3 Thrax Guards, 1 Thrax Elite Guards, Gula, a fat gila monster wearing a tricorn arrive, following Fatima.

Lou has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Lou is already in the Great Gray Hall, her expression deeply troubled. She's sitting at the map table, with some writing implements set close by so that she can take notes, as she waits for the meeting to start.

The Great Gray Hall is currently dominated by a series of long tables which have been brought out and pushed together for the purposes of the council. At the head of them, at the end closest to the stairs that lead down into the hall, is Princess Liara Grayson. Various military officers and aides in Grayson livery are much in evidence too, whether to observe, take notes, or relay information.

As the appointed time for the meeting comes, Liara rises to her feet to address the hall, her voice crisp and clear, "Thank you all for attending. Some weeks ago, I received information, courtesy of the Prince of Farhaven, that the Traitor had occupied Harrow Hall. Recent events have confirmed beyond any doubt that the Traitor is present. It was my intention at that earlier time to proceed to the hall with the host of the Crownlands and, in the likely event that it is necessary, assault it."

She proceeds to provide some brief context, "Harrow Hall is a shardhaven. It is a place in which the Abyss and this world in which we live overlap. It is full of evil. To step near the place is, as we currently understand it, to invite madness. It is probable that the Traitor has gathered there, or found there, all that he requires to bring the last steps of his plan to fruition. If we do not stop the Traitor, then the entire world faces a bleak fate."

Some further thoughts are offered, "The growth around Harrow Hall suggests to me that the Traitor expects us to employ force of arms. I would take heart from this in a certain way, in that if he did not perceive that he has some vulnerability, even within the hall, he would not take such measures. Therefore, it remains my intention to bring the host of the Crownlands. I invite everyone to bring every warrior they can muster to do the same. However, besides that exhortation, my hope from this meeting is to learn information."

With that, she glances across the hall. "Those with germane extra information on the hall to share might indicate themselves, and we shall hear it, so that we are all as informed as we can be."

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice arrives, following Khanne.

Edris walks in with Alis' hand tucked into the crook of his arm in quiet escort. The tall Valardin prince-consort's expression is solemn, but then again that's hardly unusual in the young man. He does bow his head so that he can confer quietly with her and listen in return, as his dark eyes sweep the room as if looking for a place where they will settle, and then guides them thataway, waiting for her to take her seat before he takes his, and then listens quietly.

Patrizio has arrived well before the designated hour, as if to both break that common-held thought that Pravusi are most often late, and to make certain that he is ready when Liara rises to address the chamber. Once more, that familiar folio of his is in hand, opened to a fresh leaf, notes being taken already. Though when there's a call from the get-go for information, the archduke of Setara is holding his tongue for a moment, the keen turn of those jade eyes of his about the room as if to see from what direction the first word comes.

Thea has come early, silently. Finding her place, she sits. Quiet. Intent on listening for now.

Arriving with a sketch book in her hand, princess Denica wears a serious expression that doesn't quite match her cheerful spring gown. A discrete wiggle of fingers allows her to greet a number of people, but she remains silent, looking for a place to sit. With an easy sweep of her free hand, she manages her skirt and settles in. Curious to hear more, the young woman places her book in her lap, and turns her attention on those that intend to speak.

Khanne steps in quietly, standing near the back so as not to interrupt the meeting. For now, she watches and listens closely.

Medeia arrives and bows her head to the Graysons that are hosting the event. However, she's not really a war strategist. She remains silent and settles herself at one of the side tables, doing her best to be out of the way and - perhaps - out of mind. The call for information makes her shift in her seat. With a look around the hall, the lady makes eye contact with a few people, but then she looks down at the table top with lips pressed thin.

Jan arrives with Pasquale and his entourage. Granite colored gaze sweeps across the room and her eyebrows slowly drift upwards towards her hairline as she studies Pasquale's reaction to this massive crowd.

Lady Tesha Telmar is out of silks and dressed in her armor today. It seems to be the thing to catch her in these days. The one-eyed woman has her dragon's eye in today, the shining piece of dragonweep situated into her left eye socket to replace the missing one. She gives a dip of her head to those that enter and to the hosts, but she makes no moves to talk to anyone at the moment. Instead listening to what exactly is going on.

Medeia has joined the a round table with inset amber and glass badgers.

Patrizio has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Representing the Lyceum for the meeting, Isolde enters the room quietly and takes a seat on one of the chairs close to the entrance, not wanting to disturb much.

Pasquale's eyes flicker to Darren when Liara mentions him before moving back to the table and the details. His expression deeply thoughtful. "Do you think it will be possible to use the armies to hold him and his forces in place whilst a number of smaller teams break in? A distraction to some extent, albeit one that will serve a very real purpose."

Tesha has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Fatima is here, and has already settled into a place where she can listen and observe. The half-Eurusi Thrax Princess glances around quietly as people arrive, but her attention focuses fully on Liara as she begins to speak in earnest about the Traitor and his location. There is a slight nod of her head, thoughtful, as she hears it confrimed the location is Harrow Hall. For now, she remains silent, listening and attentive.

Titus follows after Patrizio, taking a stance near the archduke and looks to Lou.

Mattheu slips in alongside of Ann to settle to side of the tables after a soft jingling nod to the Graysons and to see that Ann has a seat where he then crosses his arms before him to listen.

Lou stands from the table a moment to give what information she has. "Harrow Hall isn't just a shardhaven. It's the very first shardhaven of the world." She lets that significance settle with people a moment. "Dame Felicia and I used to have conversations about what it might take to cleanse the place, but she was never able to fulfill that goal before her passing." There's a slight pause and a frown as she adds. "It is also surrounded by miles of thick thorns that no one seems to be able to get through and is also guarded by at least two gartantuan atop the Hall itself."

Adalyn moves into the hall with her hand in the crook of Vitalis arm, speaking softly. She is in leathers today, he sword on her hip. Looking around at all those who have gathered she moves them to a table to sit down and listen.

Ann is as quiet as she can be as she comes in with Matti. Settling in her seat once it is found she pulls out a note pad and writing utensil. Always good to take notes in a meeting such as this. A slight nod to those she knows to show she sees them. Her own bells ring softly trying to not call attention in this serious matter.

Caspian is standing in the corner, notebook in hand and scribbling notes as people spoke. "are the thorns a new occurrence? and has the been and scouting find in the past?"

Arriving with a few minutes to spare, Aconite settles in a spot with Alejandro, ensuring they have a clear view and a chance to listen attentively to the ongoing proceedings. Eyes moving from Liara to Lou and then around the room with a serious expression.

Preston has arrived early to the Hall and waited with his small gaggle of Templars, keeping to the corner and murmering. As events start, Preston at least moves to the tables to take a seat and to listen to what is said. His eyebrow lifts a little at the mention "The Traitor Prince is always vulnerable, Your Grace. The question is whether we have had weapon sharp enough to exploit that. As it stands, you should probably know that he has been gathering weapons of The Will - blades that will drain you of your life's warmth at best, and at worst turn you to their twisted use. He has, however, lost one. And lost his chief mage of late." Preston looks up "But he should not be underestimated at any point. He took a whole kingdom into the Abyss for his need for power. Even then, he sent his own father to die at Alarice's hand, and held back reinforcements so his father would be killed."

