Clover has joined the Cavalier Table.

Clover slips in quietly, a bit early, and finds herself a nice seat.

Thorley has joined the Cavalier Table.

"Thank you, everyone, for coming." Alis holds both her hands up to gather everyone's attention and begin the meeting; behind her is an easel where a map has been set up with different colored pins. "After the Council meeting yesterday, this is where we currently envision each fealty's troops to be stationed." Specifically, she points towards Setarco. "For the time being, we are to muster our fealty troops at Setarco. His Majesty has also tasked General Calypso with looking into how many troops we may be able to support sending to Darkwater to bolster the Thrax ground troops, without overwhelming supplies or our command team in having to manage a separated army." she explains. "This was before word arrived that the pirate fleet may have encroached the island already. I will send word through each Duchy when a final decision has been made." she promises, and then gestures first to Arn (pretend he's here) and then to Cristoph. "For this engagement, the strategic command team will be Duke Arn Telmar, Duke Cristoph Laurent, and myself. I would ask that every other House sending troops (PC Houses, obviously) appoint a lead person who will assist the commanders in disseminating orders and organizing their house troops. Once you have chosen, please let the three of us, plus Prince Edain, know. Are there any questions so far?"

Alban makes his way into the great hall, and after a polite bow moves quietly over to sit beside his House mates, taking a seat near to Clover and Thorley.

Alban has joined the Cavalier Table.

On escort duty with the other usual guards for the Duchess Farshaw, Thorley moves quietly with a quick bow to take his seat, his expression pensive as he starts to take in the information presented, not speaking for the moment.

The Prince of Sanctum enters the Vow, his elbow resting on the hilt of his sword as he moves to the head of the hall, "I thank you all for coming, and for answering the call when we called our banners. I stand here humbled by everyone's efforts." He looks to his his sister bowing to her as she lays out the strategy, "Also as the amount of forces we can get to Setarco may be limited, we might also be reinforcing Southport where we think would be their next target if they try to sail past Setarco and engage elsewhere." Edain says, "But for now, we will be going to aid the South, while the Grayson send their ground forces north to help Stormwall hold against the fleet attacking there."

Kael steps into the Vow, for once not being accompanied by his wife. The young Keaton Count is rather solemn, which might not be unexpected given the circumstances and certainly is not unusual for him. He glances toward the tables, a brief thing, but does not take a seat just yet. No, his full attention resting on Alis as she begins. He shakes his head -- an answer to her question at the end rather than any negative connotation attached -- and settles back against a pillar.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa arrive, following Marian.

Cristoph has been here for quite awhile! He's found a spot at one of the table and is settled at the edge, listening carefully. He doesn't have any questions. Though he does squint at the idea of sending people to the Darkwater under its current conditions. There's a flick of his eyes to Edain when he mentions reinforcing Southport. His knuckles graze the side of his jawline.

Alis returns Edain's bow, and gives a succinct nod to go along with his additional information. "Please note that the Ministry of Defense is also gathering any spare military equipment and supplies ahead of time, so that we are prepared to assist any of the Compact's armies if needed. I will be happy to give everyone the details before we leave, but do not feel obligated to contribute. Your own preparations come first." is said firmly, a glance over at Cristoph given when she sees the squint. You know she saw the squint, right? "I would say, at the moment, it isn't likely that we will be going to Darkwater. Not with the... conditions being reported there at the moment. Once everything is formalized, we will send notice to begin preparing your troops."

Clover's eyebrows pinch together at something, but quiet discussion at her table she gives a serene smile and a nod. She looks between Edain and Alis for now, listening.

Marian quietly makes her way into the meeting, having arrived late because of other matters. She steps in and then looks to find a seat as the military discussion goes around her. She nods quietly as they speak of supporting Southport during the crisis.

Marian has joined the Cavalier Table.

Derovai has joined the Quiet Alcove.

Derovai slips in towards the back of the great hall a few minutes late, a dark-clad figure. He catches Alis' words, but seems content to position himself out of the way of the nobles and tables, leaning against the wall in his quiet little niche, arms folded. He's a silent figure, opting to listen rather than speak.

Alban leans forwards slightly, resting his elbows on his table as he laces his fingers together, "I understand that there has been much discussion about tactics, and the general situation. I wish I had up to date information myself that I might be able to offer some insight, and know best how to commit House Farshaw's troops." Alban comments, "It sounds to me that the Pirate Fleet has already engaged Darkwater, if that is the case, do we have enough vessels to attempt to break their blockade, split their forces, and provide some relief from the seige to buy time until our ground forces arrive?" He asks this last bit curiously, "Again, I do apologize but it appears I am coming into this information late, and wonder how best to marshal the forces of Westrock."

