Mal, a devious raccoon, Daegmund, an Oakhaven Shepherd arrive, following Shae.

Dame Marra, a limping fennec fox, Disciple Ismay, Disciple Fulgence, 3 Templar Knight guards arrive, following Ailith.

Alix, a young Oakhaven Shepherd arrives, following Kedehern.

Hickory, a young sighthound, Russel, a discreet assistant arrive, following Cahal.

While there isn't quite the same spread of food as one finds when they attend a meeting at Keaton Hall, there is a very nice selection of hors d'oeuvres and small desserts available, along with fresh juice, milk, tea, and some wine or spirits. The meeting tables have been arranged in a u-shape, and from the end of one of them stands Alis so she can call the meeting to order. "Thank you all for coming. What we would like to focus on today is hearing what actions you have planned to take, and what help you might need to carry them off. Or, if there is something to be addressed that you think we are currently overlooking as it related to the various... challenges that are plaguing the Oathlands lately." A gesture is made towards Duke Laurent and Marquis Keaton, then. "We're here to listen. Make yourself heard."

Ailith has joined the line.

Fecundo arrives well on time, hand in hand with his wife, Isidora. There is a soft smile on his face and he finds a place for them to sit, letting her do so first and kissing the back of her hand before he releases it and settles beside her.

The line has been dismissed by Cristoph.

Ailith has joined the line.

Kedehern has joined the Main Floor.

Shae had quietly made her way into the Vow, and headed for a seat out in the main floor. It is when she is moving to take her seat that her cough tings out into the quiet, and she cringes a touch as she quickly sits the rest of the way down. Next to her betrothed, Kedehern.

Shae has joined the Main Floor.

Near the front of the room, Cristoph has already found himself a seat and a glass of red wine. He leans back in his chair, watching the various people as they pile into the room. When Alis speaks up about people speaking, he lifts a hand and states, "Perhaps anyone that would like to speak can get in line. So as not to create situations where people are talking over one another?"

With the soft chimming of multiple bells, the Lady Rivenshari arrives and takes a seat. Gone are the lady's colorful skirts and scarfs, instead Eshra is in leathers, her dark hair braided, which mutes a good many of her bells and a tired look on her face. The red boots those are the same however.

Isidora has a hint of a smile on her lips as Fecundo kisses her hand. Her face then returns to the back to the stoic mask her face usually is in.

Kael is nodding his head when he is gestured to - having arrived just a few minutes early with his wife, Reigna. There is a move to seat her at the table before he adopts a bow to both Duke Laurent and afterward Princess Alis Valardin. With that done, he settles down at the table and takes a deep breath. Of course his assistant, Vern, is zipping over to him with a bit of parchment (some with words already scripted) upon it, and some blank for additional note taking. The Keaton Marquis looks tired but that is nothing at all new.

Tescelina arrives alone and moves toward the main floor, taking a seat in the back and sitting upright with her hands in her lap.

Derovai sauntered in a few minutes ago, and by the time the meeting is called to order, the man has found himself a chair to comfortably slump into, and a cup of tea to occasionally sip at. He's brought a small, well-worn notebook with him, though there's no visible writing implement. He's been thumbing idly through it, though as the meeting begins he tucks it into a pocket and looks up attentively.

Turn in line: Ailith

Cahal takes a place at the table and folds his hands atop the surface. Alert and attentative his eyes drift between the various people settled at the table.

Reigna is looking quite a bit better since her accident, though she is still moving slowly. Reigna sits and then watches Kael and the others, resting comfortably in her chair.

The small retinue of Templar guards are left outside the doorway to the great hall whereas the Legate of Concepts continues ahead, her stride long and purposeful, to halt before the leaders of the Oathlands. Ailith bows, with a sweep of her aeterna robes, acknowledging each Voice and Marshal, and rises with her eyes set firmly upon the Champion of the West. "Princess Alis, thank you for your kind reply. The Faith has not turned a blind eye to the threats facing the Compact. Many leaders present today have the full support, not only of our Faith Militant, but our Mercies, Devotions, and Seraphs. Of that support, I leave it to your vassals and Voices to present as I would not wish to usurp their leadership and counsel to more fully address all their issues. What I do offer, and the main reason for my presence, is to alieve any concerns regarding the lands the Faith now owns on the border between the Oathlands and the Northlands, as well, as to clarify any current involvement by the Faith in regards to activity within the Oathlands." She then steps aside.