Preston pauses for just a moment before he adds "But. The Templars, and the Faith, will always stand against the Abyss. And we have the ability to move into Abyssal places with some margin of protection. What Paladins the Gods provide, we will commit."

Darren is an understated presence as he enters alone, graceful, but without fanfare. He gives Pasquale a smile and a vague shrug when the man looks his way.

Sen'azala arrives with no guards or attendants, but there's a sort of presence about her all the same, something vaguely uncomfortable, vaguely larger about her as she sweeps into the large room, distinct from how she might have seemed prior to the Blood Moon. Not helping the impression is her face: she's painted it with both black and white lines, tracing over her original scars, with an extra band of black over her eyes, as if to make the golden pupils stand out. Her movement toward the table can best be described as a slow prowl, and she doesn't actually take a seat just yet. "I've been to Harrow Hall," she says. "Just the past few days, but more relevantly years ago, back when Felicia was looking into cleansing it for the first time."

"I'm going to offer a suggestion that I am certain that no one would be surprised to hear from me, but I would wonder if fire - of any sort - would be useful here to help either clear some of the thorn-field or to at least serve as distraction." This comes from Patrizio without sense of it being a joke, or a bad suggestion, even if he's glancing to Lou when he gives voice to it for a moment. A glance back to Titus with a respectful nod for the moment, before he continues. "In all seriousness, though, and because I know not the answer to this question - have we not some of the vegicides we've used against some of the plant horrors in the past to also bring to the fore?"

"Forgive my lack of information on the nature of the... thorny hedge surrounding the Hall.." Alis begins, once she and Edris have settled. "But are these mundane thorns? Or are they extra special, imbued with the abyss, type of thorns."

Thea has joined the a round table with inset amber and glass badgers.

Preston has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Caspian beams at patrizio with a look that clearly started he was thinking the same thing but it's first someone more sane than him suggested it.

Jaxon, Champion of the Reflection have been dismissed.

Bruiser, a merle teacup chihuahua wearing a diamond collar have been dismissed.

Slaine, a wallflower have been dismissed.

Rex, a large blue cane corso mastiff have been dismissed.

Liara says to Pasquale, "I do not know, my lord. I simply do not have the information to make any such choice, yet."

Her attention moves onwards, and she gives a small incline of her head to the information conveyed by Lou.

"Indeed, Grandmaster," she says to Preston. "I have been told in the past that there is a possibility that Harren Harrow is not in fact dead, but imprisoned within the hall." She smiles briefly after this, "The presence of the Templars will surely be welcome."

Particulars of the thorns start to arise, and at the question about the nature of the thorns, Liara inquires of Sen'azala, "Are they any more magical in nature than those plants ordinarily used by the Traitor and his mages?"

Talk of the thorn-wall has Medeia looking up again. "We do have the knowledge of previous mixtures that helped to abate Helena's thorns. These are likely different, depending on when they were grown." She shifts uncomfortably. "There is a chance that the alchemists of the Compact could produce something /greater/ that Arvani Fire... Combine it with those poisons that worked against the thornweave." She glances at Patrizio, then, shrugging slightly before looking to Liara. "I can lend my notes... But our last attempt at the poison against the thornweave failed due to... Reasons." Auda-shaped reasons.

Adalyn has joined the a round table with inset amber and glass badgers.

When Patrizio makes his suggestion of fire to be used to clear the thorns away from Harrow Hall, for once Lou makes no objection of that particular method of handling a situation. It's not her fair city, after all, he's suggesting be burnt this time when handling matters. "I think that several people have tried several different things in the past with varying not great results. I cannot recall if fire was one of them, however," she tells Patrizio.

Glancing over at Patrizio suggests fire, Denica is not all surprised, but she does no along, seeming to side with this suggestion more often then not.

Mattheu raises his hand a little before he speaks, "Uh. Where is Harrow Hall?"

Thea glances at Medeia, before speaking,"I made a elixir that helped kill the vines when they grew around around the Shrine of Lagoma. Perhaps I can tweak it somehow,"she offers.

"No way to know without testing it in some way," Sen says, in answer. She pulls out a chair, starts to lean against it, and then actually schools herself into sitting down. "Or looking at it in a different way. If someone's interested in going blind and having the worst nightmares imaginable at best, I suppose they could try using magesight on Harrow Hall, but I do *not* recommend that."

Sen'azala has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Lou looks to Liara and clears her throat, adding. "Harren Harrow most definitely died. So that is not something we need to be worried about in the Hall itself."

Sen'azala tacks on to what Lou says, "But the Hall itself is alive. I can't imagine things have improved since, but when Felicia and I went to the walls, it talked, invited people in." Beat. "It told me to stay the hell out." There's dark humor in her voice, brief.

Pasquale nods when Liara says she simply doesn't know and goes back to listening.

Reaching up to run fingers up the back of her head, seeming not entirely comfortable with the thought of bringing attention to herself, Khanne clears her throat and says, "if it is a shardhaven, as you say, it is possible to free his soul... Harren Harrow's, that is. If he is trapped there."

Liara answers Mattheu, "In the northern Crownlands, along the river quite some distance past the Twainfort."

She nods briefly to Lou. "That is a relief. For a time, with the Traitor's creatures operating in the vicinity of the hall in years past, there had been speculation that it related to Harren."

Then she goes back to the matter of the thorns. "It would be best if we find a way in which to destroy the thorns in a permanent way. The concoctions which have worked against such plants in the past are surely worth investigating. Those of you with such knowledge might be so good as to confer afterwards and devise a plan. Do not spare any expense; House Grayson can cover it."

Preston leans over to look down at the map table a moment, gesturing towards Arx "If it gets to unsubtle methods of trying to clear the hedge, Dame Ida and the Faith Militant's Artillery Train is in Arx and can join the force. Dame Ida is beloved by the Gods, and has in the past...ah well. Been able to imbue siege weaponry with power. It blew up a redoubt in the Oathlands with a single ballista shot. But...." Preston pauses as he looks up and down the table "There is no doubt that he knows we are coming - for that is what he wants. And that in slaughter, he will find power too. If this is to be the battle, let it be the final one with him - for years he has dogged us. So the first step is clear. We invest Harrow Hall, no person in, no person out. With the forces we have, we can build a palisade surrounding it to enforce this investment." Preston looks across at Sen'azala and hrms "We once went to a similar place, a Fortress of Chains. A shardhaven of Legion."

Tesha is taking in information as people voice it. Her stormy eye trying to keep up with who is speaking and what they are saying. Khanne's voice causes her to turn and there is a bit of a nod to that, but no words. She then turns to look at the others where she sits.

Lou shakes her had at Khanne. "Harren Harrow is not trapped within the Harrow Hall." This is said with complete certainty.

Edris nods to Thea's words, but doesn't speak. There is however, the barest hint of a half-smile at Sen's words about magesight. But then he falls back to listening, looking at speaker in turn.