"Yes.. shortly after we left meeting with the other HIgh Lords and the Ministry of Defense the reports of what happened with Darkwater Watch came in. Sadly it means that no matter how successfull we are... we likely will have an even more brutal fight ahead reclaimng the Darkwater Watch... if it is even still on the otherside of the darkwater and the fog." The Prince of Sanctum frowns and continues. "You fleet lead by Princess Admiral Caelis and Princess AAdmiral Katarina will rally with the combined armada of the Compact, we will attempt to stop the fleet that is sailing towards Setarco." He looks to Alban and says, "Thank you Lord Alban, Any military forces you can commit you can coordinate with Princess Alis. Any ships you think can aid in the fight, Can marhsall with Princess Caelis."

"What are we doing with the knights and their horses?" Cristoph asks, looking between Alis and Edain. "I know it was a concern that we might not have enough ships to transport all of our troops adequately. It's why other plans were being drafted at one point. If it's not worthwhile to try and move all of them, maybe we should be more seriously considering reinforcing Southport."

"Thank you for your questions, Lord Alban." Alis smiles over at the Westrock Lord. "A nod is given her brother when he addresses part of the Lord's concern. "Your ground troops will head with the rest of us to Setarco so we can hold against any pirates that make landfall. As Duke Cristoph points out, our cavalry we have a bit of a logistical issue with. Suggestions are welcome, but I feel as though reinforcing Southport with them, or having them remain behind as guard for our homes while substituting them for more infantry are our best options. Thoughts?"

"The reason I strongly held back my humble cavalry," rumbles Kael from the back, chinning toward Cristoph in a vague manner even as he is folding his arms across his chest. "Quick movement, quick defense of my lands, and those I have vowed to aid. I am willing to offer more up if it is to reinforce Southport." There is just that single comment from him however, Kael falling back to silence soon enough thereafter.

Clover speaks up now to say, "Realistically, and Lord Alban can correct me if I am wrong, but as the Duchy of Westrock Reach if a series of Archipalegos, our 'ground forces' do tend to have sailing experience. Likely more so than the more mainland forces."

Holden listens with interest from where he has taken up a position off to the periphery. The quiet knight turns his attention from one to the other as they speak. When the topic of knights and their horses come up, he seems particularly interested, nodding thoughtfully to the answers given.

Alban settles back into his chair with a thoughtful expression, but otherwise just listens now. When Holden speaks Alban quirks his head to the side, "Cavalry locked inside during a seige is less effective than even a common foot soldier. It is something to consider making sure our Cavalry is mobile, and able to have range to roam." He offers politely conversational.

Marian does give a glance to Edain and Alis, carefully broaching the topic, "If there are ground troops that are not better served at Setarco or Arx. I would be happy to have the additional help." She does admit to the duo, "I do have the Faith offering assistance but it would be useful to have skilled horsemen for a quick get away through the passes if we need to withdraw from Stormwall and take them down by land on the way to Fairhaven."

"Understood." Alis inclines her head towards Clover. "If they wish to join with, and sail with the naval fleet then they will be welcome to do so of course. But the ground specific forces heading to Setarco will primarily be on land. Where sailing experience might be most useful during patrols if they see anything out of the ordinary from any vessels then encroach too closely to the Island." is suggested, thoughtful. "And yes, that is part of why we won't be bringing mounted cavalry onto the Island itself. The other part being the issue of transporting them obviously." Her gaze swings towards Marian. "Will you be at the Ministry meeting tomorrow, Princess Marian? I am not averse to the idea, since we have excellently trained cavalry. But there has been such a large emphasis on keeping each fealty in one place and under one command for this engagement. We could discuss it with General Calypso?"

"Troops in Arx?" Cristoph queries, looking at Marian with a faint lifting of his eyebrow and then sweeping his attention again to the High Lord and his voice. He seems settled on the subject of the cavalry for now, content with the answer that's been given.

"Duchess Calypso." says Clover, mildly. A glance is given toward Marian, but she looks back toward Alis and asks, "Can you tells why it is believed Southport will be a target if not Setarco?"

"Yes, I do plan to be at the meeting tomorrow," Marian tells Alis with a smile, giving a polite nod to let her know she appreciates the consideration, "I do understand Duchess Calypso's want not to over complicate the matter but I think in cases like this where a specific type of ground troop can't be realistically transported then it makes sense to move those forces to an area where they can do some good." She gives the floor to another so she doesn't greatly disrupt any of the war discussions. It's clear by her demeanor, she is there as a guest of House Redrain. She turns to Cristoph, "As a continguency...in case the enemy moves their targets. Darkwater is four days away from Arx."

