Micana, the efficient amanuensis, Golden, a juvenile Oakhaven bloodhound arrive, following Lucita.

Gunther, a Rottweiler, Lucita arrive, following Estaban.

1 Velenosa House Guards, Dreya, an older woman in Velenosan livery arrive, following Saoirse.

Griza have been dismissed.


Serafine and Leta arrive, the former with her arm tucked into the blonde's, the Knights speaking quietly about weaponry and diamondplate as they enter the Audience Hall. Serafine looks about, the dark fall of her hair flicking over her back, wearing a dress for once, delightfully LYcene, and a long woolen coat lined in silk. The bangle around her wrist glints, catching the light as her grip on Leta's arm shifts, Leta wearing a similar one around her own wrist.

Having arrived far earlier than necessary, the Igniseri Lord lounges upon one of the benches in the Audience hall. Dressed in dark leathers and a cloak against the coolness of the season, Luis waits patiently for others to arrive.

Luis has joined the Inviting Couches.

Calypso steps in to the Audience Hall with Costas at her side. She inclines her head respectfully to Eleyna and Talen as she spots them both and moves to carve out a Malvici corner of the room for the rest of her arriving family and fealty to mingle at.

Ian arrived early and placed himself somewhere out of the way, which is where he is, now, drinking from a flask. His features are drawn and tense, deeply lined, but his unnaturally blue eyes are serene.

3 Velenosa House Guards arrives, following Jaenelle.

Mirari arrives, and immediately makes her way over to Calypso, leaning against the wall with her arms folded over her chest. She nods to a few people she knows, but doesn't speak to anyone.

Katarina arrives quietly amongst of the crowd of Lycenes filtering into the audience hall, armed with naught but a journal and writing utensils to take note. Eleyna and Talen are curtsied deeply to in silent respects before the Valardin is naturally drawn toward the sight of Calypso, whom she approaches to share a quiet word with before finding a seat for herself amongst the crowd.

Cadenza was already here waiting, sitting with Claudio who held her backpack as she had a notebook in her lap. Writing, she was nodding to Claudio who was saying something but she would shut her book then. "I know..." Shoving her notebook and such back in her bag, she would look up to those arriving. A smile graced her lips as she moved from where she was sitting to move over to where Luis was. Sitting down, that leather would creak a bit.

Cadenza has joined the Inviting Couches.

Alistair was already present in the audience hall before most showed up, he stands with his hands clasped behind his back.. stiff and dour as ever! Hes even wearing that Inquisition uniform. Of course thats because his Velenosian garb is not properly armored, and one shows up to a war council wearing armor... right?

The Fidante knight stands quietly as his gaze shifts between the people as they tickle into the audience hall. He waits patiently for the meeting to start, crossing his arms at the somewhat awkward silence, he can't help but smirk a little.

Shard arrives quietly, and entirely alone, looking distinctly out of place and distinctly non-Lycene, with her furs and leathers. She picks somewhere out of the way to stand, where she crosses her arms lightly over her chest and settles in.

Lucita walks in with Estaban and quietly heads for a spot to observe. Her amber gaze slips from person to person, nodding to acknowledge them.

Katarina has joined the Inviting Couches.

Grazia glides into the Audence Hall with her head held high and her expression carefully neutral. She curtsies politely to the Archduchess and moves to stand somewhere with her back ramrod straight, posture perfect.

The Mazettis are, for the most part, conspicuously absent. However, one lone Mazetti arrives quietly, and lingers near the back close to the doors, as if she herself doesn't intend to stay for the entire meeting. Alessia glances around briefly, focusing her attention on studying all of the faces around her as she waits to see what it's all about. A fairly new arrival in the city, she doen't seem to know too many people, so keeps to herself for now. She's wearing her leather armor. It is, after all, a war council.

Count Artorius arrives in the area surrounded by his personal guard, decked out in his armor as he looks to all present, a kind smile on his face as he moves to lean against the wall, watching and waiting for the meeting to commence...it is a war council.

Jaenelle does not have armor, so she shows up looking as she usually does...amazing. Exiting from the private hall, her eyes seem focused on a piece of paper with numbers scrolled the length. The people do not seem to bother her as she moves through the gathering with ease and grace, on her way towards a spot in her living room to observe.