When Sen'azala arrives, a quartet of people who had been waiting in one of the corners stands forth and comes to join the Prima. Two are clad in blue and green, with bare arms revealing blue tattoos in animal designs and further marks upon their faces; the stand, silent, and listen.

The other two who come to join Sen'azala are a woman in plate armour with short-cropped hair and a scar in the shape of Lagoma's flame between her brows, and her squire. Both of them are wearing tabards with an embroidered flame. The quartet come up to stand at Sen'azala's shoulders. "Those thorns are not natural," says Sir Catherine, "And we do not advise anyone to get too near."

Jan listens attentively. She hasn't spoken up yet at all which is unusual for anyone who knows Jan but her gaze is alert and her attention singularly focused on each person as they speak.

Alis nods curtly, looking thoughtful as the question of the type of thorns has a nebulous answer at best. "If there is a Paladin of Lagoma, who can wield her purifying flame, perhaps that could be wielded against any type of the thorns." she suggests, not knowing whether there is or not. But, it's worth speaking anyway. As soon as Sir Catherine speaks, of course, she looks over smiles.

Sen'azala sticks out a booted foot and scoots a chair out for Cefyn and Catherine - one after the next - before she leans forward and murmurs something in Lou's direction.

Patrizio nods soberly where he's been taking some notes, at quiet conversation with Titus. There's a brief arch of brow to the Warmonger, and a murmur to him, before he offers up, "The palisade would be of a good idea to both hedge them in and keep others away. A cordon to let us use ballistae to launch attacks inwards and therein, we can test, yes?"

Sen'azala mutters, "Do ... ... anything ... draw with? A big sheet of ... would be ... ... my drawing skills ..."

Liara offers a small incline of her head to Preston, and agreement with Patrizio, "Vast an undertaking though such works would be, I believe they would be entirely worthwhile, in enabling us to control passage of any more of the Traitor's creatures into or out of the hall, as much as we can. It is a straightforward task, compared with the rest of what we are considering. It is a good starting point."

Khanne simply nods to Lou and steps back again, listening.

Leaning back in her chair, Denica listens to the information being shared, some of it familiar and other bits new to her. The question that Khanne poses is one that causes her brows to lift curiously. Remaining silent, she just observes at this point, making a few marks in her sketch book, clearly thinking about something, though not to the point she can verbalize them.

Mattheu nods to Liara as the location is helped to be found upon the maps. "As it's upon the rivers if you're in need of a fleet that can navigate those spaces then let the Rivenshari know. I'm my sister's proxy for the floatila."

Liara then gives a small nod to Catherine, a simple, "Thank you," and then she looks to Alis. "The thought had not occurred. It is surely worth further investigation, your grace."

Ann is steadily taking notes and being attentive to those that are speaking and ideas they have come up with thus far in offering solutions. Nodding a bit as if she agrees with some of the speakers. Making a point to underline a couple of things that she has put down. Glancing to Matti when he speaks up. She likely was underlining the location when Liara had given the information.

Vitalis is present, on Adalyn's arm, silent and listening to the proceedings, mulling over the words of each attendant with a thoughtful frown.

Darren clears his throat and speaks up: "Palisade aside, I would like to put forth the question of whether this is a matter for soldiers and armies, at all. I'm not opposed to sending my people in to fight against long odds, but I must weigh the value of their lives, as well. I won't send them into a situation where the only thing they can hope to accomplish is to die."

Titus offers to the group, tilting his head to Sen'Azala in respect, "Harrow Hall is alive as the prima says, similar to other places of deep meaning. Perhaps better thought of as a grove. Important to the world for what has happened, what is happening, what will happen. Corrupted now from the seeds that were planted a very very long time ago, but part of why it is special. Perhaps something to think about in the strategies dealing with it."

"I believe we need the pallisade." Pasquale says to Darren. "So that his forces can't disperse into the country and harass the population once the Traitor is dealt with. I cant imagine that sending troops to attack the walls en-masse would go well for us though."

Jan finally speaks up "What is the plan to learn more? It's a literal physical barrier so scouting isn't feasible I take? Has anyone ever successfully purged a shardhaven before? Do we know if it is possible-defining possible as something we can verify humans have achieved before. If not is erecting a barrier of our own around it an option? Something which while not eliminating it would diminish it's strategic value?"

Again, Khanne seems uncomfortable speaking, but looks to Darren specifically when she says, "I have recent experience with a shardhaven... one that in retrospection was not as 'alive' as what is being described here. Battle alone, in my opinion, cannot be successful. I think a balanced force of arms and... other... is necessary."

Liara replies to Darren, "If we do not act with all that we can, your grace, and the Traitor accomplishes his goal, then the fate of those soldiers whose lives might be saved by not being committed will be the same awful fate as the rest of the world. It is clearly not an ideal option, but a bad option is better than not acting."

Fatima listens carefully to everything that is said, her eyes narrowing just a little. "Would someone be so good as to point out the place on a map?" she suggests. "I'd like to have some visual context. That aside, I can offer what assistance I may from the Isles Canines, whether it be ferrying supplies upriver or providing troops." She glances to Darren, and nods in agreement. "Though, like His Grace, I wonder if sending troops of any sort in a direct assault is wise."

Vitalis purses his lips and sends off a messenger.

Liara then lifts a hand a little. "Might we take a brief pause to ensure that the first matter raised, that of alchemical substances, is sufficiently covered? I believe an investigation in that regard is one on which all would agree."

Preston reaches across the map table to tap the Oathlands "I cannot fully release all my forces to this, I will need to keep some Templars who are loyal to stop the Oathlands and Lyceum faithful from going to war. But. A crusade to end this is worthwhile. Manpower will not be a problem. But we still then need a way of dealing with the Horned God. His personal hatred of me may well draw him out, and I am content to die if needs must, but I would rather be honourable and alive, and my enemy dead, if possible." Preston's eyes lift to Darren and his comment "If he escapes, defeated, your grace? If he has the Will and can unite enough parts, he can come to Arx and pierce the Thinnest Point and really end it all. We have to invest that place. We have to end this."

Sen'azala nods, and takes a large sheet of paper from Lou as it's passed across to her. She then finds - err, steals, possibly - the nearest acceptable writing implement. "Right." She spreads the page out. "Before we talk about breaking in, let's talk about what we're breaking into." Her nose wrinkles as Titus compares Harrow Hall to a grove, but she keeps on. "Harrow Hall, as of a damn decade ago." She begins sketching with...well, it's acceptable in that it's clear what she's outlining. "We scouted the perimeter. It's enormous. Roughly this shape. Two actual stone walls were still standing, with vines that had grown up to make their own walls, here and here. Black and moving, which was just great. Entrance was here, or at least it looked that way."

There's some concern as people talk about no man in and no man out from the thorny hedges, "The hedges are also miles wide around Harren Hall. Is there enough manpower or siege weapons to cover all of the surrounding area?" she asks, not seeming like she can entirely comprehend that many people being able to surround the Hall itself. She carefully passes some paper over to Sen'azala, looking like the kind that might be used for map making.

Caspian looks up to liara and pipes up "I will volunteer to take some arvani fire and test it against the outskirts of we need some empirical testing."

