and takes a long sip from the contents, fingers idly tapping against the surface in apparent annoyance.

Slipping into the room to join his kin, Aethan Kennex moves as quietly as possible in an attempt to keep from disrupting the proceedings. The grim-faced lord soon stands beside his brother Ian, listening to what he has to offer those assembled for this meeting, as well as what their liege's wife has to say, though the look on his face seems to indicate that he has little idea who she is responding to.

Hadrian does however take note of the arrival of Lady Dianna and his annoyance seems to dissipate as he lifts a hand and waves at her with a wiggle of his fingers and a renewed smile.

Lucita says, "I have been instructed by Marquessa Quenia to speak of the following. Half the profits of current wine sales an additional 200,000 silver, any spare space of which should be some, in our ships...which should already have military escort, that part of what my sister's ship does, allocated for use to help maintain trade. For housing, we are like Gemecitta, having just received a goodly number of refugees from AARG efforts. We would want a balance of craftsmen, and those who are able to help maintain health and wellbeing, not being able to sustain a large influx of any one particular group and would need a little time to arrange adequte housing."

Dianna has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Ian seems surprised to hear a soft step behind him, turn in his seat, and see Aethan standing behind him. Emotions that are begun and aborted before they have any real chance to form flicker in his impossibly blue eyes. He motions to a chair nearby, everyone sitting as the are at the big table.

Aethan has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Wash continues to linger in the back of the room, nodding in the direction of anyone that notes him there. He's not trying to obfuscate his presence, simply be unobtrusive.

"House Thrax, and likely Grimhall would be eager to hear word from Kennex. That, Marquessa, is what Thrax would want. Thus far, save for the speak and run of the Marquise at Grayson and here, we have heard nothing but stagnation and silence. We stand at the ready with our naval fleet to protect ships that wish to aid in transporting freedmen and women who would like to leave to other ports." There's a look to Ian then back to Vanora. "Thrax also offers to match what Brother Wyrmguard offered before that debacle. Coin incentive for freedmen to remain and work. Other opportunities will be forthcoming I am sure, by other houses. A thousand a head to pledge. To Thrax, or even to Kennex once more." To the room as a whole, Alarissa straightens, fingers tented on the table. "Thrax will handle any donations that are given, by those who do not wish to give to Kennex directly and they will be summarily sent down each coin accounted for, to the Grimhall Duke. Thrax's focus at this moment is to give Kennex enough rope to hang itself, or throw forth as a lifeline request."

There's a grim press to her lips. 'They wlill require lumber, stone, metals, materials to rebuild. They will need coin, to give to the afflicted individuals who's farms and stores and shops have been decimated physically and econcomically. They will also need coin tor eplace ships, that they never replaced, in the wake of the thraxian tragedy. If they are to protect themselves in teh wake of this all and not rely on others."

Talen inclines his head to Calypso, saying, "Perfect, the numbers will align then that if we can receive as much as you commit in additional ships from our other duchies, we can have an escort paired with each transport ship - one for one." To Calista, he asks, "Could House Fidante match House Malvici's offer, to square us up? With Gemecitta's focus elsewhere and without any indication as to what House Pravus has given in support, this could be a strong offering in ships at least. Then, with that, we can turn our minds to the refugees and the rest?" An effort at an easy, clean decision on part one. Vanora's response causes him to twist his lips slightly, an effort at a smile, looking only crookedly amused. "Oh, I'm quite assuredly the worst one to assume anything about, yes... but no distractions, agreed." There, he listens to Alarissa as she speaks, leaving the intricacies of people placement and supplies on the air for others to chime in about.

Shard's right eye narrows very faintly.

"While it is not within my capacity as Voice, it is certainly within mine as Minister of Infrastructure for the Crown" Jaenelle speaks up, her voice soft yet tone commanding in nature. "There are shops within the city in need of assistants, seeking skilled tradespeople to continue to allow the growing city to continue to do so. Those who would prefer more manual labor, there is always construction being done, abled bodies at the docks to see the flow of trade never suffer, the extensive sewer system beneath the city in need of regular maintenace. I will speak with His Majesty about the prospects of opening doors to those who need employment, who wish to learn a trade, and how many thralls Arx is able to accept in way of immigration into the city itself."

