When Winter comes the sun sets just a touch earlier. It is a couple hours ahead of that time as the sun creeps toward the horizon on an overcast day. The seemingly perpetual gloom that hangs over the Mazetti estate is only enhanced by the cloudy day. The new arrivals are met by a number of servants, all attired in their finest and exceptionally attentive to the needs of the arrivals. Each guest is gradually show into the Guardian Gallery and directed to the expansive table atop the tiered dais in the center of the circular chamber. The gloom of the day is visible through the glass domed ceiling of the chamber, which permits the day's light to filter in from above. The center of the chamber, and thus the table, are bathed in the cold gray daylight while the outer edges of the chamber are left in shadow and gloom. Each of the statues which appear largely identical to the next are likewise throw into gloomy relief by the cold light of Winter. Braziers burn however, providing the chamber with a degree of warmth. Yet it never seems quite enough for the expansive room. While it's not so cold as to call breath to steam, it's certainly cool.

As bodies begin to filter in from the vestibule into the Guardian's Gallery, Hadrian stands atop the dais. Arms spread wide he begins to descend the steps to their midway point as he calls out to the first arrivals, "Ladies, Lords, friends and guests, welcome to Mazetti Manor. Please come inside, join together at the table, drinks and refreshments will be provided. Let's talk emergencies and how to prepare for the possibility of more of them, shall we?" The Marquis of House Mazetti doesn't seem to discriminate between guest or member of The Group. Everyone is addressed equally as he welcomes all.

The Countess Arcelia Navegant was already there when the first guests were escorted in. She rises to her feet when people begin to arrive and follows just behind Hadrian to greet the guests. When he invites them all to go and sit she once again moves to where she had been seated but for now she remains standing while she politely waits for guests to file in to the table and get comfortable.

Dressed to the nines in black and red, the Lawyer of Merchant Road, Mira Matessi, arrives stiff and formal, with a long black dress and a tight corset under a long winter coat. Fox-haired and blue-eyed, her hair is worn as a short ponytail with two fluffed bangs arched above her severe golden glasses, and a red stone sits at the clasp of her jacket at her throat. The jacket is open down the middle to frame her bare neckline, and an opal sits just above her chest. She's arrived with Merek Black, of Dream Creations, though her hands are clasped low before her, rather than in tow.

Ian's servant shower-inner probably wound up teeth grinding through their frustration at having to lead someone who'd lose a race to a slug. Evan walks even slower than usual, today, and has to focus all of his attention on placing each step. A couple of fading contusions on his face and a healing cut near his jaw attest either to a really nasty fall or that he's been in a fight. The careful way he holds his upper body suggests cracked or broken ribs. With all of this, it's hardly a surprise that there's pain in his drawn features and the tension of his jaw. His almost unnaturally blue eyes are still serene, though, and he seems content to take things as they come.

Quenia passes through the doors into the Mazetti Manor, eyes full of curiosity. She's never been to such a meeting before, and so this is a new experience for her. She came with her cousin, Lucita. Quenia is dressed in a winter white and blue outfit, with a matching pair of snowflake hairpins. She smiles easily at Hadiran when greeted. "Thank you for the warm welcome," she says in response, then looks to Lucita. "Find seats together?" she asks.

Not far behind Ian is Alarissa, dressed in respectful black - beaded. A glance to Hadrian at the welcome and then Arcelia with a smile. Little wonder that the Valardin Princess is here but here she is and is swiftly sussing out a seat, with a smile and a soft greeting for Mira when seeing the lawyer.

    Merek has come with Mira, and smiles to her, then he takes out a journal and a writing pen which he dips into an ink well after he settles into a seat and helps the lawyer into one. Once he does, he begins to take notes after inclining to those there. He has black leather armor on with a belt across it, and a diamondplate sword on his back. He also has a stygian waist chain on with a sphalerite at his hips.

Lucita's reply to her cousin is delayed for a moment as she takes time to glance around the room, quickly noting the glass dome the columns, the fine marble construction materials and other details. An appreciative nod is given as she says to Quenia. "Yes, certainly. Have you spotted a good seat yet? This looks like an interesting place!"