Adalyn leans in to whisper something to Vitalis as she listens to everyone speak.

For a moment, there is a look to Patrizio's features as if he's about to say something, or more, perhaps in answer to Darren's statement, but Liara's words get his attention, and he closes his mouth, before there's a turn of his gaze towards Medeia, from whom there'd been mention of the things Liara is bringing back up. "I'm not /set/ on fire," he says as if to lend weight to the alchemical side. "If we have better solution that is less risky to us, I'm game for putting my weight behind that instead. This is not a harbour in my own domain we're speaking of."

"Troops help keep the dangers at bay while those with other means of battling foes are doing what they need to do," Khanne says a little less timidly this time. "I suppose I shouldn't be so vague anymore... but, for those who are able to call upon more 'magical' talents, having a sword watching our back allows the time we need to focus on the matter at hand."

Ever equipped with drawing utensils, Denica sends her assistant towards Sen'azala to offer her some sketching charcoal, if she wants it. Going silent, Denica seems rather glad someone is drawing a diagram and she watches this as she takes everything in, it's a lot to process but she listens actively and looks curiously.

Darren bows his head in acknowledgement of Liara's request to focus on the alchemical aspects first, but he doesn't look as though he feels his question has been answered; he's just deferring it, at her request.

Alis just rubs her face with a hand at the mention of the Oathlands and Lyceum faithful wanting to war with each other, and holds back a sigh before addressing the other topics at hand. "If we need both soldier and other, from where are we getting the other? Are there even enough of those with 'other' ability to be mustered? And what are our options for finding more of them? Or do we have none, and we must simply entreat people to be open to exploring whatever unusually lucky talents they might have."

"Shardhavens have been cleansed before," says Catherine, taking the seat at Sen'azala's side. "But it is a difficult thing requiring great power and the blessings of the gods, and everyone who attempts it comes away scarred - if they come away at all. Most fail. I cannot imagine that cleansing the first shardhaven of all will be successful without the Seraphs and the Aspects of the gods themselves on the field."

Cefyn takes the other seat next to Sen'azala, but for the moment she holds her peace.

Medeia stands, then, to ensure she's heard from her side table. "High Lady Liara, I would recommend that Countess Thea and I meet with some of the other well-known alchemists here in the city and conferred on the remaining notes from all previous attempts against Thornweave - in the Lyceum, Lagoma's shrine, and others. The formula has had to change, over time, and we will need to see where things left off with the most recent failed attempt." Then, she shrugs gently. "If we can create something that burns thornweave /specifically/... Combining the cleansing power of fire and..." Her thoguhts trail off. She hesitates another moment. "I may need to know, at some point, who will be joining the armies to head to Harrow Hall. I may need to speak with someone who believes they will come face-to-face with the Traitor. If anyone... Would keep that in mind."

Catherine has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Cefyn has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Jan says, "Which solution is most likely to impact strategy of the Betrayer or at least render this thing less of a priority-as in could it be contained and addressed another time more effectively than trying to deal with it now?"

Sen'azala makes a noise in the back of her throat at Catherine's words that sounds like vague agreement. "Cleansing it would take months. Years, even, if it were possible at all. It's part of why Felicia wanted to scout it in the first place." She taps the charcoal that she took from Denica's assistant - no theft, huzzah! - against her chin, then glances toward Medeia. "...Well, that would be me. Me and at least a few others I could name, but who it might be a bad idea to name here."

Liara gives a small nod to each of Caspian and Patrizio, then turns her attention across to Thea and Medeia, likely among others who have mentioned alchemy. "We can in truth only speculate until such time as an experiment is conducted, but it would be wholly worthwhile, in advance of any army arriving to the hall, to look at all our options."

She adds thereafter, "I was face-to-face with the Traitor in Bastion, as were others. He is not a pretty sight."

"I believe Harrow Hall is the birthplace of one of the Heralds of the Archdemon of Carnage." Pasquale notes. "The place was touched by the archdemon himself at some level. Cleansing it would be a difficult task even if it wasn't occupied by a hostile army. I too believe that cleansing it will have to wait until after the Traitor has been dealt with."

Medeia nods across at Sen'azala. There's a very silently communicated 'let's talk later' to the woman.

Fatima sits forward, watching intently as Sen'azala starts drawing out the outlines of the location and detailing the walls and the entrance. The Thrax Princess gives a nod of the head. "Thank you," she murmurs. She glances at Preston briefly as he speaks of the Will, and her brow frinkles a little bit with worry. She doesn't add to the general confusion by asking questions just now, however, focusing her attention back on Sen'azala and her drawing. She tilts her head then, glancing at Sir Catherine as she explains what will be needed to cleanse the Shardhaven. After a moment, she sits back again, lifting her fingers to tap her chin thoughtfully.

Liara then adds, this to Medeia and Thea specifically, "If you would take in charge organisation of such a project, then we might consider the portion of the meeting relevant to alchemy disposed of."

At mention of coming face to face with the Traitor, Vitalis pales, sweat breaking out on his forehead. He closes his eyes and breathes carefully.

"For those of the Saffron Chain..." Preston begins, looking down the table to Patrizio "When the Trees came alive and sought to entwine us at Pieros, do we know the origin of that? Was that similar to the thorn magic?" The comment about Seraphs gets a slight nose wrinkle from the Carnifex "Mm. It is true. Though, I fear the one I am most familiar with is Skald's - and have not spoken to her in some time. We have, that I am aware of, two who the Seraphs or the Gods have called Paladin. And only one of those would I put much faith in, the other has only had sporadic success with invoking the divine."

Jan's eyebrows lift and her cheeks billow out with a sigh so heavy she can't expel it all at once "Petrichor's pecker, that's not what I what I wanted to hear." she reports to Pasquale.

Adalyn Hand rests on Vitalis arm, she frowns as she stays next to Vitalis.

Patrizio turns to look back down the table to Preston. "I don't know," he says most honestly, most directly. "We've been dealing, even since before the Skal'dajan War, with such things within the Saffron, things that are Abyssally touched at the very least." The jade eyes are turned to Titus, as if looking for further input from one who's lived within the Saffron most his life.

Liara then takes a moment to collect her thoughts before proceeding. "For a second, and straightforward, matter, Sir Preston's suggestion that we raise defensive works all around the hall is sound." She looks towards the map presented by Sen'azala, and says to Lou afterwards, "We have the numbers needed to cover those miles." She asks, "Does anybody have a counterpoint to the idea of defences? It is a task that can likely be achieved by soldiers and labourers from the Crownlands in advance of the arrival of others."

Edris almost moves to speak, at the mention of the trees. Though he seems to think better of it at present moment, and does not. But his gaze does linger on Patrizio and Preston both, for a moment, as if making a mental note.

Lou grimaces a bit when Sen'azala says she's going to face the Traitor face to face. It's not a notion she likes. She otherwise keeps quiet as she listens to ideas and such. She poses this question to Medeia. "Isn't the forumla created from some of those the blood eating vines? They're very hard to get and very hard to find. Has a new stock of them been found recently to be culled for additional weedkiller?" This is important, since everything might hedge on that to make more.