Seated upon the thrones within the House Velenosa audience chamber, Talen and Eleyna wait for the crowd of fealty-sworn to gather before he rises, speaking out so his usually soft bassy voice reverberates into the chamber. "Greetings, family and vassals, welcome to our home. Today we will be discussing the overall strategy of our efforts in the ongoing crisis against the agents of the Darkwater Deeps. To begin, and to be clear, I will speak only specifically on the plans regarding the ground forces within the Lyceum. First and foremost amongst those locations within it, is Setarco, a threatened territory of our domain. It was agreed by the Crown and Compact that of Stormwall, Darkwater Reach and Setarco, we will be given the combined fleet to defend our shores. This shall be led by High Admiral Victus Thrax and coordinated on our side by Duchess Belladonna Pravus and Admiral Antonio Velenosa."

Estaban arrives with Lucita spotting those he knows and does not know and heads for a spot following her to listen.

Leta shows up to a war council wearing silk brocade in purples and yellows, and a feather in her hat. She does have weaponry. One arm is held by Serafine's, but she's gesturing with the other one, holding it at various lengths and heights as if to illustrate different sizes. "Not as good for armor, mind you. But it's got good reach, so..." she quiets down as the meeting begins, and stands there, fidgety.

Seated upon the throne at the front of the room, the Archduchess observes those that gather with a cool expression. She is dressed in silks, not leathers and there is no sword at her hip, yet she seems to be be encased in steel nonetheless. She nods in agreement of Talen's words, fingertips lightly drumming on the arms of the marble throne.

Costas is stone silent as he stands at Calypso's side, his leathery mug hung into an expression of utter neutrality that obscures all thought behind illegibility. The only indication of his aware presence at all is the slow turn of his thumb along the grip of the blade at his side as his palm rests habitually upon the pommel. An unconscious tick the swordsman is unlikely to ever resolve.

Ian nods to Lucita and Estaban, but otherwise isn't engaging much with people. He is paying attention, though. His focused gaze fixes on Talen, first, and then picks out others to follow their reactions. Also, he's drinking still. Fortunately, that flask is a big one.

"Now, as for the ground forces, we will be deploying the bulk of them in Setarco. We of course have a few other worries on the mainland, in and around Southport, but none as big as the ensured safety of our island Duchy which sits so close to the threat incoming. We entrust the fleet to break the mainstay of forces from the Marin fleet. Should that fail, we must have our soldiers ashore on Pravus lands to be ready to deflect them from any further damage. It is by the order of the Archduchess and at my recommendation that every vassal deploy here. We will be combine our armies en masse and prepare our battle plan. This I will coordinate with each house, with a single representative, while the rest of our strategy is to focus on individual missions. These missions will buy us the advantage of more than just numbers, but our tactics born of creativity and shrewdness, wits and talents. Every single area of the Lyceum has its strengthes and weaknesses. In a moment I will encourage people to stand for questions, or to pitch ideas, but allow me to continue for a short time longer." This, from Talen, continuing out his overview.

Luis gives a small wave and a nod to his arriving sister, Lucita and her husband Estaban, watching them for a moment before his attentions are drawn back to the discussion.

Katarina folds her fingers beneath her chin, shifting subtly in her seat upon an inviting couch to catch better view of the Archduchess and Archduke Consort as the meeting progresses, her pen resting idle against a scrap of paper while she absorbs his spoken words in silent contemplation.

Alessia remains standing at the back of the crowd, but her amber gaze is focused mainly on Talen and the Archduchess, intently listening to the plans so that she can relay them back to her family, wherever they are. Her eyes don't wander, her attention focused resolutely. She has with her a small pad of paper, withdrawn from her voluminous cloak along with a slim stick of charcoal, which she uses to scratch notes occasionally.

Artorius listens closely as he looks to Talen and Eleyna, eyes narrowed in thought as he looks to the table before him, a small hum in his voice as a single finger quietly taps against his table. This was gonna be hell of a battle.