"The Iron Guard and King's Own will be remaining behind in Arx. And there is the possibility of our... Nox'Alfar allies being called upon to assist in Arx if something unexpectedly dire happens." Alis reports crisply. "I would agree, Princess Marian. I very much want to make sure our cavalry is put to good use." And she sounds fervent about it too. "As for the reason Southport may be a target, there was a report of another threat trying to scout Southport for weaknesses." For that, a nod towards Clover.

Kael tilts his head toward Alban, a brow lifting in a mild manner, but he offers forth nothing further. Instead he'll keep his post in the back and continue to listen to the proceedings.

"I didn't realize there was a contingency plan to station additional troops in Arx as well, from the noble houses." Cristoph replies, frowning and once again casting his eyes to the others in the room. When Alis mentions that the Iron Guard and Kings Own will be staying, he appears mollified and settles down again.

Edain nods to Marian and says, "The Grayson are closer and can get their forces to STormwall quicker than we can. But if our Cavalry cannot be utilitized in the south, then I think sending them to Stormwall is wise."

"I cannot speak for the other Generals, Lords, Ladies, Princes, and Princesses." Alban says, "But three forces." He holds up a hand with three fingers out, "Seems very much like an attempt to spread our forces thin enough that we cannot protect them all. It also seems very much like a distraction. The loss of any of our people, any of them, is keenly felt but we cannot afford to leave the whole of Arx unguarded. At least," He pauses, "Such is my thinking, for whatever that is worth."

Alban is clearly in support of stationing troops in Arx.

Derovai tilts his head at Alban's words from where he's perched in the alcove, but he says nothing, his gaze drifting back to Highlord and Voice.

Clover frowns a little and asks, "Is that report available to read? Where did it come from? Who reported it? Is this threat related to the Gyre? Or is it a distraction to take our troops away from the real target?"

Clover also obviously said 'pirate king' and not 'gyre', player typing too fast.

Alis is solemn, as she nods her agreement with Alban. "You are not wrong, not at all. Which is why the Iron Guard and King's own will remain. And Arx is built to be able to withstand a siege. Perhaps not as well built as it was prior to the Bringers of Silence. But, His Majesty and the Ministry both feel that the Iron Guard, the King's Own, and the promise of aid from our allies is sufficient to protect the city until reinforcements arrive. There are also the recently acquired ballista that can assist in protecting the Port from incursion." she adds. "I'm sorry, Duchess. But I do not have a detailed report. I am trusting in the information I was given during the recent council meeting. We can certainly request additional information though?" Her tone lilts in question, with a glance given to her brother.

Clover tilts her head toward Alban, before smiling toward Alis, "I would definitely like some more information on how or why southport would be a target, your highness."

"Well we are only defending two out of the three targets... with what we've learned about Darkwater Watch, unless some ships are able to get close enough to tell us otherwise.. it sounds as if that is already lost." Edain says with a frown. He looks to Alis and says, "The King is certain of the Ministry of Defense's findings, and without his blessing bringing troops to Arx will violate some of the compact's oldest laws." He looks to CLover, "Is there a reason you distrust that SOuthport is a secondary target? Do you think there is one more likely if the continue to move west past Setarco?"

"Is there a reason I should trust it is?" asks Clover, her eyebrows drawn together. She says, "It hasn't been one and now it suddenly is? Doesn't it seem convenient? You don't think it could be a potential distraction tactic to keep us from fortifying Setarco adequately?"

Alban bows his head to Marian after a brief conversation at the table they share and then opens up some briefs he was provided to begin leafing through them before he looks up to address the assembled. "I do not doubt the intelligence that has been provided, it is however new information that we were unaware of until this very moment. It is quite a large shift and we are merely wanting to be... kept in the loop, so that we can make the best informed decision as we can. It is not a matter of trust, it is a matter of Faith. Dogma states that we are all encouraged to think for ourselves, to learn, to advance ourselves before the Thirteen. Blind faith is another thing entirely is it not? We have all recently seen what damage blind faith and zealotry can do have we not?" He asks politely.

"The King is just trying to be prepared for other possibilties. We are going to be limited in how many troops we can even get to Setarco, because most of our ships will be ralling with the fleet. The combined fleet will be attempting to intercept the fleet heading for Setarco, and if that is successful there might be no fighting in Setarco itself. My understanding is that Southport is nothing but a 'best' guess, and we're only going to be asked to send anyone there if we cannot get all our forces ferried to Setarco before those ships need to join the armada and crush the fleet heading west."