"Perhaps." Pasquale says to Liara. "We could invest in sapping teams. It may be easier to go under the thorns than through."

Jan says, "Who's to say the roots wouldn't be as big a problem as the thorns? I suppose we won't know until we start trying things."

Pasquale nods to Denica after a few whispered words are shared.

Medeia looks to Liara and Lou, offering some... Reassurances? "The Countess and I will take point. As for new samples? I am uncertain. If any Grayson scouts have brought them back, I would be glad to take them. Otherwise, we may need to send some scouts."

Darren looks between Liara and the rest of the group. "I would, once again, like to hear from people better informed than I about whether such defensive fortifications has any hope of being able to contain our enemy."

Jan's gaze looks to Pasquale. She then searches the crowd for another face....and the longer she seeks her frown deepens.

"I think it is more to mitigate the damage his minions would cause." Alis says, looking over at Darren. "This way if he sends out a gargantuan, or whatever else he's fucking cooking up in there, we have a chance to stop it before it ravages more of the surrounding lands.

Here, here, here. Sen may not be an artist - in fact, she is far, far from an artist - but what she is, is someone who used to lead a prominent band of sellswords, and used to work under a master at the art of war. It has clearly left its mark. She knows where to indicate fields that might hold armies, trees that might shield infiltration parties, high grounds and low grounds that are still somewhere outside the vast wall of thorns that has sprung up. As defensive works are mentioned, she starts marking down rough areas that might work for that as well. "...With the caveat this is a decade old," she mutters. "...My very limited experience being *around* people who know about and can manipulate magical defenses does have me wondering. If he wants to keep the barrier up, he'll have to expend energy to do so. If we can start cracking it open, at the very least, it might drain his resources. If we cracked it in multiple places, but only focused on a smaller one, we might be able to get a few teams in. The danger, obviously, being what if that thing starts closing on them before they're through." She looks toward Darren, and says, immediately, "No. But he has no reason to want to break out. He had agents scouring every inch of the countryside for primum sources, but he's completely stopped now. He has what he needs. Any assault would be meant as a distraction for us, nothing more."

Aconite has joined the a round table with inset amber and glass badgers.

Khanne fiddles with a feather dangling from a cord in her hair as she listens to everyone else speak.

Liara offers a faint nod to Pasquale and Jan, then opines, "It is as Lady Jan says. We can try it once there, but in all likelihood will need to attempt several approaches."

She says to Darren, "It is as the Princess of Sanctum says. While the Traitor certainly has certain creatures against which defences are quite pointless, most of his forces are entities which must walk on land, as you or I do, and against which even simple earthworks provide our soldiers a significant boon."

"There is a Barony in some of the lands that are covered by vines that people could also not cut through. I do not believe they tried to eat people though. It's possible we lead an expedition there for you obtain more specimens," Lou offers to Medeia. "But, I suggest you also bring people who have weapons of higher quality like diamondplate and alaricite, that might be able to try to cut through things. Or, you know, something that makes the plants weaker to cut through them." There in she gives Medeia a lead when she thinks more about their scouting stuff.

Lax, shop help from the Lowers arrives, delivering a message to Vitalis before departing.

Preston nods his head slowly as Patrizio answers, his thumb rubbing against his index finger as he thinks "When that occured, we were able to invoke Gloria to protect the wounded and the command tent - perhaps that gives some hope. Gloria has more reason than most to hate any working with, or around, Carnage." As Lou mentions the formula, Preston queries "Have we considered asking those Cardians who are friendly to the old agreements? Dragon fire can scorch everything it seems." Finally Preston looks between Liara and Darren "Dame Ida would, I'm sure, be keen to help your grace Liara. We can likely raise ten or twenty thousand Templars in the crownlands in short order..." as others answer Darren though Preston lets his own addition lapse, only adding "Barriers may also give our men a little hope. To stand when every part of their body screams to run."

Aconite finally settles into a seat at a table. She's been listening to everyone, obsorbing what she can about the various suggestions the gathered discuss.

Titus frowns at something said, but offers to Preston at Patrizio's look, "The Saffron doesn't like outsiders on the best of days." To Sen'azala and Lou he says "The roots of that corruption go very deep in time and in the ground, they've been nurtured and fed with sacrifices for so long that trying to cleanse it would be impossible in such short time. One mentioned about the gods, perhaps we can take a strategy based on a similar moment where the world was about to be thrust to ruin , when potentially differing sides united to attack the greater problem so that the world can survive? To stop him, to stop ruin. Not only the gods but spirits and others who may be willing to help protect the world from this destruction. To fight that greater threat. Perhaps a group could work on that while others work on the thorns, the palisade? To find allies."

Darren doesn't continue to argue, but the longer the meeting goes on, the deeper the troubled furrow between his brows becomes.

Liara then looks over to Sen'azala and adds a thought, "A distraction or a way in which to wear us down and weaken us as we seek to gain entrance." She adds, "I do not anticipate that any of what we are discussing can be achieved by simply arriving and lighting the thorns on fire. It could very well take weeks before we can effect a breach in the hall's defences."

Tilting her head slightly, Fatima glances back and forth as people talk about what plans might work, and what won't. She toys with the edge of her shawl as she listens, not contributing further for now. Instead, she listens to those who appear to be more in the know about the threat the Traitor poses.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Jan before departing.

Vitalis receives another message, frowns at it and scribbles out a reply, then watches the door.

Liara then offers a short nod to Preston. "I would certainly appreciate her insight on such works."

"We've never fought something of this magnitude before, Your Grace." Alis quiets some, but sets herself near Darren to speak with him. "I understand and share your concerns, and right now, these are all just ideas. The fact is, we don't know what is going to work. If anything. But what we do know, from past encounters with abyssal creatures and Heralds is that it /will/ take all of us working together. Is there something specific you're looking for to allay some concerns?"

Darren makes a reply to Alis, his voice still troubled, but doesn't speak loudly enough for it to carry.

Sen'azala shakes her head, and tap tap taps her chin with the charcoal. Abruptly she abandons it and the drawing - though she's likely finished for the moment - and her chair as well. It's as though she simply can't sit still, even though pacing is probably fairly rude and distracting. "Let's lay out the goal," she says, as much to herself as anyone else. "Goal: kill the Horned God before he wakes Destiny. Ultimately that's the only way to end this. Complication: we have very little time to do so. Method: we can't kill him with an army. He's not scared of armies, no matter how large a one we can field." She glances sidelong toward Cefyn and Catherine. "...Though larger is better. How many do you think the alliance can raise? Things aren't exactly well out there. How many houses, clans?" She paces a few steps more. "Method," she picks up again. "We have one, but it's complicated, and relies on some very specific people surviving long enough to get in there and do what they need. What they - we - *need* to do, has to be done in his damn face. I can elaborate on that, but it'll have to be in a much more closed setting. As far as I know he doesn't know what we're planning, and success hinges on it staying that way."