Holden has parked himself unobtrusively off to one side near the front of the room, for certain values of 'unobtrusively' when applied to a large man wearing rather a lot of metal. This position puts him that much closer to Alis should anyone attempt to attack her. (Not that he thinks that will happen, of course, but plenty of unexpected things have happened in the past decade and change; at this point, better to be prepared.) The knight does not seem to say himself, though he watches with apparent interest as the speakers step up to say what they feel they need to say.

Bells chime gently as a merchant makes her way in, finding a place in the back to observe, getting out quill, ink and paper so she can take notes.

"Thank you, Legate. Does anyone have any questions for Legate Ailith while she has generously offered her time to us?" Alis lifts her voice, to rise above any of the murmurings and the scratchings of quill against paper.

Fecundo observes the proceedings quietly, leaning to speak quietly to Isidora here and there, though he seems to pay a good deal of attention to what is presented and asked.

"I'd like to take this moment to thank Legate Ailith for offering to assist in the situation between Houses Fournier and Daveiga in the south. Her personal time is greatly appreciated by House Laurent and I'm sure all of the other houses involved in that particular situation." Cristoph raises his eyebrows and looks around the room and tacks on, "Does anyone have anything they'd like to present specifically to their own regions of the Oathlands?"

Eshra has joined the line.

Turn in line: Eshra

1 Rivenshari Clansman, Lucky, the fishing cat, Patock, A clever Youth arrive, following Athaur.

Skiftfeather - an Elegant Snowy Owl have been dismissed.

Morigan Bradshaw - Nurse and Doctor in Training have been dismissed.

Fayre Wyrmfang - Excitable Champion have been dismissed.

1 Valardin Knights have been dismissed.

Jaibrian - Oathlands Vanner have been dismissed.

Patock, A clever Youth have been dismissed.

Lucky, the fishing cat have been dismissed.

With the arrival of the Legate of Concepts, Kael is turning the full of his attention toward her - mind you, after a swift glance cut back toward Alis. He nods his head deeply, respectfully, to Legate Ailith. It should be noted that the bow of his head remains for a tremendous time in humble nature. Is the Keaton Marquis one of the Oathlands Orthodox? Quite likely. "No questions from myself," offers forth Kael once his chin lifts and he is glancing across the chamber as a whole. He is nodding to Cristoph and adding in the wake of his wods, "It should be noted that House Keaton stands with the Faith; with Legate Aureth and his ride."

1 Rivenshari Clansman have been dismissed.

When silence falls over the room, the sound of bells break through it as Eshra stands, her hands settling on the tablke before her. "Good evening. For those that do not know me.." her dark eyes scan a number of unfamilar faces. "I am Lady Eshra, Voice of the Rivenshari and Admiral to Telmar." pausing and turning her eyes back to Alis. "We have deployed the Rivenshari fleet, it will patroling the rivers, both to help protect as well as to pass information." pausing nods at Cristoph. "I beleive that was his Grace's request?" then looking back. "The fleet has... grown.. since it's last deployed so I ask that the houses let their people know so that they are not surprised to see a good many ships on the waters."

Athaur slips into the room quietly. Or attempts to anyways, the cacophany of bells he wears makes stealh slightly difficult. He drops into a chair next to Eshra, and then stands up again as she starts speaking.

Reigna perks up as Ailith speaks, her expression brightening. Despite her injuries and fatigue, when the Legate speaks, she is paying close attention and beaming her way.

Cristoph lifts his voice, "Thank you, Lady Eshra. It's a much needed move to get some eyes on the waterways, considering everything that's going on. If anyone here would like to lend the Rivenshari your assistance in managing this task, I would speak with Lady Eshra or Count Athaur. I'll be lending some of House Laurent's ships to the task... as well as House Valardin? If Princess Alis doesn't mind of course."