Estaban looks up speaking after Calypso, "House Saik is willing to commit half of its fleet to the protection of the waters that surround House Kennex's holdings as well, House Saik is also giving support for any refuges who wish to come to the main land are welcome. We will help aid them in training and education to be able to rejoin society if they wish or welcome to find work with in the Saikland Greens to support themsleves and their families."

Ian's eyebrows climb at something Alarissa says. His mouth sets in a hard line, and he continues to listen.

"My lady," Dianna murmured faintly, offering her cousin Cambria a formal curtsy at her arrival. Hadrian, by contrast, had his wiggling of fingers returned with a peck on the cheek -- the sort that, given he was sitting down, required her to lean over his shoulder. A few nods were given to other familiar faces -- Ian, Wash, Lucita -- but unfamiliar with all the rest, she simply assumed a seat and prepared to listen.

Wash says, "I am afraid that no one here can speak for the Marquis himself, so I do not presume to do so. But I wish to say that I am very thankful for the restraint that every house here has demonstrated, in keeping their fleets at sea and allowing the Marquis' plans for Stormward to unfold as he has envisioned." Wash bows deeply, in the general direction of Cambria initially, but sweeping in the direction of each of the gathered Lords. "I for one, am humbled that so much concern is evinced here for the House of Kennex. The last thing I wish in this world is for my home, my wife, and the sea to be taken from me."

"Freedmen." Alarissa speaks up. "They have been freed. They are no longer thralls. There is a difference that should be noted."

Blacktongue says, "Enthralling."

Shard glances up toward the glass dome overhead, as if studying it for a moment, then briefly toward Cambria. And then, wordless as she's been the entire meeting, she quietly separates herself from the gathering, moving softly down the dais and toward the exit without a backwards glance. Her pace is brisk and purposeful, however.

Shard has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Cambria seems to blithely ignore Hadrian's scowl. Instead, she listens to the discussion as it unfolds intently. As yet, the Marquessa of Mazetti refrained from speaking. She greets Dianna quietly, and acknowledges Wash's words with a nod. At last, she leans over and offers some sort of clipped remark to Hadrian himself.

Calista for her part has been quiet, sipping wine, sitting casually in her seat with her legs crossed at the knees. Occasionally she will toy with the skirt of her gown while others speak. However, when Talen speaks directly to her, the thick fringe of dark lashes lifts and allows shadowed emerald eyes to regard her Archduke. "I believe we can, Your Grace."

Though her head turns slightly this way and that as others speak, Vanora turns her attention to Alarissa. "Of course. Tell me what word you wish to hear from Kennex and it will be so. Do you want information about what Kennex seeks assistance on regarding fleets, defenses, the safety of cargo vessels against pirates? Or is there somewhat else? I offer my deepest apologies for missing that meeting with House Grayson, but my deepest intent was to be there." She listens with attention and focus to each of Alarissa's words, nodding again at the end. "Thrax's focus is to give Kennex enough rope to hang itself, or throw forth as a lifeline request. In that humility, that request of a lifeline...is it Your Highness' intention to offer that lifeline and assist House Kennex in this matter? Or to cut it off at the source, with either hanging or drowning as the two choices?" No sarcasm or wry anything in her questions, they are asked honestly. Though she glances at Wash and shakes her head. "I speak for the Marquis and myself or the Marquis or myself. I am not a Voice of Kennex, I am Ford's equal in all ways that entails."