"We have fought Heralds before, Princess Alis, if I may say. But we had time and help, and the price we paid was huge. Those of you who were at Stormwall will know that part of the cost, paid just to stop their forces not the Herald himself." As his voice drifts off, Preston's nose scrunches again and he rubs at his temple "Mm. Your Grace Liara. Alarice was a mage. And fought the Wood Elves, all the way to their throne room. Her wards even held against their magic for a time...ah! Yes. I do not suppose there is a cracked throne that was ever recovered and brought back with the Grayson armies? It might, well, tempt the prince. He was always so eager to sit in it. If we can focus him in one place, focus his attention, it lets.." And here Preston gestures to Sen "Others seek entry."

"Even if not enough of a substance can be created to eliminate a lot of the hedge ward," Edris finally says, "Even gaining enough to open a small path to others will be useful, and if we are successful, then we can turn our eyes to restoring the land afterwards. As those who can strike at his heart with the greatest amount of success gather, they shall still need those of us who can equip them with the tools or softening of their path as much as we can. And pray that while some allies have fallen, others will rise to step in. However dark and hopeless things appear, there is precedent for that as well."

There is a briefly pensive cast to Liara's features and she takes a moment, before saying, "I shall be proceeding to the hall with the host of the Crownlands. As to the strength of that army, every single House in the Crownlands answered the call. Not one refused. I cannot speak as to the rest of the Compact, but quite regardless of the futility of force of arms alone, more is indeed better."

Cefyn nods at Sen'azala's question. "Clan MacAlpin can raise an army to rival any Compact Duchy's, Prima," she says with firm confidence. "Our banners are awaiting the call. Against this foe, we stand united - and our Druids and our Bards will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with yours."

Jan considers "Perhaps we should identify the objectives, organize into teams for each objective, each reporting to the heads of the council?" there is always that one person who wants to suggest bureaucracy as a solution.

"Alarice isn't here," Sen says quietly, with an odd level of unhappiness. There's a nod toward Cefyn.

Catherine looks over towards Preston. "The Order of the Flame will bolster the Pantheon's forces, and our allies among the Abandoned of the Oathlands and the Crownlands will stand with us," she says. "And more will come, from across Arvum, when they hear that we take the field against a Herald. We know what is at stake."

Fatima rises from her seat after a time, and quietly slips out of the room.

"Not to my knowledge, Grandmaster," Liara replies to Preston. "However, my business of late has been of rulership and, regrettably, constant war. I am not well informed on certain more esoteric particulars and, in some respects, it is safer that it remain so."

3 Thrax Guards, 1 Thrax Elite Guards, Gula, a fat gila monster wearing a tricorn leave, following Fatima.

Lou speaks up after a fashion, "There's also another resource to consider, if we're recruiting. There are a number of abandoned tribes which have recently been released from The Traitor's or Slavery's thrall, due to some ongoing efforts of others. We're not sure how long this release will last but for now they are no longer enslaved - or at least their tethers are diminished enough they can act as individuals again. We might want to start recruiting some of them to our efforts as they certainly have no love for having been enslaved in the first place."

"The price to face evil is always huge, is it not?" Alis replies to Preston, expression solemn. "I have no doubt that the price to be paid for what we must do now is going to weigh on those of us who survive for the rest of our lives; and perhaps into future ones. On top of what already weighs on us." Whatever it is that Darren says quietly to her next, she grimaces. But, she nods her agreement and murmurs back.

Lax, shop help from the Lowers arrives, delivering a message to Vitalis before departing.

"No, but she did take their throne room. And the Prince is still.....all he has done for power, he still has some sense of guilt, or inadaquacy. He lost the Kingdom anyway. He arranged his father's death, but his father's soul still eluded him. It is the fears of any usurper. The whispers that, along with Vowbreaker, drove Crownbreaker wars." Preston answers to Sen, growing relatively animated for Preston at that subject even as he rubs at his temple a bit more. He calms a little though and nods to Catherine "I will direct the call to the Faith Militant. It will also take some of the steam out of those who seek division in the Faith I hope." That though seems to make Preston realise something as he looks around "I take it we accept he knows we are coming? It feels he is...inviting us in a way"

Quietly, her primary objective and a new objective handled, Medeia slips out of the meeting.

Liara speaks up again to the hall more generally, "Lady Jan has a point, which was already applied to the matter of alchemy, but might productively apply here, too. It is best that specific undertakings here be delegated. Will people who are prepared to organise the gathering of every possible force to oppose the Traitor please indicate themselves? That does indeed include Abandoned. We can then ensure that we do not duplicate efforts, or miss possibilities."

Medeia has left the a round table with inset amber and glass badgers.

2 Saik Guard, Celina, a dutiful physician's assistant, Giancarlo, a cooper and prize-fighter leave, following Medeia.

Tesha's chin was resting on the back of her hand as she was listening to all of the talk. Then she gives a bit of a nod to herself before she straightens back up. "I will bring part of Telmar's army to bolster those from the Crownlands and whoever else decides to put soldiers to the situation." she states as her scarred face looks to Liara and then to those around the room. She then rests back in her seat. Finished with what she came here to do apparently.

Pasquale asks Preston. "What makes you feel he is inviting us? It took many hours of work to determine where he had retreated to."

Caspian looks over to the Prima when she speaks of having a plan to kill the traitor, his brow arched. There was a clear burning desire to know more, but he stayed his questions, instead scribbling intensely on the notebook.

Titus says to Liara, "Alarice isn't here, but at one point in time she along with others had their legends and myths built on the actions and decisions of their today. Don't expect heroes from the past to fight today for tomorrow's future, find your heroes among us now. We may be small and far away but our swords bite sharply and deeply, House Vaevici will bring our legions to bolster the forces who will fight against the Horned God. We answer the call to protect the Compact and the world. We will fight and die so others can live."

"Your presence on the field is ever welcome, my lady," Liara says to Tesha, with evident sincerity and a brief smile for the Telmar.

Vitalis frowns at the second of missives arrived. He clears his throat and lifts his head. He holds up the missives a bit as a kind of signal that this here is what he's referencing. "I took the liberty of writing Artisan Harrow, Cufre. Dame Felciia's sister. And she seems to have some experience or knowledge of the place and she suggests that any approach on the Hall," he scans the missives, "Is unwise in the extreme and that it should be avoided at all costs." He pauses, brow furrowed, "I think I'd like to speak with her more, though I think she wouldn't stray much from that position but-" a pause to consider his words, "Are we convinced we need to raid Harrow Hall? Would it be sufficient to ... mmh? Contain it?" He doesn't seem like he *loves* that idea, but, he's offering a dissenting opinion.

Mattheu speaks up after a long silence. "Our navy is available for transport upon the rivers. This could prove helpful for additional assault and in keeping wounded in the distance."

"Sir Catherine and I," says Cefyn, "Are allies of the Compact, for this, but not part of it. We will contact our peoples, and they will send out the call." And then she's looking to Vitalis. "We cannot leave him alone in there to do as he wills. He doesn't need to come out to enslave us all, if he manages to pull off what he tried the other week."

Receiving a small note from a messenger, Denica starts to stand up, glancing over at Liara, "I will liaise with my respective organizations to confirm support and reach out on what that will look like," the woman says as she prepares to make her exit. "I'm also happy to assist in any future planning, or take on any relevant task." Denica volunteers herself for whatever, before she dashes off, to deal with whatever was written on that note.