"There will be forces that remain in and around Southport which faces its own troubles, as I mentioned. House Velenosa and House Malvici will coordinate on this jointly. Unless you are approached directly to involve yourself in this, I implore you, consider it well in hand. Focus yourselves on Setarco, on the lands of House Pravus, to see our allies there protected from an ill fate. Now, as for what you can -do-, let me say once more. I personally will be reaching out to each individual organisation within our domains. Every Duchy, March, County and Barony will receive word to commit their men to deployment to Setarco as we need. I will be speaking to only a head of household, a Voice, a Minister of Warfare or an appointed replacement for these in regards to the troops. This is so that I may streamline who I liaise with, then they can relay that to individual members of their organisations, their commanders and so on." A pause, then he says, "That said, I understand that the creativity in leadership is sometimes corraled by those burdens of duty. Not only this, there is only so much any one individual may do. We in the Lyceum are considered unconventional because we do what others haven't dared to, so I want to encourage that spark of ingenuity. We will be conducting 'Special Missions'," and the term gets a slight smirk, "aside from this singular 'Battle Plan'. Think of these missions as ways to gain an advantage in a way simply marching does not. Healers may set up encampments, special operatives may indulge in setting up traps, smaller groups of any type of ground troop may commit to a given focus-- such as rushing and using experimental warfare. I want ideas, I want leaders and I want people looking to support those leaders."

Alessia has joined the line.

Cadenza has joined the line.

Talen says, "You may now step forward and speak to pitch an idea, offer yourself as a leader to a mission-- even if you don't have an idea-- or to offer yourself as a free asset to such missions. You may also ask questions and share information if you feel it prudent to do so."

Mirari has joined the line.

Lucita's attention moves from those she was greeting to focus solidly on Talen as he speaks, her expression somber.

Ignacio has joined the line.

Turn in line: Alessia

Alistair has joined the line.

Calypso leans in to share a few quiet words with Estaban for a moment as she listens to everything going on.

Talen nods to Alessia, "Come forward whenever you're ready to speak," before he sits beside his wife, retaking his place upon the throne meant for the Consort of the Archduchess.

Alessia finally moves away from the back of the room and steps forward, the first to do so. She tucks her notepad away, and when she reaches a respectful distance from the thrones, she offers a deep bow. "My lord and lady," she greets. "I am Alessia Mazetti, and I would like to offer my services to lead or participate in a special mission. I don't have any specific ideas on how I may assist just now, other than a general idea toward scouting missions perhaps, but I offer my services in these times of need on behalf of House Mazetti."

Estaban nod his head to Calypso as he had leaned in to say something to her, once she replies he looks back at those stepping forward arms moving to cross over his chest.

"Lady Alessia Mazetti, we'll see to it that your name is marked down and should any floating ideas need an attached leader or missions require additional personnel, we'll see that you're contacted. I commend your willingness to do so and acknowledge House Mazetti's commitment to ever being involved in the defense of the Lyceum," Talen replies. "On the matter of scouting I'll only say we know the lay of the land of our own territories, so it will be less of a priority, yet that does not mean we won't need patrols to keep watch for any landfall from the enemy." There's a nod, before he calls the next, saying in a note of finality: "Thank you, Lady Alessia."

Turn in line: Cadenza

Alessia bows, and backs away several steps, before making way way for the next person in the line, glancing briefly to Cadenza in passing before she resumes her place near the back of the room. She pulls out her notepad again, and continues taking notes. She does glance toward the door briefly, as if she anticipates having to leave soon, but for now, she lingers, watching the proceedings.

Standing up slowly when it was her turn, she would turn to face Eleyna and Talen fully as she stepped. Bowing in that leather armor, Cadenza's baby blue eyes seeming intent. "My lord and lady....Princess Cadenza Velenosa,unless you have any thing specific in mind for me, would like to volunteer for any missions....possibly in Southport." There was a pause as she bowed her head. "I will of course keep any personal feelings of that situation in check to assure victory. As for what I can offer....I have been working on my combat skills but can offer my...insight on things as well."

Shard tips her head slightly to the side, eyeing Cadenza in silence.

Alessia eventually puts her notepad and pencil away, and glances around one last time. Then, she quietly slips out of the room, doing her best to do so unobtrusively.