For her part, Eleyna listens, pale eyes moving from speaker to speaker. Near her, Jiacomo begin to hastily scribble on a piece of parchment to keep track of the commitments offered. Mot especially, Eleyna pays attention to Alarissa's statements, one corner of her mouth curving. She idly rubs the fingers of her good arm against the shoulder of the injured one and offers lightly, "House Velenosa is prepared to offer a million silver to House Thrax to dispense with as needed to deal with this crisis. I trust the Duke of Grimhall's wisdom and practicality in the dispensation of funds. Paired with the funds offered so graciously by Lady Lucita Igniseri, that stil leaves us with a million and eight hundred thousand if we intend to match House Grayson's donation. We seem to be doing well with ships, as we should."

"This assistance will not be free forever, by and by. House Rubino takes its debts quite seriously. That I feel, must be intoned for House Kennex to understand. What is aid in a time of great need also strains the very resources we count on, and down the line I expect a boon. Either a grand boon or many, many small ones granted. I would not offer assistance without letting Marquessa Vanora be well aware. Though you are Pravus, so that should not be news to your ears." Grazia admits during a pause in the conversation, her gaze trailing to Blacktongue with a curious quirk of her head.

Wash starts when he realizes Vanora is here. "Marquessa, my apologies. I did not realize you were hear. I have misspoken."

The young woman smiles good naturedly and Vanora shakes her head. "With such esteemed company I am easily overlooked. Pay it no mind." to Walsh

Fasionably? late. Dante saunters into the gallery with a cocksure swagger, as if this were the Fidante estate instead of the Mazetti manor. Dante removes his helm and tucks it under his left arm, pausing to glance over those present, nodding here and there, a smile and a wink for one or two before Dante moves to find a place to sit. "Sorry for the late arrival."

Calista lifts her free hand at Dante and waves him over from her seat at the table so that her Sword may join her.

Dante has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Ian studies Grazia for a long time before picking someone else to look at. Wash, in this, case, who he invites to join the Kennex gaggle with a slight tilt of his head.

Jaenelle asks of Vanora, including Alarissa in for good measure, "as thralls, they worked to pay their debts. Some even taken from their family and brought elsewhere to work, their debts sold to others in need of labor or assistance. Have there been talks of reuniting families with their loved ones? Perhaps there is not as great a need as imagined for relocating, as they already have homes to go to and wish with obvious understanding to return to them and their waiting loved ones."

Eleyna shifts her gaze to Wash, watching him with a lifted brow before looking way.

Hadrian leans up and forward, as though preparing to join the conversation in earnest. Then he's receiving a peck at the cheek and he fires a sunny smile off at Dianna before he offers a polite nod of his head toward her. Soon enough Hadrian's attention drifts back to the unfolding discussion. He places his glass of cherry brandy down and then begins to speak with Cambria remaining quiet, "House Mazetti's intentions are to supply some ships to aid in the matter. The exact number undetermined at this time. We're willing to assist with relocation of those who wish to depart to the western coastline, Ostria, and Tor should they wish to accept new citizens. We are open to supplying House Kennex with both silver and other means of production. Our hope, our goal, is to not attempt to plunder House Kennex and Stormward. Stimulating Stormward's economy, aiding them in creating jobs, and returning it to a stable state with a gently stroking finger is far better than trying to solve its needs with a jabbing fist. Those that wish to depart, shall. Those that wish to remain, we hope to assist in providing with enough assistance to begin promoting their own interests and self-reliance."

Hadrian pauses for a moment before he adds, "Let us not forget that the Pirate King is not dead. He has not be slain. He's still a threat. The Mourning Isles in turmoil, even if only one section of it, makes the rest of us vulnerable. So a strong Mourning Isles promotes a strong everywhere else."