Estaban comes walking in looking around the young Saik Lord is dressed in his leathers in the Said house colors with a sword at his hip and a bow strapped to his back, his eyes sca n around to see who is here.

Ian settles in with the air of someone who's trying to keep as far out of the way as possible. Which isn't possible at all, really, when there's just the one table, and said table on a dais and lit by a natural spotlight. But Ian's an optimist. He's going to try.

Hadrian seems to have forgotten that his right wrist and arm have been bandaged, plus held within a sling. So when he goes to stretch his arms out to his side in his customary gesture of welcome, he winces and teeth grit together in pain. He sucks a breath through his teeth for a moment before he exhales and clears his throat. Quickly composing himself once again he turns and gestures with his left arm for those entering to continue onward up to the table. He clears his throat and turns about. As he begins to climb the steps of the dais to the table seated atop it once again, Hadrian begins to speak without further delay, "The Arvum Refugee Relief Group was established after the Silent War," he begins to explain. "Our goal has been and always will be aiding those displaced by war, famine, and all manner of unspeakable atrocities. We do this through charitable endeavors with the goal of minimizing our overhead. That is why we do not have a central office, we do not have a standing security force, or the like. We've an arrangement with the Knights of Solace in order to assist us in our security matters away from Arx. Our objective is to house these displaced individuals, offer marketable training to those who require it, and ideally find permanent homes for them in a location of their choosing amongst those we have made arrangements with to accept them. Any questions so far?", Hadrian asks with bright harlequin green eyes tracing up and down the length of the granite-topped table with the silver-inlaid sigil of House Mazetti in the center of its surface. He seems to take note of faces, both familiar and strange, as he eases himself down and into the chair at the head of the table. As he settles in he gives another wince as he works to adjust his slung arm, without taking his attention away from the meeting as much as he is able.

%"Does this also offer services to refugees from Eurus and Abandoned Tribes?" Merek asks after a moment as he lifts his hand up to ask his question. He seems to be taking notes as he listens as well. He has a flask with him, which has a nice blue champagne in it he sips from as he writes.

Mira drops her stony expression to smile cheerfully and wave at Alarissa, rather breaking the illusion of austerity. But then she's back to being serious as she's about to take a seat...when she spots Estaban. And, her eyes a little wider, she very subtly moves another chair down, further away. Mira also glances over at Ian and flashes him a smile as well, tilting her head a bit at his seeming shyness. But then she's looking to Hadrian, not making any comment just yet and letting others speak if necessary.

Quenia curtseys to any princes or princesses before she moves to take a seat at the table, saying to Lucita, "This is just perfect." She arranges primly arranges her skirts around herself, then folds her hands upon the top of the table as she turns to listen to Hadrian's explanation of the organization. A small slip of a smile touches upon her lips, and a measure of approval touches her eyes. "A worthy cause," she notes, but shakes her head. "No questions so far."

Estaban looks to Mira with a smirk of his lips and moves over to sit next to her, he nods in her direction then looks up to Harald watching him and listening.

Shy would imply uncomfortable, and aside from the bit about being in pain, Ian doesn't look uncomfortable. Probably shy would also imply not meeting people's gazes, and Ian has the gaze of a cat that can look at a king. He shifts his focus from person to person, and watches them for as long as he feels he needs to, regardless whether he gets caught 'staring' in the meantime. Add to that the calm that's almost palpable around him, and he's not staying quiet and trying to be out of the way because he's shy.

Mira is sitting next to Merek and listening to Hadrian quietly when she feels someone sitting next to her on her other side. Tensing up and her eyes widening a bit, Mira glances over at Estaban, frozen for a moment before offering him an awkward quirk of a smile and a slight nod with a tilt of her head before looking back to Hadrian.

Lucita settles in place beside Quenia after proper gestures of respect are given. She listens carefully, her hands folded neatly in her lap. She is obviously paying attention to the speaker and lets a simple shake of the head indicate she has no questions at present.