"Princess Cadenza Velenosa, we will make note of the same request to assist, once again," Talen asserts to clarify Cadenza, with a solid nod, before he indicates vaguely with his bare hand. "It won't be necessary to support in Southport, as I have mentioned previously, as it is well in hand. If you have any stipulations in where you can go and what you can be involved in, raise them when you are reached out and offered opprotunities via the briefs in the coming days." Then, to the room in general, he says, "Ideas will be noted down, as will those names of people volunteering themselves, with a note of interest to lead or participate. In the case of those volunteering for missions without an idea to hand, we will reach out with those floated or planned that have yet to reach their required personnel requirements." Then, with a nod, he thanking Cadenza and bidding the next forth.

Turn in line: Mirari

1 Velenosa House Guards have been dismissed.

Dreya, an older woman in Velenosan livery have been dismissed.

Eleyna continues to watch each person that approaches the dais to offer ideas and volunteer for missions. Sybilla sits just off to the side, making notes of each person's contribution.

Mirari steps forward, a terse smile on her face as she inclines her head and bows fluidly, her arm sweeping out. "We spoke through messengers, so I'll just briefly affirm that I'm ready to move with the Mirrorguard wherever you both need them, I'm sure I'll hear from you again soon." She says, folding her hands in front of her.

Nodding her head she would smile then as she bowed before moving back to her seat. Sitting back down, she'd glance to Claudio before resuming just listening for now. Cadenza would relax a bit now...though her eyes cut to Mirari as it was her turn.

"Mistress Corsetina, thank you, yes. The Mirrorguard will likely be deployed under my personal purview and I would gladly have you to assist. As all know, we are a smaller but effective force. With House Velenosa's ground troops led by Archduchess Eleyna Velenosa and Archduke Dowager Niccolo Velenosa, that leaves me free to use the force effectively while Baron Stefano Gilden, Sword of Lenosia, is elsewhere with his own familial armies." That's long for, 'yeah, I gotchu, promise!' to Mirari. "Thank you."

Turn in line: Ignacio

Calypso arches a brow just slightly as Mirari submits herself to the Mirrorguard. She glances from her vassal for a moment and then to Talen and Eleyna. "Forgive my outburst, Archduke. But I believe another mission was in order for Mistress Mirari that would keep her defending Southport. Why has that changed?"

"Duchess Malvici, do you speak of a mission under the direction of Duke Anze Malvici, or something else? If House Malvici and Southport require Mistress Corsetina specifically, we will find another Mirrorguard operative, if that's agreeable," Talen provides in answer.

Artorius has nothing to discuss, so he keeps looking forward then and keeps his ears peeled as the leader of House Magnotta watches on.

"The details of that mission are likely best discussed in a less public setting, your Grace. If you can forgive me for keeping them unspoken for this moment, it sounds as though they have changed. Though I would prefer that those dedicated to the protection of Southport are allowed to do so in this strange but pivotal encounter." Calypso says with a humble incline of her head.

"Then perhaps this mention should have been kept quiet if the details are not free to be divulged. No plans have been committed to as of yet. We are simply gathering ideas and seeing what people are available for what missions. If the Duchess of Southport has issue with any proposals made, she is free to join the line to speak on them directly or address us privately. Until then, we would appreciate no further interruptions so that the meeting can keep moving," Eleyna speaks up, her own brows arching before she looks to Talen to continue.

There's enough of a lingering pause by Talen after the interchange, then he tips out two fingertips towards Ignacio, inviting him forward.

Ignacio unclasps his hands and approaches once he is gestured forward after Calypso interjection is finished, bowing slightly before he introduces himself, "Your Highness, I do not believe we have been properly introduced. I am Lord Ignacio Fidante, Knight Captain of the Rose. Due circumstances where the Duchess nor the Voice will be able, to my understanding the Duchess will be sending me to lead House Fidante's forces. I would like to express concerns with the battle plans as they are. The plans as they are do not allow for a defeat at sea. Not being a naval commander, this concerns me. If the fleet is defeated or routed, it leaves the main body of our force stranded in Setarco. From my experience, I have learned even the best laid plans rarely survive first contact with the enemy. Do no mistake my words as cowardice or unwillingness, I merely wished to express my concern. I am willing to fill whatever role is required to protect Lyceum and will stand firm in the defense of her next to my fellow Toreans, even if such costs my life."