"I have read your white with my own eyes. I know well what your position is in the house. Does Kennex ask a lifeline to Grimhall and Thrax? Because if so, Kennex needs to sit, with Grimhall, and with Thrax, and with the crown or their representative. People are -dying- Marquessa. You are on an island, and the only escape for anyone is by sea. Noble your intention and by virtue of being Marquessa they are as well your intentions, what's done is done and Thrax or Grimhall has no intention at this moment to depose or any other such manner, remove individuals from power. We seek to stabilize, to stem damage. We seek to ensure that when the smoke clears, there is still something to salvage. I re-iterate, what is done is done. There cannot be an undoing, there is no magic to turn back time. We will, as will all others-" Alarissa lifts a hand to gesture to the table. "Wish to see this end, and to see the damage. What has been done, hurts the compact as a whole. Coin spent to shore up Kennex, is coin that could better well have gone to bolster defenses at a time when we are beseiged by enemies. So. You and your husband need to sit with mine, and the Duke, and whomever the crown sets. That, Marquessa, is what that lifeline entails. What happens after, is wholely dependent on the actiosn of Kennes before, during and after this crisis is handles." Hadrian's words are listened to and the Voice of thrax nods. "Far from gone and our new allies can only do so much to buy us time. Time slowly being lost."

Merek eventually makes his way on quietly.

Aneka, 3 Iron Guardsmen, Meeka leave, following Merek.

Wash joins his brothers and Marquessa at the big table, now that he cannot skulk in the background.

Blacktongue suddenly finds some dirt under his nails -very- interesting, nevermind the man is wearing gloves.

Wash has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Ian looks to Alarissa. "If Duke Grimhall were unhappy with his communication with my House, I would hope that he would have told me, given that I'm usually on his grounds with his men. Do you speak for him?"

Aethan takes the seat that Ian indicated, remaining silent as he listens to the meeting's progression. Though his brow furrows here and there, the somber expression he entered the room with does not otherwise change much. He does, however, incline his head somewhat to Wash when he joins them in sitting at the table.

Talen, as a completely not-a-numbers-guy, asks Jaenelle, "Could we jointly do the math and split our fiar share with the rest of the Crown? Like, take whatever people don't funnel into the Crow nand Faith, each Great House assumes a fifth of the refugees and then in turn, split that amongst the duchies and their vassals, so it funnels down evenly?"

Dante glances sidelong toward Talen at his words and grunts. "That might take a bit of doing, and could end up splitting families trying it that way, but I agree one house shouldn't take a heavier amount than others just because they offered mor assistance with ships and the like." Dante seems to be speaking more or less to Talen himself, but falls quiet and leans in toward Calista to speak.

"You presume the refugee's wish to leave." Alarissa looks to Talen. "If anything, they and we need them to -stay-" It's politely spoken. "Stormward cannot function without the manpower, in as much as they would need the phsyical resources. Thrax's economy is quite literally built on the backs of these individuals. It has been a long held way of life, that will take decades, to extricate from. We need, Kennex needs those who would not revolt and would be willing to stay and work as paid labour, to work."

Talen notes to Alarissa, "They're not refugees if they're not trying to get off the island. I'm talking about those that need off, want off, so on and so forth," he absently muses, with a nod to Dante.

Ian doesn't insist that Alarissa answer his question when she ignores it.

"Than I am flattered at your interest, Your Highness." Vanora begins, her tons calm and gentle, if not especially diminutive. "I am well aware of the challenges we face. That people are dying. People who are your stewards and your vassals, who look to you when they look past any other house of the Mourning Isles because the fear is that great. I apologize if I seem at all as if I minimize that. I do not. House Kennex does not. "I am perfectly willing to sit down with you and your husband, as well as Duke Grimhall and whatever representatives of the Crown should join us. It was not a limit of my role that I was not included in this decision my husband made nor in the ways he went about it...and the ways he might have but not. Ford Kennex is my husband, yes. I do not believe my husband infallible. He is but a man like any other. If he has been invited to such a conversation, to such a meeting, and responded by ignoring or declining, I will do all I can to rectify that. Or I shall attend such a discussion myself and speak for House Kennex at that time. For no, we do not want enough rope to hang ourselves, or any rope at all. What we want is the lifeline. The ability to mitigate this situation for The Compact, for Arvum, for Arx, and not at all least for Thrax, whom we serve with duty and devotion."