Cristoph leans his face into his hand briefly before sitting up. "We can't exactly /get/ all of our troops into Setarco anyway. So we're talking about the overflow heading to Southport to defend it. /Possibly/. If the fleet decides to skip Setarco and come to Arvum, they'll likely hit that part of the Lyceum first. Artshall is adjacent to the Lyceum and I'd prefer it not be compromised if at all possible." He drops his hand. "Which all might not even matter, I've seen no indication that Duchess Malvici wants our help down there."

"My apologies. I must have stated things in such a way you thought more troops would be sent to Southport then are intended." Alis offers with a smile. "And at the very least, we can't send cavalry to Setarco anyhow. A few to Southport and a few to Stormwall would at least ensure they are put to best use."

Alis looks around, curious. "Are there any other questions about the current plan? Does anyone need anything in order to prepare before the final orders are sent through?"

From his little makeshift spot in the back, Kael is shaking his head. Negative.

Cristoph shakes his head from his spot.

Alban folds his briefs closed with a nod of thanks to Marian before he looks over towards Thorley with a bit of a concerned frown but then he asks, "I do have a question. If you will permit me." He stands, "We are sending troops to Southport, on a guess. We are sending troops to Setarco, fully understanding they may skip it. What we have not discussed, is Darkwater itself. Is it still possible to enter the city, and turn it into a tomb for those who would take it? When this seige is done, it will likely need to be razed and rebuilt alread. It is a hard thing to discuss, but one, I think, that must be."

Edain shakes his head to Alban, "Again we don't know. And we are going to have to hope that the Thrax can get some eyes on the the Darkwater Watch and get back to us in time to adjust our plans if we can still get to it to help hold it. We are not in a position to send a ship there ourselves, and our lands are not directly threatened. We are going to have to trust the information our allies are bringing us. This is a battle that is going to test our ability to adapt as the situation changes on is, which it certainly is going to do."

"When one is dealing with the type of pirates that we are, it is near impossible to be absolutely certan of anything. But, based on what we do know, Setarco is the likeliest place that the pirate fleet is heading." Alis admits, tacking on to what her brother has said. "Darkwater, before the latest information was received, is a place we intended to reinforce and possibly defend using a great deal of, mmm, perfectly ordinary fire." is explained next, tapping the map lightly before she turns back around. "But, the most recent information suggests that Darkwater has been overtaken. If not by the pirates, the by a natural phenomenon that has filled the area with dense fog and difficult to navigate oily patches of water. Conditions that apparently these pirates are adept at fighting in. But, none of our forces, even the Thrax ones, are nearly as good in. So, we are going to meet them where we think we can be at our strongest. Which, right now, is Setarco. But, if it changes, then we will change too. As needed."

"I see. Thank you. I apologize for the interuption." Alban bows deeply and then retakes his seat at the table.

Alis shakes her head. "There is no need to apologize. Questions are always welcome." She smiles then, though it lacks her usual sparkle given the topic at hand. "I will make myself available for any and all military matters that need to be discussed between now and the time we leave to engage the enemy. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me."

Clover sits quietly for now, hands folded in her lap. Apparently no more questions to ask.

Marian quietly stands as matters wrap up with the Valardin military meeting. She gives a silent look to Edain and Alis as if she's thanking them for inviting her. Then she makes her way out of the meeting.

Marian has left the Cavalier Table.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa leave, following Marian.

"Thank you you all for that you have done. Hopefully t he Armada will crush this fleet at Setarco, and Stormwall bleeds the fleet that has gone north and we can look to how we can reclaim Darkwater Watch. Gods go with you all."

Holden listens all the way through, apparently not having any questions or anything to add for the time being. He settles back where he leans for the time being, considering, his attention shifting to Alis and Edain for several long moments, and then he begins to straighten as things wind down. stretching just a little bit, before turning to make his way out.

Derovai offers a brief, wordless smile at something. Then he slips out from the alcove, heading for the door, strolling casually through the hall without a single comment.

Kael tips his head when Marian makes her way out and thereafter straightens up from his lean back against the pillar. He nods respectfully to Duke Laurent, offering him a wry look to go with it, but he continues on toward Clover. "Duchess Farshaw," he murmurs, executing a quick bow. "My wife would wish to give you her regards, so I shall in my stead. A good evening to you and yours." Thereafter he is shifting his focus to Alis and Edain. Similarly to Holden, he bows toward the Valardin pair.