Servants step up the dais with platters of finger foods; meats, breads, cheeses. Peppers can be spotted among the foods - even some in the various cheeses made available, it is a Lycene household after all. An assortment of beverages and glasses are delivered from among the servants. Wine, cider, water, rum, whisky, juice... there's certainly an assortment!

Arcelia sits quietly, letting other people ask questions while she listens and takes notes. The woman looks utterly exhausted like she hasn't slept in a week and she's a touch shifty like she can't get comfortable where she's at. Otherwise, she's perfectly proper.

Question asked by another, one she recognizes, Alarissa looks to Hadrian now that there is a need and a desire for the answer. Servants are politely waved off with a serene smile.

Hadrian turns his attention to Merek's question and he offers a sudden flash of a smile before the Marquis sits up and forward, wincing with the movement before he answers, "At this time? If they arrive in Arx and seek refuge among the accomodations we have available? We will not turn them away so long as they follow the Compacts laws and, in the event of the Abandoned, are willing to swear fealty to the Crown or a corresponding Great House's Highlord. Just as any other Prodigal of the Compact." Hadrian settles back into his chair once again and he spares a glance to those gathered at the table. He seems to study faces as his eyes travel up and down the length of each side of the table. When he continues it is with his attention cast to Merek, "It is my hope that ARRG's efforts can extend beyond Arx with time, but for the moment we are still handling matters with the Siege's refugees. A great many people within Arx alone were displaced. Some of them wish to move beyond the capital and into a new, permanent home now that their lives have been turned upside down due to conditions which are no fault of their own."

Ian caves without shame to stereotype. Rum it is. He takes a couple of healthy (unhealthy?) swallows and then has the decorum to nurse the rest along at a more civilized pace.

    Merek nods to the answer which Hadrian states, and takes more notes. He looks to Mira and blinks a few times, but then shows her his notes, which anyone near her can see is a lot of scholarly things about the meeting. He then nods a bit, and considers, "Thank you," he adds, while he takes his time to twirl around that metal pen and dips it in ink once more. Another sip from his flask as he does.

Mira leans forward and offers with a hand on the table, "I might advise that, should you actually come across an Eurusi escapee, treat them with the greatest care and present them to either your Head of House or the King for immediate protection. Such refugees are likely in imminent danger if discovered." Taking a drink from a server, a light strawberry wine, she settles back, frowning a bit. "Have the refugees made murmurings of *where* they would like to go?"

"A very good point, yes," Hadrian concedes with a nod toward Mira before he continues, "We are quite adept at discretion however. But your point is a valid one." He considers the final question before he offers a faint shake of his head, "Many of these people merely want an opportunity to live in peace, work their respective trades, and be left alone. More often than not they're open to placement generally anywhere that will accept them. We have our own rules and conditions on where we will guide them. Land routes are under the escort of the Knights of Solace, as mentioned we've an arrangement with the Faith on the matter. Nautical routes are logistically directed by Admiral Caelis of House Malvici." Hadrian goes silent after he's offered his answers. Then he gestures with his uninjured arm toward Arcelia, "Countess Arcelia Navegant heads up one branch of ARRG's efforts. She, typically, organizes the negotiators and those who we frequently send to meet with the leaders and Voices of various Houses to negotiate the possibility of their acceptance of refugees into their lands. We do not wish to send these people who have had it hard enough into squallor, so we ensure that there will be homes ready for new arrivals. This way they can immediately be lodged in their new homes, settle in quickly, and return to a more typically normal state. Working, being productive, and leading peaceful lives. Speaking of which...Countess? I'd like to meet with yourself, Princess Isabeau, and Princess Sasha soon to discuss those same efforts. Neither of which were able to be here this evening, obviously. I've a few Houses that I'd like to task the three of you with in reaching out to and consulting with."

Arcelia nods her head to Hadrian when he mentions her name and explains her job. She offers him a tired smile when he mentions he has some work for her to do but though tired it is a felt one. "Of course Marquis. I would be happy to meet about it."

    Merek leans back at his seat and scribes more notes. All the while he continues to drink as he does. He looks to Hadrian then Arcelia while he writes some notes down, and seems to consider as he brushes back his hair.