"It would be diffcult to split it evenly as some great Houses have larger or smaller vassals and not all land is exactly equal in livable qualities" Jaenelle tells Talen, her eyes shifting as if she might actually be running the numbers. "Then there is the problem of how much each house earns through labor, trade, and how much it then pays out to its Armies, which are again not all exactly the same sizes. We have to be understanding to those that may not be able to do exactly the same as others, for each house has its own issues and challenges. There could certainly be a goal given to each Great house as to how many, if split evenly to alleviate the burden on any one family, but we must be prepared to step up and take what they are not able to offer." At Alarissa's words, she does offer a small nod of her head, "if they wished to stay as freemen and remain where they are, that will be something that the Kennex will then have to consider, as they must merge them into the economy as paid laborers and not paying."

"There is no intention to plunder House Kennex, Marquis Mazetti, though, since I am sure that you and I had similar instructors in Lycene history during our formative years, such has been done for much less offense amongst our forbearers. Still, this is a kinder, gentler time. So, we are being -kind- and offering assistance and help." Eleyna's pale eyes move toward the Kennex contingent and then she falls silent once again, pale eyes expressionless in her alabaster face.

The Jester raises his gaze to the ceiling and with a slight tilt of his head then, lifts both is brows with a private thought. For some reason or another, Blacktongue nods at something said.

"Then good, Marquessa. Because I would like to at some point, have you over for and delightful conversation. Instead of speaking of issues like such, in the laps of Velenoa's fealty. You have emerged, with those at your back who are responsible for me being where I am or are blood to me. I would so dearly love to see them all survive this. Send word to Grimhall, to Thrax. We extend a lifeline. Speak to us and we will get through this together. As we all did through the harbour tragedy. The compact at our back and wind in our sails." Alarissa offers to Vanora.

"So, where are we at then with what the Lyceum is planning to offer in assistance?" Calista pipes up with the hopes of wrangling the conversation and steering it to a more business-like setting.

Eleyna slowly rises from her seat, a bit awkwardly due to the bum arm. She clears her throat and glances from Alarissa to Vanora. "I think we have a good idea of what is required in aid. I thank you both for taking the time to come and speak with us. As I think we are now down to the details of what can be offered so we can present such information once it is all gathered, I'm sure you have better things to do than hear us toss numbers back and forth. I am sure we will be in touch with what aid can be offered." Eleyna offers a cool, but brilliant smile and nods toward the door after giving Alarissa and the Kennex contingent a pointed look. "Again, my thanks for the information offered. It will be extremely useful for us Duchesses of the Lyceum to decide wha we can offer."

Calypso leans in to murmur something to Talen briefly before she rises from her seat. She hands a small paper to the adjutant behind her and then nods for the exit. With a silent, apologetic gesture to the Hostess and Archduchess, she steps out in to the Courtyard.

Nightshade, a tiny black kitten, Penelope, Ariadne, 3 Rubino and Zaffria guards arrive, following Dafne.

Calypso has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

6 Malvici Guards, Adjutant General Vincenzo di Malvici leave, following Calypso.

"I am not sure if most of you knew my grandfather" Jaenelle begins slowly, "this is kind, and this is gentle" using Eleyna's words. "My grandfather would have skinned Marquis Kennex alive for going against the status quo and for making Thrax look weak and unable to handle its own in the face of the other Houses. He would have then forced the rest of the house into thralldom to pay off the large debt that you might have caused with your honorable decision. My grandfather was not a kind or understanding man, and I am only grateful that he was not here for this for there would be no assisting as the compact is offering to do."

"If the results of the Liberators are anything to go by, and I don't know that they are, twenty percent of those freed will stay. Which means rehousing sixteen thousand freedmen. That amounts to a manpower shortage of roughly ninety six hundred people on Stormward. Does anyone here have a few hundred serfs that want to bend the knee to Kennex? Because it will take a good twenty years to replace that many warm bodies if we do it the natural way. I for one, prefer crewed men on my ships. They learn better, work harder, and fight more assiduously for their own profit than for mine." Wash asks lightly, practically joking, but serious enough in his calculations.