Estaban looks between the four, Mirari, Calypso, Talen and Eleyna his head tilting to the side but he remains silent arms still crossed over his chest as he listens.

Katarina looks over toward Ignacio when he voices his concerns, attentively absorbing the Knight Captain's words before bringing her attention toward Talen curiously to await his response.

Calypso spends a moment speaking quietly with Mirari. When those words are finished she gives a solid nod and makes a motion of apology towards Talen and Eleyna.

"Well met, Knight-Captain of the Rose," Talen says, his lips turned slightly, before he nods. "We acknowledge your concerns, we even share them," continues the Archduke Consort. "The true problem lies in that Setarco -must- not fall and should it, we can't reinforce it, then it becomes a nest of evil and lost to us. Its strategic value is high. If the fleet falls, we must have a second line of defense. If we do not have a certain force to repel anything leftover from the naval assault, it may still yet fall. In the unfortunate case that we are hit on the mainland, we at the very least have a far better chance at reinforcing our coastal cities than that of our island one. It's been deliberated over, long and hard, I assure you. This was weighed out as the best of many bad options. There are matters we are hesistant to speak of at large but there are considerations that render any plan we have as potentially imperfect but it's truly about finding one we can live with. This is it." There's a nod, once more, hoping that is conveyed sufficiently.

Leta stands by Serafine, watches and listens. That's pretty much it. Other than exchanging a few whispers with the Velenosa princess, she only occasionally reacts to the conversation. Otherwise, she fidgets with her clothes.

Artorius keeps his eyes directly on Talen, though his gaze shifts between a few others, namely calypso due to her interjection. A small nod to her in understanding then.

Ian has joined the line.

Grazia is listening patiently, still as a statue. Her posture is fairly stiff but perfect, hands folded against the small of her back, and her face schooled neutrally.

"Of course your highness, I am duty bound to express my concerns, which now have been expressed. My blade and House Fidante will go where is required." Ignacio gives once more a slight bow and waits to be dismissed so the next can step up.

Seymour enters late, seeming unbothered for his own tardiness. He finds a seat that is out of the way, quietly settling in to listen.

Seymour has joined the Inviting Couches.

Turn in line: Alistair

Alistair steps forward, unclasping one hand as he offers a bow to Eleyna and Talen. "I can provide myself and some trained Confessors of the Inquisition. I can... sniff out and warn against potential Abyssal magics. Considering the stories we have heard of our foes... it is safe to assume that these are not just wild pirates, following a barbarian madman. Warding is beyond my talents... but proper warning and targeting should provide an advantage, either at Setarco or Southport." The man remarks as his free hand clasps into a fist, "I will be offering prayers to the /Sentinel/ to guide us into battle. I welcome those who are devoted to the God of Justice to join me." The last part seems to be more then just a declaration of intent, as his gaze sweeps amongst those present, but the cryptic invitation is given no more detail as Alistair bows and steps back.

Luis has left the Inviting Couches.

Leana, an Igniseri Guard have been dismissed.

Cadenza would get that nod from Claudio then. When it was appropriate, she would bow to Eleyna and Talen, excusing herself to the next meeting. Waving to those she knew she would then move from that couch and made her way out quietly and respectfully.

Cadenza has left the Inviting Couches.

Isla, a small silver fox, 1 Velenosa House Guards, Claudio, the chivalrous knight leave, following Cadenza.

"Prince Alistair Velenosa," Talen says, addressing him as family over his capacity in the Inquisition, perhaps notably, "thank you. We'll mark that down. I am quite certain it will become important to ensure nothing hits the shores of Setarco and so I am very much of the mind we'll have a mission for that. Your talents will be well aligned to that goal, I do think, spotting signs of the Darkwater Deeps and its agents. Thank you. We'll be in touch as soon as we review our plans. That won't be long."

Turn in line: Ian

When there's a brief moment of silence, Ian clears his throat, half-raises his hand like someone in school hoping the teacher will call on them, and then (possibly remembering that he is not, in fact, in school) he says: "I just wanted to bring up the possibility that the... the infantry used against us might be the same... kind... of infantry as attacked Maelstrom last year." He's very clearly skittering around the edges of things, avoiding putting something into words, and doing it badly. He's definitely way, way out of his element here. "I don't know that this will be the case. But I think it's likely. Or at least worth considering." That seems to be all that he has to say.