Alis speaks quietly with Ailith for a moment, looking up when Eshra glances her way to give the woman a brief nod of agreement. And then towards Cristoph as well. "Of course; please just touch base with Princess Caelis. Or, I can do so. As our Admiral she might be a bit alarmed if our ships suddenly disappeared on her."

Fecundo continues to speak softly to Isidora as he watches how things progress.

Eshra nods. "Thank you both. I can not however stress enough for houses to make their own aware. It was not that long ago our ships in the water was considered Shav ships, It would be helpful if my Captain's did not have spend a good deal of their time proving they were not invading."

Turning his focus to Eshra, Kael is nodding his head when the Rivenshari speaks. Instead of Alis for this, it is actually Cristoph that he glances toward. In the wake of his words, there is another one of his humble nods. Then, to Eshra, he's remarking, "House Keaton will add some ships and I will look at getting word out as much as I possibly can." A few words are spoken more quietly to Princess Alis and Duke Laurent.

Ailith disp her head during a quiet exchange with Princess Alis. Her hands are brought behind her, held militaristically to the small of her back. Her gaze sweeps gradually across the room, lingering whenever a member of the Peerage addresses Valardin, then passing over to smile greeting to Marquessa Reigna accompanied by a respectful head bow to Marquis Kael and Duke Cristoph following their addresses to the Faith.

There's a bit of quiet murmuring between Kael, Alis and Cristoph before the duke nods his head. "If you'd speak with Princess Caelis, I'm sure her involvement would be well appreciated. Also as Marquis Keaton has just suggested, House Valardin is prepared to allow House Rivenshari permission to use their sigil as they patrol the rivers on this task. Hopefully that will deflect anyone from being /rude/ as you're going about your business."

Athaur nods his head. "We would appreciate that. I will reach out to Princess Caelis about House Valardin's assistance."

Alis adds, "And if anyone /is/ rude, please do let us know. It will be dealt with swiftly." She /is/ paying attention despite keeping up with multiple murmured conversations at the same time.

Eshra nods to Kael and Cristoph, the glances to Athaur as he speaks waiting to see if he has anything else he would like to add to the topic before a slight, smile graces the normally somber woman's face when she looks back. "We will be sure to let you know. Thank you." then sits herself leaving Athaur to add anything else he wishes.

Tatienne keeps taking notes, looking to her side and asiding to Holden, "Are these usually this full of using twenty words when five could suffice?"

"Duke Telmar was not able to be here for today's meeting. But, I can tell you all that it is he who is heading up the Oathlands response to addressing what happened at Highhill. If you are brave enough to submit yourself to working under his command, then I encourage you to contact him directly to volunteer." Alis sounds quite somber at that. "I wanted to be sure to mention it, in case any of you were not aware yet."

Daisy, a mountain dog have been dismissed.

Shae has left the Main Floor.

Mal, a devious raccoon, Daegmund, an Oakhaven Shepherd leave, following Shae.

Kael is moving a hand to his beard, rubbing at the scruff of it in a vaguely agitated fashion. This is to assist in his waking up, it seems, for he did look ridiculously tired there for a moment. Listening to what Alis says, he nods his head. Thereafter he rises, a deep breath taken as he remarks, "Marquis Kael Keaton, Sword of Sanctum." An introduction for those that are not aware, it seems, with a slight emphasis on the latter. Of note: Oathbinder, Valardin's House Sword is settled there at his hip. "Recently during a meeting of Heads of Houses and their Voices, we discussed the matter of Highhill and Acorn Hill." Yes, he looks grave. A nod is cast toward the Rivenshari there, Arthur and Eshra both. "As Princess Alis said, Duke Arn Telmar is investigating this matter. As for Acorn Hill, Count Philippe Blanchard and Lord Rohran Keaton are looking to advance and put boots on the soul. From there, we will see what is left, but recent intelligence is... grim. We do not expect to find survivors, but we pray that we do. Whatever did this, it is still out there. For those that are not looking to raise a blade, if you are good at research or if you just have the time to assist in some things, please do see me. We need information on *what* could be done about it. We also need to know, bluntly, how to stop it. We can pass around some more details in one on one for those that assist." Kael? Not done. He's just moving to take a drink of water.