Khanne murmurs, "I think he always expects us to be after him. It's a giant game of cat and mouse to him." She shrugs a bit then looks to Liara. "I am sure there is more I can do, but, the least I can do it speak to the Abandoned on Halfshav lands and seek their assistance. House Halfshav will of course contribute everything we can. We must be willing to fight with every talent we have, knowing well that losses may be great. But if we do not... there is no future for our children and our children's children."

Stojan, a cleverly reserved assistant, 3 Thrax Guards, 1 Ulbran Thug, Sivas, an artsy ostentatious curator, Lady Snow, 1 Thrax Elite Guards, Cato, a stealthy non-descript man leave, following Denica.

"Because he is staying still. And because he always wants an audience to his victories." Preston answers to Pasquale "He is cunning, and cleverer than I ever thought. More devious too. But. He is just a child who never grew up. He wants to be a God not just for power, but for others to acknowledge that power, his right. Those titles he stole." As he gets to the end, Preston is nearly spitting but he catches himself and clears his throat, before nodding towards Liara "The Faith will muster, and I will provide protection to Sir Catherine and the Order of the Flame if required. Not all my brothers and sisters are as obedient as their oaths demand, but I think few would countermand the sanctuary offered by the Faith."

Sen'azala doesn't seem to take any solace from Preston's words, but they do seem to motivate her to push whatever the sudden melancholy was about to the side. She up-nods toward Liara. "I'll call the alliance that's been made with the Abandoned. As many as will fight with us. As many as possible. I don't honestly think any of these armies should reach Harrow Hall before the others. If there's going to be a siege, best to have it all at once, so we're less easily picked off. My focus, though..." She looks toward Liara. Preston. "There's something I personally have to do to end this. I'm ready. The people I need are ready. The person who needs us is...I hope as ready as she can be. We *have* to reach him alive. As I said, I can elaborate in closer settings. Leadership ought to at least know broadly what needs to happen there."

Pasquale nods at Prestons answer, ccontemplates what Liara asked for a few moments, and then tells Liara. "I can coordinate the gathering of the forces, if it pleases everyone here."

Thea nods to Medeia as she leaves. Then she's saying,"Wyvernheart will of course help in anyway we can." There's a curious look at the Prima as well, but she doesn't quite ask.

A pained look crosses Edris' face for a moment before he cuts it off, murmuring something softly to Alis, before straightening. There's empathy for Sen'azala's words for some reason that breaks the reserve again, even if it's cloaked in a strange sort of grief to move over his features as well. "Then I pray that all of us may weave things that help cleave a path for you as well, Prima."

Adalyn looks to Cefyn, "I do not believe that is what Lord Vitalis means." she looks around at the group, "I would think perhaps speaking with Artisan Harrow, Cufre would be a good idea. She could help figure a better way in to deal with it with her knowledge and experience."

"Countess Wyvernheart, if you've need of any resources to assist with the undertaking you and Lady Medeia are a part of, please do not hesitate to ask. I'll see that it is provided." Alis offers. "And I will marshall any of the Oathlands forces as necessary. But I do agree with Prince Darren that we must carefully consider how we are going to approach this. We are only going to have one chance, so we have to make sure we do it right. Despite having little time in which to do so."

"Though I will echo His Grace," speaks Patrizio, with a glance towards Darren. "It is all good for us to be collecting our forces and preparing for the inevitable that /will/ find us. Both the forces beneath our banners, and those shav'arvani within our domains who are allied, or willing to be allied. Still, let us make certain we are doing all before we commit our forces to the field to ensure success without sacrificing lives needlessly." He draws a breath, and turns his eyes to Liara. "That said, Pravus will stand with Grayson and demonstrate such with our arms, when the time comes." This comes with a nod to Pasquale as well, for having spoken up about coordinating such.

Liara replies to Titus and then Mattheu, each with a small dip of her chin. "I appreciate it, my lords. And while Alarice is indeed not here, we make our own heroes."

She takes in the offers put forward by Denica, by Khanne, and Sen'azala too, then the declarations that Cefyn and Catherine are allies. Then, following Pasquale's offer, she suggests to them all, "You, and any others interested, might liaise after this meeting, to devise a plan and ensure that every corner of Arvum home to people outside the Compact who might nonetheless send aid receives word. I realise that is a large request, but the particulars are a matter for those far more familiar with Abandoned than I to work out in their own time."

Jarrett, personal assistant to Ansel arrives, delivering a message to Tesha before departing.

Jan says, "Here Here highlord!"

Vitalis looks from Mattheu to Liara, "Highness and Lord Rivenshari, is that passage the same as we took to Bastion, or another? For there is the matter of a demonic presence along the river." The Oil Nun. Anyone recall her?

Thea gives a smile to Alis. "Thank you." Then she's listening closer to the others. Not saying anything unless she has to.

There is a smile of appreciation when Liara acknowledges Mattheu and his offer. Dipping her head in the princess direction. Turning her attention to Vitalis when he addresses Mattheu and she's looking to Mattheu to see his answer.

Tesha is overheard praising Liara.

Tesha is overheard praising Lou.

Darren listens, still with a troubled furrow to his brow. He nods towards Alis and Patrizio when each of them references the questions he's been trying to ask.

Jan is overheard praising Liara.

Mattheu stares at Vitalis before stepping closer to him for a softer conversation

Liara absorbs what Patrizio has to say, and replies, "I appreciate that, your grace. The exact approach to the hall and the timing of the same is a matter still very much open to discussion. Though from what I hear, a consensus appears to be that we arrive all at once, rather than as soon as we can." She purses her lips faintly, then observes, "The hall is very much an unknown to me. I spent two years pursuing the Traitor's forces, under the Thornweave witch, trying to force them to give battle, and they would not, right up until they assailed Arx. However, I appreciate that any force available to the Traitor directly may be far greater."

Adalyn nods to Mattheu as he comes closer to Vitalis to speak with him, there is a soft frown forming on her lips as she holds onto Vitalis elbow.

Catherine looks at Cefyn, then to Liara. "Thank you, Highlord," she says, "But Prima Sen'azala is best-placed to attend your council. The Warlord and I have a great deal to do in a very short time."

Vitalis bows to the Highlords and luminaries of the realm, "Clement and I are at your service, of course."

Preston leans over towards Catherine, a concerned look as he addresses the older knight "Sir Catherine. I do not suppose you are skilled in anyway in cleansing things? Demonically imbued things? Given Lagoma's blessings, and all." Preston does however look towards the others and nods "Are we to be open that it is Harren Hall we march on? Or shall I simply direct the crusade banners to gather at Arx?"

Pasquale nods to Liara. "I can arrange a meeting for people to pledge soldiers, alliances and other aid to the siege."

Sen'azala answers Preston, "He's not being subtle. I think he knows we're coming. At the very least, he's prepared for it. All he needs to do is delay us long enough."

Liara replies to Pasquale, "I was thinking specifically of those who are outside the Compact, my lord. It sounds to a great extent as if much of it is already well in hand, though."