Dante glances toward Alarissa at her words and arches an eyebrow. Dante looks about ready to speak concerning the use of Thralls, but keeps his mouth shut with a glance toward Jaenelle, even before the Princess starts to talk, as if he bit his tongue because of her. When Calista speaks, Dante's attention shifts yet once more.

"Thank you, Malvici, Mazetti, Velenosa and Gemecitta, for allowing Thrax to sit in on the meeting. We are grateful for any and all aid rendered to Kennex, and the efforts direct or indirect, to see it stabilized." Alarissa states, taking that pointed look with a deep bow of her head to Eleyna before easing away from her seat so that she can ease away from the table and make toward the exit.

Alarissa's blue eyes pass over the Kennex family and thus her, and Vanora speaks again. "That is pleasant to hear you say. For I have had similar instructures in Lycene history during my formative years as well. I do not know if these are kinder times, so much as times when there is much distraction. It has pleased me immensely to recall how the houses of both the Lyceum and the Saffron Chain and Mourning Isles have worked together for common cause so often, even when at the same working against it amongst their own. I do not argue that steps that should have been taken were not on the path to this decision. It was reactive, and Lycene politicians and tutors teach us the opposite....to never be reactive or duped by our emotions but to think our movements through and carefully, that through them we can achieve what we set out to." She glances back to Alarissa and smiles, and this time the gesture might even be warm, or sweet, or something besides carefully crafted veneers of politics. "Yes. I would be delighted Your Highness. I am very curious about you for reasons far beyond this, as I am curious over anyone from another place who has been plucked from home and placed among the nobility of Thrax, without necessarily many of the crucial bits of education that those born in the Mourning Isles know. It does not serve me to pretend to be invincible and in constant control and so I shall not. There is much I need to learn." Her tangent is caught before it veers off too far and she restates. "I would love to visit at any point for company for company's sake. But I also will be there to speak to House Thrax, House Grimhall, and whoever else we come up with. I hope my husband shall join me but even if he is unable, I will be there, and I will speak for Kennex as we discuss the lifeline."

Hadrian's attention shifts toward Eleyna and he watches on in silence for a moment. A smile touches the far reaches of his mouth before he answers with both eyebrows dancing upward, "With so much talk of what can be taken from Stormward, I simply wanted to ensure that we weren't talking about plundering Stormward. I just wanted to know whether I should wear my plundering pants. They flap that can be unlaced in the front." Hadrian's attention drifts again up and down the table before he adds, "House Mazetti is willing to commit a quarter of a million silver. On top of that we'll be sending other supplies in the form of production equipment and the like, to Stormward. Additionally ships to assist with the departures of those who willingly choose to depart Stormward, but I'll be personally committing my time and energy toward convincing those who wish to depart, to remain and make a better life for themselves. Which the Arvum Refugee Relief Group will also be willing to assist with as well, as it falls within their usual efforts."

Dafne is not wearing black today. The little duchess arrives clad in a whisper of a sapphire gown, the colour of her house, expression grave, and inclines her head to those in attendance. "My apologies," she murmurs. "I was detained."

"Lovely," Talen replies to Jaenelle dryly, as if the thought of the complications do not please him, so he'll turn his mind elsewhere. When Eleyna stands to excuse non-Lycene company in face of knuckling down, he eases her chair back a little, yet seems ready to push it forward when she's to retake it. Alarissa's given a wave of his gauntlet, familiar enough.

The Fidante Duchess looks to the Fidante Sword and gives an arch of her brow as Alarissa recites all the Lyceum families save one. She sips her wine.

Dafne has joined the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Alarissa has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Olenna, Pellinor leave, following Alarissa.