Fecundo looks curious as Alis mentions Duke Telmar's absence and his potential activities before looking sidelong to his wife and speaking with her.

Holden leans very slightly to one side, to murmur an answer to Tatienne.

Derovai has certainly been listening so far, though nothing has served to move him from his casual slouch. Kael's words do bring a slight change, as he lifts his chin a little, regarding Marquis Keaton more directly for a moment before sliding one gloved thumb lightly along his jawline. He looks thoughtful.

Eshra glances up to Kael as he stands, her dark gaze on him for a long moment. "Myself and Lord Maru Rivenshari are to accompany his Grace to Highhill." simply stated before falling silent again before leaning in to whisper to Athaur.

"To address Marquis Kael, Mother Mercy Sophie and Grandmaster Preston have kept the Legates informed of what occurred at Highhill. If the Scholars of Vellichor have not provided assistance to current research, please notify Archscholar Sina. She will verify whom is available or if any have historical knowledge of what's been discovered. While I cannot be more directly involved, I am attempting to remain informed and suggesting as I am able to other avenues." Ailith furrows her brow momentarily. "Might I also suggest, if additional researchers are needed, reaching out to the Bard's College or Whisper House? I know it seems highly unusual. But entertainers typically may have come across poems or songs briefly referring to the histories around Highhill."

Tescelina stands from her seat in the back but doesn't say anything, letting Kael finish his water and thought before she offers any insight.

Cahal comments. "I would be happy to help with research as well."

Ailith quickly adds, "Aside from speaking with your local seraphs. The shrines and churches, much like the ones here, may have ancient artwork or hymns dated back to that era."

Derovai lifts a few fingers, though he seems entirely unhurried about it. "...if I may, do you need researchers, or investigators? They are related, of course, but not quite the same thing."

Once he's enjoyed that water much the way as many would enjoy their liquor, Kael is taking a deep breath and continuing on, "There was word from one source that indicates that whatever did this, it might be amassing power - an army - and heading east. We do not know at this point if it is one group that struck both at Highhill and at Acorn Hill, or if it was two individual groups that struck in such a similar manner. One event activating the other." Kael's brows arch in unison, here, with his point. "But whatever occurred, what caused this, it still exists out there. I am asking for those that might be good at scouting to go within your lands and look for potential sources of... trouble." Kael grimaces with that word 'trouble' as though it pained him to be so vague, but nonetheless it is spoken thusly. "Do not engage, however, if you do find something. Report back. This will have to be a team effort, whatever it is. Of that, I have no doubts." Kael nods to Eshra, boldly, with no small amount of gratitude. He pivots when Ailith speaks and to the Legate of Concepts, he bows once more. "Understood," he says, simply, but full of humble nature. "Thank you." When he rises, he takes note of Cahal and nods to him with gratitude. To Derovai, he says plainly, "We require both. At this time we are entirely too ignorant though we have leads."

Holden is looking very thoughtful indeed at mention of volunteering to help with the Highhill situation. But his gaze slides back to Alis, and the knight's thoughts are clear on his face: to stay here and ensure the Valardin remain safe, but that his sword is of no use to those out there trying to restore peace to the Oathlands, or to go to Highhill and blame himself forever should anything happen to a member of House Valardin in his absence.

"In that case," Derovai says, "I would be happy to offer my services. I'm no scout, but I have been told that I have a very good eye for details." He sounds entirely solemn, but there is a faint, brief quirk around one corner of his mouth as he finishes.

Athaur stands slightly, pressing his hands to the table in front of him. "To build on Lord Kael's words. Prodigals as streaming into our lands in an attempt to escape something from the west. We aren't sure what that is yet, but I am working in concentrated effort with House Greenmarch to study what is happening." He returns to his seat.

Tatienne mutters something back to Holden.

Tatienne mutters, "... some kind ... sense, I suppose. Still seems foolish, could get so ... ... done ... ... ... ... the point."

Zara, who has largely been quietly taking notes, does look up as Ailith mentions the topic and the Whispers: "I've been informed that Whisper Selene may be looking in to related matters. It came up when I was talking to Legate Aureth about his ride," she says with a nod to Kael and Reigna. "I agree that it would be wise to check with her for whatever research is being done."