"I'm sure he knows we're coming, with the Grayson military having chased after his forces for two years," Lou says with some certainty. "He's also lost Helena Thornweave as one of his allies."

Pasquale nods at Liara's words.

Liara nods to Lou, though then suggests to Preston. "The host of the Crownlands is still camped here at Arx. It is not a long journey to the hall, by sea and river, from here. I suggest that Arx is the best place to assemble, if we are to arrive at one time, rather than as quickly as possible."

Caspian looks to lou then and nods, "That is true.. but I suspect Calyana will be more than eager to fill that spot for him. And would expect to see her and that damned axe in any action we take."

Jan listens quietly, attentive, having little more to add but her lips remain curved into a small troubled frown.

"Oh, I have the axe." Preston says, rather casually

Darren looks over at Nils, his steward, when the old man appears at his elbow and whispers something in his ear. He nods, and moves to depart.

Vitalis blinks and looks at Preston, "You have Vowbreaker?"

"I have had some success," Catherine replies to Preston, "But there is cleansing and there is cleansing, Sir Preston."

Tesha gives a bit of a look to the letter from Ansel and then there is a breath taken as she rises. She gives a simple, but respectful bow to the High Lords in attendance and then everyone else, "Please be safe. I need to go meet with Duke Ansel." she states with an apologetic look to her eye before she heads for the exit.

Lou crinkles her brow at Preston when he mentions he has Vowbreaker. "How did you come by the axe?" she wonders.

Lax, shop help from the Lowers arrives, delivering a message to Vitalis before departing.

Tesha has left the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Preston leans back in his chair, nodding at Vitalis' query "I do. The Templars have always sought to handle such matters. But. Calyana and Vowbreaker are not threats to be concerned with, however he had other blades of The Will. Crusader felt them, and Crusader has been fighting them all its blessed existance. Gloria made it, gave it to us, and allowed me to rediscover it, so we could protect the innocent. Including from those blades." At Lou's query, Preston shakes his head "I wish I had a great story, but I do not. The victory belongs to another - Calyana was given a reprieve. And she overcame the dark. And I gave her forgiveness for what she did under Legion's direction. I think her love for the little usurper Prince is quite broken. And I can sympathise. I know what is is to serve someone for love and faith, and discover their core is rotten."

Liara takes a moment, collecting her thoughts, then speaks up to the hall again, "So far, it would appear that we have consensus on experts seeking a solution to the thorns, on sundry individuals communicating with Abandoned, and that the forces of the Compact, at the least, should arrive at the hall at the same time, and not one group after another. Beyond that, while we cannot very well win by force of arms, it is apparent that some must seek entry to the hall, to undertake a task I do not propose to ask about."

Having set that out, she asks, "Keeping in mind the substantial number of unknowns that we face, does anybody wish to raise further matters or proposals?"

Jan says, "what axe/"

Lax, shop help from the Lowers arrives, delivering a message to Vitalis before departing.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Patrizio before departing.

Sen'azala twitches noticeably as the topic turns briefly to the Will. Her teeth are even visible for a moment. Someone's not a fan. To Liara, she says, "Ask. But not here." She makes a gesture that seems to include Preston in this.

Caspian blinked at preston a few moment, a look of disbelief and maybe frustration on his face for a moment. he nods then, jaw tense. "Well, thats one less problem to worry about. chances just went up ever so slightly."

Lou stares a moment at Preston. "Well, that's another person out of the Traitor's arsenal. He's down two powerful mages." She looks to Sen, "Do you suppose that's partially why he holed up in the Hall?"

"That is uncommonly good news." To Jan, "Vowbreaker was an incredibly powerful corrupt weapon that in Calyana's hands was even more devastating. To hear they are both off the board is good news indeed." He inclines his head to Preston.

As Liara asks for final matters, Preston shakes his head "I will summon the Crusade, and then...I think I must pray and seek Gloria's blessing. If the Faith can gather enough Paladins, even if it is one per God, we may be able to save lives." Preston then nods to Catherine "I will seek you oout then, Sir Catherine. I do not want us to leave too much behind in case we do not return." As Jan queries about the axe, but is answered, Preston just nods as the explanation given

Lax, shop help from the Lowers arrives, delivering a message to Vitalis before departing.

Lax, shop help from the Lowers arrives, delivering a message to Vitalis before departing.

Liara gives a faint nod to Sen'azala and replies simply, "Very well." Her gaze turns from speaker to speaker as she absorbs the news about Calyana, then she looks to Preston, with a mild, "Thank you."

Messengers to and fro, Vitalis grimaces apology. He gestures again at the missives and speaks to the three who are gathering for further discussions, "I think you all should speak with Messere Harrow. She has ideas that might benefit the plans going forward."

Jan nods her thanks to Vitalis "Thank you for the explanation.'

"Maybe," Sen says toward Lou. "But he's got no reason to leave. His goal is a ritual, not winning a war. I can only assume Harrow Hall is where he was during the Blood Moon." She crosses her arms over her chest. "But I think he expects *us* to try to win a war. He expects armies and valiant deeds. Let him have that and more. He thinks he's safe."

Ann looks to Vitalis when he speaks up and her eyes drift to Adalyn. Small nod seen but no words from her. she is here to observe and take notes and nods again at quiet words from Matti.

Edris nods in agreement with Vitalis' suggestion to include Messere Harrow.

"Indeed. The insight of the Harrows, with all the investigation they have conducted over the years, will be of tremendous value," Liara opines to Vitalis.

Eztli, a small gila monster arrives, delivering a message to Titus before departing.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Patrizio before departing.

Catherine nods to Preston, then rises to her feet. "Lords and Ladies of the Compact, the time for waiting is done. Change is upon us all, and it is for us to meet it." She offers the assembly a bow, then turns towards the door.

Liara offers a brief smile to Catherine, then looks across the hall.

"Have we any final input before adjourning?" she checks.

Catherine has left the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Vitalis is overheard praising Liara.

Vitalis is overheard praising Lou.

Lou gives a small shake of her head at Liara's question, seemingly churning everything over discussed tonight from her expression.

Sen'azala's mouth has drawn into a thin line, but she shakes her head as well. Nothing to add, at least to the meeting.

Aconite has been quiet the whole time, thoughtful but having nothing to add tonight. She stands and slips back out.

Aconite has left the a round table with inset amber and glass badgers.

Briar, the fleet and agile shrike, Alejandro, a gravely sober middle-aged Torean leave, following Aconite.

Jan studies the rest of those here with a small frown.

Caspian makes a small exploding motion with his hands and grin, mouthing the word 'fire'

Preston pushes himself to his feet and nods to Liara "I did nothing, your grace. The thanks belongs to others - the hardest thing I did was forgive her." But he bows his head to her, and to the other remaining high lords "May you walk always in the light of the Gods."

Lou has left the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

"I've nothing to add. Thank you, Your Grace, for hosting the meeting." Alis says politely, as she and Edris prepare to depart.

Liara takes a moment to await further input, then concludes, "Thank you all for attending. Please correspond if any issues arise from this meeting which would require or benefit from my attention, or if you wish for direction to somebody who could address whatever the concern might be."