Lucita takes a goblet of wine from one of the servers as it is offered. Her gaze shifts from person to person as they speak. When there is what seems to be an appropriate spot to speak, she says. "Will take some time to construct housing, time to make arrangements and send messages back to Granato for assessments of what might be blended in. Lady Quenia is likely to have a clearer idea of the potential. I have not yet learned some of these details."

Alarissa's gaze goes to whomever is speaking, or to Hadrian where there are questions to answer but for the most part, the Valardin Princess remains quiet in her seat.

Ian nurses his drink along. He, too, watches without comment.

Hadrian casts a short nod toward Arcelia before his attention drifts to Lucita, "If Granato is willing to accept these individuals? Then I'll not turn away that offer, provided appropriate arrangements are made and the needs of the people are met. While I was the Duke of Southport, we accepted a number of refugees with full citizenship into our city. This in turn resulted in a nearly fourteen percent increase in tax revenue. There are benefits, beyond charity, to being charitable." Hadrian's attention drifts around the table for a moment before he adds, "Now, I know that it seems that I have all the answers. I don't. It's great to pretend to. It's great to seem one step ahead at all times, but that's not reality. That is why I need others; Countess Arcelia, Lord Estaban, Lady Caelis, Lord Karadoc and others. The goal is to bring together brilliant minds, who just happen to be charitable, in order to come up with new ideas and suggestions to make The Group successful. If we are successful? Then the people, the refugees in need, are successful."

Then, after that statement, Hadrian's attention abruptly turns to regard Estaban and he continues, "Lord Estaban? Are you comfortable going out on the sea? I heard you had a bit of an incident the last time you did."

    Merek takes his time to look around and listen while he drinks his flask, then he continues to scribe away on the parchment of the journal. There's a frown and he looks to a corner, while he shifts a bit in his seat, sinking back, as if avoiding view from something not even there. Either way he tries to look casual as he sighs.

Estaban nods his head, "Yes Marquis Hadrian." that just feels odd to say for him, but he looks to the man, "I did, but it will not stop me from going out onto the water again." he smiles looking to the gathered and back to the man. "It happends once in a while even to the best of us."

There's some really dark humor in Ian's brief smile.

"I am Marquessa Quenia Igniseri," the leader of House Igniseri speaks up. "I will readily second what my Voice, Lady Lucita Igniseri has offered." Quenia nods in Lucita's direction, and also offers her introduction to those around them. "The city of Granato is most definitely open to taking in any who need homes. If you'll let us know what your conditions are - perhaps at another time - so we can make the appropriate arrangements, we would be glad to do so. Perhaps this is something we can speak about more intimately at the dinner Marquessa Cambria and I are planning between our houses, and House Rubino-Zaffria." She pauses, then adds. "And, I've some knowledge of warfare and diplomacy, and would offer my services however you might need them. I see this as a worthy cause to back, as there are so many people in need, and I would like to think someone would have offered the same kind of help to my brothers had they survived the Battle of Pridehall and were displaced from their homes."

"Good," Hadrian nods once in return to Estaban's answer. Finally he sits up a little straighter and winces as he shifts his arm around in an effort to seek a more comfortable position at the head of the table. "Now, the reason that we're here. House Thrax and it's vassals suffered losses. While they may not have refugees for us to accept or aid, they were dealt a very serious blow. I'd like for us to provide aid to them. How can we do this? We could go around, begging and pleading on the behalf of House Thrax...or we can not. Those from the Mourning Isles wouldn't do it, nor do I suspect they'd expect anyone to do it on their behalf. So, we'll do it the way that we do most things with The Group. Charitable efforts. I plan on hosting a pair of charity endeavors alongside a member of the Whisper House soon. Prizes, entertainment, food, drink, perhaps some dancing, maybe more if I have it my way. Sometimes you have to spend money, to make money. Or, in this case, receive the support needed to aid those in need. You need financial help to host an event? You need ideas? I'm open to assisting how I'm able with all of these things. I just need communication from you," Hadrian says this with a glance to those who are full members of The Group.