Alistair manages a slight, ever so brief, smirk. He bows and steps back to allow others to come forward.

Duarte watched Alistair as Talen speaks, then shifts his gaze to the Archduke. Upon the conclusion of Talen's thanks, Duarte stands and approaches the line.

Duarte has joined the line.

"-Entirely normal- sailors, with a penchant for drinking far more than is healthy," Talen agrees, "despite their age. We have a plethora of notes, but the warning is still very much appreciated, thank you. If you have any further information regarding the most effective tactics against these infantry, in very broad, -carefully worded terms-, please continue. Otherwise, it may be best to do so in private. Reach me after, if it pleases you, Lord Ian Kennex," Talen invites, after briefly being given a name by an attendant.

Ian nods to Talen, and the fact that he then doesn't go on to say anything suggests that he's not going to be trusting his ability to speak in broad, carefully worded terms. "I'll be glad to talk with you, Your Grace, whenever you have the time."

Turn in line: Duarte

Duarte approaches and provides a bow in Eleyna's direction, "Your grace..." and then Talen, "Your grace..." He then stands propery and clasps his hands together, "Duarte Amadeo, Count of Bravura on the island of Nilanza." he states for the record. "I wish to submit a possible matter of concern for which Prince Alistair may be peculiarly suited. Preliminary reports from the docks of Setarco have showed several proper citizens leaving their posts to flee the coming army. Their jobs have been willingly filled by prodigals - many of whom arrived and bent the knee after their homelands were attacked by the Pirate King - something I found very odd." He allows a moment's pause, "Why would one flee from such a location to the very port that is rumored to be the next point of attack?" He shrugs a shoulder, "I do not know. But it is perhaps a useful shred of information that may find proper assignment to the Inquisition." He bows respectfully and backs away.

Shard starts to say something before she seems to remember herself. She stays quiet, and watchful.

"Count Amadeo," Talen says, bowing his head, in clear thanks, "thank you very much for bringing this to light. It sounds like you have information that might be of great use to us in combating the machinations of the enemy. In this, I must commend you. Would you be content to share the information in the very least, and if possible, greater lead or assist in this mission? You are right, I believe Prince Alistair may have the talents you seek to see that idea come to fruition. We would be pleased to provide resources and additiona personnel to see it through, naturally."

Duarte takes another step forward so he may address the question. "As of yet, the reports show no clear indication that those who have filled these roles on the dock are indeed sworn to the enemy." He cants his head, "But of course, an intelligence agent's job would be to keep just such a thing from being disclosed." He bows his head, "I shall submit the scant details I have and would be happy to assist in any future plans concerning this possible matter." He bows again and once again steps back.

"Perfect. Thank you, Count Amadeo, you are a credit to the Lyceum," Talen voices, before he makes for a final call, in case of any additional individuals. "If anyone wishes to propose wacky ideas, good or bad, please step up. Offers to lead missions or support them are also most welcome. Questions and flagging that you have information. Please come forth, if so. If not, we will close out. I will follow up and submit a fealty-wide bulletin soon so you may all read the highlights of today. Private correspondance with myself is also encouraged for those who have matters best left to securer channels."

"Those who abuse the graces of the Compact but bending the knee with false promises and false pretenses are the worst of the foes we face." Alistair rumbles out with a nod to Duarte. It is a particular matter for the Prodigal Prince.

Shard's lips thin. She flicks a sidelong glance toward Duarte, then Alistair, though there's little to read in her guarded expression.

The line has been dismissed by Talen.

Calypso is overheard praising Talen for: Succinct and productive war meeting, not easily accomplished!

Calypso is overheard praising Eleyna for: Succinct and productive war meeting, not easily accomplished!

Artorius is overheard praising Talen.

Artorius is overheard praising Eleyna.

Serafine is overheard praising Eleyna for: For putting up with us.

Estaban is overheard praising Talen.

Talen says, "Very well. The meeting is adjourned officially. We are here for those who need for a short time before our next appointments. Thank you, everyone."

Estaban is overheard praising Eleyna.