As the discussion on researchers and investigators continues, Cristoph raises his hand and adds, "Also, Lady Jael is working with Grandmaster Preston to secure Cassyl over the next few months and bring Lord Aramis into custody. If anyone would like to contact her for further details on that, I'm sure she'll be exceedingly thrilled to get some more messengers on the subject."

"The research I have done on the High Hill incident is nearly complete," Tescelina projects and somehow, her voice still holds that quiet tone, "When it is, I shall be glad to offer it toward any who wish to begin their own research." A pause. "To avoid overlap. Presently, the Telmar has put together a team to scout the area around the county. Whatever we discover will be passed along, of course. Wyrmguard asks that scouting parties do not venture close without making us aware, as our vassal's land may still be fraught with peril. That is all." She sits down.

Ailith addresses Athaur, "If it is insect related, because they are such a plague on crops and any would flee," she lifts her brow to suggest otherwise, but public forum, "you could speak with the Liberators by way of Legate Aureth or Disciple Aleksei. Certain encounters have given them unique perspectives. Their wisdom could help with the influx of prodigals seeking safety. If Count Athaur, your county seeks to welcome the prodigals and you'd like counsel on how to incorporate them more smoothly, Marquessa Samantha or Marquis Rymarr have accepted thousands into Old Oak. Both are quite willing to offer counsel on that subject. And this goes without saying," she smiles towards another, "as Princess Zara has acutely selected Whisper Selene, she, too, is quite wise to these matters. To clarify as to why, Whisper Selene held seat on the Council as former Radiant and served dutifully and radiantly. She may be able to link matters with what's occurred in other locations around the Compact." A soft smile follows.

Kael's tipping his head toward Derovai. "Thank you. Either Princess Alis Valardin, Duke Cristoph Laurent, or myself can brief you with what we have thus far." Now, though he is looking to Derovai for that matter, he turns to look toward the others that have offered their assistance, touching upon them in brief with another nod of his head. Now, Athaur has him focusing on him, nodding to the man, expression growing all the more thoughtful with that bit of information. A nod to Zara and Cristoph both, until he is focusing on Tescelina. "It would be my suggestion that your scouting parties, should they come across something, do not engage."

Tescelina nods at Kael, "Yes, Marquis. It would be against the spirit of scouting, I think, to do so."

Reigna has been quiet most of this time, though as the topic shifts to High Hill and Acorn Hill, Reigna looks towards Zara and nods to the Valardin Princess. She pays attention to Tescelina's words and glances towards her husband, before she gets to her feet. "Hopes are that Marquis Beaucage relents and cooperates with the Faith. It is important to keep in mind that if he does not, we of the Oathlands must work together to minimize potential chaos should the worst happen and we lose a March. I have some proposals that I would like to offer to the economics-minded among you, particularly those who keep track of your House's imports and exports. We should have a plan in place in order to be prepared."

Caius leans over from his place near Zara to inspect her notes, hazel eyes lifting from the words written on the pages to those speaking. As Tescelina speaks to the matters with High Hill and Kael responds, "Is this separate from the armed force Duke Telmar will be moving to the area? My understanding was that we would be moving in force to a purpose."

Derovai nods to Kael in turn, and falls silent again, though he looks to each speaker that follows with the same casual interest he displayed before.

Athaur nods his head to Kael. "They have already been instructed to avoid engagement. I do not want them fighting something they are unprepared for." He turns his head to Ailith next, offering a small smile. "We appreciate the offer of assistance. But we are well acquainted with taking in Fresh Prodigals, being fresh Prodigals ourselves. I do not think it is something so simple as insect. They are fleeing in terror and most do not want to stay in our lands but moving further."

"Thank you for your suggestions, Legate Ailith. I do believe that the Rivenshari have such things in hand, as Count Athaur as indicated. I'm interested in hearing Marquessa Reigna's statement, if she's making one or oh, is this a smaller meeting for later?" Cristoph asks, lifting his chin and looking in the Keaton's direction.