Jaenelle notes Dante's arrival with a smile and wiggle of her fingers. Because she likes Dante. Even despite talking about skinning people alive, she seems rather cheerful. Thrax, ladies and gentlemen.

Since it's pretty clear that his place in this meeting is done, Ian uses the table to push himself to his feet. He bows over his cane to Eleyna, and then to a point right between Hadrian and Cambria that might be intended to encompass both of them. Then he'll pause to wait for Vanora, Aethan, and Wash before heading out.

Wash turns his attention to Hadrian. "You are going to have to show me these plundering pants." He insists. "I am having a hard time imagining the flap... what's the purpose of the flap?"

"Lovely. Duchess Daphne is here so we can make an official statement on behalf of Gemecitta, if you but give us a moment to converse." Grazia says with a smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes, turning to her co-Duchess and speaking in low tones.

Cambria does manage to give a finger-waggle of a wave to Ian - which is a good deal less formal than she's been the whole evening. Wash is included in this wave. However, Marquessa Vanora, and Aethan, are given something a touch more solemn.

Vanora has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

4 Kennex corsairs leaves, following Vanora.

Eleyna nods to Dafne as she enters, murmuring, "Fear not, I am sure we can catch you up. Come join us." She nods to Alarissa as she moves to depart and then looks to Vanora, a polite little smile on her lips. She does glance to Talen, brows lifting. The Archduchess does slant a glance in Hadrian's direction, a light smile curving her lips as she says, "That is quite enough about your flaps, Marquis Mazetti. The mental image is more than adequate."

Ian looks... a little bit worried about that wave.

Being a far newer arrival to the city, Aethan follows his brother's lead in this, and rises to his feet. He then waits for his brothers before departing the room.

Cambria might look pleased about that.

Aethan has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Ian has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Talen turns his eyes over the remaining Thrax once their liege leaves, a slight tilt of his head to nod to Eleyna, before he says evenly, "My lords and ladies," in offer of farewell. Then of Hadrian, "Between you and my uncle I think I'm going to have disturbing mental images." As the Thrax filter out, he then moves to occupy a seat, with a breath. "Much better."

Dante speaks quietly with Calista once more, but as Jaenelle takes note of his arrival, Dante gives Jaenelle a wink of greeting before his attention shifts to watch the Thrax leave. Drumming his fingertips atop the table, "So i didn't gather much from what I seen other than the hearing THrax cannot survive without these thralls."

Wash stands, backing away with Ian and Aethan. He levels a finger at Hadrian. "Pants. I shall insist upon it next time we gather."

Wash has left the A Rectangular Table Atop the Dais.

Hadrian offers a bow of the head to those departing. Ian and Wash though earn a subdued smile. Ian's attention paid to Cambria's wave is met by a slightly bob of Hadrian's head before he quietly murmurs, "She's still not taken her revenge for the goblet...", and then Ian is onward. Wash though draws Hadrian's attention before he admits, "It has many uses. Some far more lewd than others. They're super comfortable too. Whole front side of the pants - gone." Hadrian nods once before his attention turns, much more somber, back to the table and discussions.

Blacktongue holds up his hands in mock surrender. "Me? Disturbing images? Never, nephew. I was silent all the while."

"Thank you, your Grace," Dafne replies to Eleyna with a bow of her head. She settles in at the table, expression still thoughtful, and tilts her head to listen to her co-ruler.

"Thrax can survive without thralls. It's just figuring out the transition from the current state to the next. I won't belabor my stance on how I feel about all this. I only need to present some solid numbers to the King to prove that the Lyceum is as committed as the rest of the Compact to not letting Kennex drown like an unwanted puppy." Eleyna drums her fingertips on the table and looks to the Gemecittan duchesses, "Take your time. We can just take advantage of the Mazetti's hospitality. Did I hear you have brandy?"

Lucita sits silently watching as others talk and those representing the Thrax depart.

Blacktongue chimes in, "I hope I heard wine? For appearances, purely. I just so happen to look far more fetching swirling a sifter of something red."