To Caius, Kael is responding: "I am speaking concerning small scouting parties. As Lady Wyrmguard," he nods to Tescelina, "-- pointed out, it would be against the spirit. If Duke Arn Telmar is moving forces with purpose and seeks to engage, I would suspect that he is prepared." He nods to Athaur, dark brows knitting before he exhales a heavy sort of breath when he remarks that the prodigals are continuing to flee. "Let us know if you require more assistance in the issue of finding out what it is." Turning to Reigna, Kael nods to her -- and then there is a glance to Cristoph when he indicates that they should speak. Kael is inclining his head to his wife, for evidently this is her specialty.

Elena, a solemn knight attache have been dismissed.

Alette, a discreet lady's maid have been dismissed.

Isabel, a calm diplomatic aide have been dismissed.

Eshra looks up, brow arching at the comments of Arn's army. "Duke Arn is taking a force with him to Highhill. Not by any means the whole of any army. As he explained it to me. They are his vassals, he is going to go see. And he is Duke, so he gets to take an army if he wishes to." Her tone droll by the end and no comment on how she had replied to him.

Isidora kisses Fecundo's cheek softly before she stands and leaves quietly.

Skiftfeather - an Elegant Snowy Owl, Morigan Bradshaw - Nurse and Doctor in Training, Fayre Wyrmfang - Excitable Champion, 1 Valardin Knights, Jaibrian - Oathlands Vanner leave, following Isidora.

Fecundo nods to his wife, rising to see her go, though it seems he plans to stay longer.

There is a nod in Kael's direction as Caius responds to the Sword, "There are many things in motion here, I was only looking for clarification versus what I've heard so far." At Eshra's words, the Valardin shakes his head, "I do not know what Duke Telmar has shared with you, Lady, only what I've seen in preparation. It is not a small scouting party that will accompany him, though as it is a direct vassal of Wyrmguard rather than Telmar, keeping them informed of movements seems appropriate."

Reigna nods to Cristoph and looks to Kael, "I can speak of it whenever you feel it appropriate, Duke Laurent. I brought it up here, to make the the offer to the other Houses. That way we can collaborate and work together to better address the issue."

Alis has been peripherally paying attention of course, trusting her amazing adjutant to take notes and shove important messages in her face as needed. Enough attention though, that she catches wind of Eshra's droll tone and tries to hide a smirk of bemusement. Arn gonna Arn.

Eddard is overheard praising Miranda.

Kael nods to Caius, remarking, "I can only offer forth recommendations and ask for assistance for matters that impact us all. Duke Arn Telmar has always been quite formidable and clear of vision." Toward Reigna, Kael is nodding his head and after a moment of deliberation - a glance to Cristoph - he remarks to the area as a whole, "If there are those that would seek to assist in the economics of matters, should the worst occur, please do speak with Marquessa Reigna Keaton." It is at this point that he is glancing toward Cristoph and Alis, brows lifted in silent note of query.

Ailith smiles, gleeful, after soft words exchange with Princess Alis. The Legate notices the silent communication between the Valardin Voices and Sword, then proceeds to pull a slip of parchment from an area around her sleeve to include a piece of charcoal. She scribbles a few bulletpoints.

"Yes, thank you for everyone who came tonight to ask questions or to offer their input. We wish everyone the best of luck over the next few weeks and months with their work. If you need anything, please feel free to reach out. The people who deliver the messengers always seems to know exactly where to find us, at least in my experience," Cristoph offers a broad smile for that and then folds his hand top of the table and waits to see if there's anything else.

Tatienne keeps taking notes, nodding aside to Holden, though her attention is spiked when Kael says the magic word. 'Economics'

Eshra stands as the room is dismissed, one hand rubbing at the bandaged palm of the other. Instead of turning to go her gaze flickers to the front of the room to Kael, Cristoph and Alis. "I realize everyone is very busy but if possible to get just a moment of time? There is something I would like to discuss with yourselves and my brother."

Alis inclines her head gratefully to Ailith, her attention turning then towards Eshra and beckoning her closer to the front of the room then so they can discuss the matter she'd like to bring up with them.

Holden finally speaks up, now that it seems the nobility is done talking. "Duke Laurent," he offers respectfully towards Cristoph. "Or any others who are familiar with the conflict. I have heard troubling rumors, and while I would once have been loathe to believe them, the things I have seen since the Tragedy have forced me to expand the boundaries of what I find possible. So I have to ask: are we likely to meet normal human soldiers in the field, or something less natural? And if the latter, do we know how to fight them?" But then Eshra speaks and the knight subsides and steps back once more, deferring to the peerage.

Tescelina slips out of the room, quiet as a mouse.

"They do," agrees Kael, somewhat ruefully, toward Cristoph with that statement. "I believe that is a good thing." He tries for a wan smile, he really does, but it falls a little short. When Eshra makes her request, Kael is bowing in the wake of Alis' gesture. Holden's question has Kael fidgeting a bit, but he remains silent.

Derovai doesn't seem to be in any sort of hurry to depart. He takes long, slow sips from his tea, pausing between each as if to savor it, and when he's run out of tea, he sets the cup down carefully and contemplates it for a little while. Eventually his gaze flicks toward those that are still talking, and they linger briefly on Holden at his question before looking to the others that might answer.

And the meeting is done, and Tatienne rises, pages of notes written and safely stored, she begins to head to the exit, though she's in no particular hurry.

"When you're in the field, Sir Holden, I would suggest keeping an open mind. Unfortunately I too have seen things over the last several years that I wouldn't have otherwise expected to see. The best suggestion that I can make is to keep your blade and your mind sharp. Because you never know exactly what sort of enemy you're going face." Cristoph makes a vague wave in Kael's direction, "Though I believe the call for researchers and investigators is being done in an effort to suss out what percentage of our encounters will be normal dangers and will be... not."

Fecundo rises after a short time and moves to follow Isidora'spath, perhaps back to their suite.

Reigna looks around the room to see if there are any interested in assisting with the financial stability of the Oathlands and her expression is a little disappointed. She looks over to Eshra, though Holden's question draws her attention briefly.

Ailith remarks kindly to Holden, "By having a little Faith. Piety and trust, not only in the Gods, but your lieges and all those present. There are many avenues to explore, each with their own risk, but the care and diligence by them," she glances over her shoulder to Alis, Cristoph, and Kael, "and their allies will ensure progress is made. Remain steadfast and have heart, even with the unknown and what seems a near impossible foe. There's tales of Oathlanders and knights who have long held against the night. You'll find a way." She bows, then does the same to the great leaders. "I thank each of you for your permission to be here. And thank you for indulging a former Oathlander to witness such familiar strength and wisdom once more. In a short time, I shall be announcing my plans for the lands the Faith acquired -- it may serve as a defense and relief in these difficult times."

Eshra still standing moves forward at the gesture, draging Athaur along as she does, in a manner less like the Count's Voice and more like his little sister. Reaching the front, pauses with a nod to the three nobles. "Thank you, I will try not to take to much of your time but there is something rather sensitive that I would like to ask you about." pauses, looking back towards Holden as the Knight's question is addressed.

Tatienne sees Reigna wander like that and pauses to head over there. "M'lady." She greets. "I'm Tatienne Lachance, a humble merchant; what exactly is it that you need?" One of her words is a lie.

Holden nods in answer to the 'you'll do what you have to when the time comes' replies, evidently accepting them as answer enough. As a soldier, he clearly prefers to be prepared, but as an Oathlands knight it's just as obvious that not knowing what he's walking into will certainly never stop him from walking into it regardless if it is what honor, duty, or simply a sense of right demand.

Athaur lets out a long suffering sigh, as only an older brother can. He allows Eshra to drag him up towards the front, but once there he does stand alert to listen to what she has to say.

As the meeting at large comes to an end, Caius rises, a small bow of respect directed toward the front of the Vow and then to Alis in particular, a touch of fingers to heart and then he moves to take his leave.

Elena, a solemn knight attache have been dismissed.

Alette, a discreet lady's maid have been dismissed.

Isabel, a calm diplomatic aide have been dismissed.

Kedehern has left the Main Floor.

Alix, a young Oakhaven Shepherd leaves, following Kedehern.