Hadrian offers a nod back to Quenia and a broad grin of a smile, "Thank you, Marquessa. Marquessa Cambria did mention that dinner and I've been looking forward to it. We'll meet soon to discuss the details, ideally with Countess Arcelia present. That way we can lay out our expectations and also what your own hopes are in terms of who you receive - any particular trades that you'd like to draw from the refugee population and things of that nature."

    "I might not be a member of the Refuge Society, but I'll do what I can to assist," Merek speaks up after a moment, then pens more things down in ink, while he settles back and takes another drink from the champagne in his flask. Afterwards, he relaxes for the time being, scribing.

Alarissa is quietly standing up, discreetly moving from where she was sitting and making her way to the door to leave, quietly as possible.

Camille, Maxene, Elegance, Pellinor, Horse leave, following Alarissa.

Ian manages, somehow, not to look awkward at all -- or change expression, really -- when the subject shifts to his House's misfortunes. Maybe it's the fact that there's someone from Thrax here who outranks him.

Mira remains silent as well, frowning just a bit but not leaping to offer any suggestions. She's not even noble, after all.

"I look forward to the discussions, and Countess Arcelia is most welcome as well." Quenia responds, furrowing her brow at the next set of comments. She tilts her head to the side a bit, then adds. "House Igniseri is going to be hosting a wine tasting soon. Lady Lucita will be looking for entertainment for that endeavor. I could just as easily turn the tasting into an event to aid House Thrax, in which they would obtain some of the proceeds of any wine which was purchased that we'll have on display from our Granoto vineyards."

Arcelia offers a smile to Quenia. "Thank you Marquessa. I will look forward to speaking with everyone." She then goes back to being quite and listening to the events, letting Hadrian lead.

Lucita continues to listen carefully, a smile breaking through the serious expression she has shown through the flow of conversation. "Handling the refugees is a complex and large undertaking, and I hope it will be very successful. I can see a benefit to the city, too, in less strain on its resources to accommodate the refugees here." She glances toward Quenia and adds. "Yes, need to see what potential there is for entertainment."

"I would more than happily welcome your assistance on the matter of assisting House Thrax, Marquessa Quenia and Lady Lucita. Working with the Arvum Refugee Relief Group is strictly voluntary. We aren't paid. I don't knock down doors to say 'hey, meeting, sunset - be there or I'll send someone to cut you'. I mean... I *might* have better results at times, if I did. But I don't. So if you'd like to work with us? Both of you?" Hadrian asks with a glance of bright green eyes from Quenia to Lucita, "Then I will happily accept that offer. As for entertainment? If you're going to consider yourselves willing to work in ARRG's name? Then might I suggest reaching out to Master Saedrus of the Whisper House? The Softest Whisper is a personal friend and has *exquisite* tastes in many different outlets; from entertainment, to clothing, to hair care products." Hadrian nods once before his attention drifts again around the table. Finally Hadrian's attention settles onto Mira and her frown. He lifts his good hand and idly flaps his fingers in a come-here gesture before he speaks up, "You don't hide that you've got something on your mind well. Spit it out."

Mira blinks when she's called out, looking a bit surprised. "What? Well, I mean, I didn't..." Clearing her throat a bit, she shakes her head slightly, "We potentially have a very large workforce on our hands, and -many- ships just sank. Why not set some refugees to clearing forests and others to building ships? They could be based out of Lenosia, or even here in Arx, on the docks."

Estaban looks to Mira then Hadrian as if he has something to say.

Hadrian considers Mira for a moment after she speaks. Lips pursed together and his typically mirthful harlequin eyes simply stare at her for a long moment. When he finally tears his gaze away from Mira, it is to look back at Merek. He considers the comment made by him before Hadrian answers in return, "I appreciate your offer. Any offer or method of aid that you can provide, officially or otherwise, would be greatly appreciated and I would consider it a personal gesture. Thank you." Then Hadrian's attention returns to Mira. He glances to Estaban for a moment, but ultimately back to Mira before Hadrian's chin lifts and an answer is provided, "We...hrm...", he pauses for a moment to form his answer. A nod and then he continues, "...it would naturally require compensation for the refugees themselves. When they do work, they get paid. That's how it has always been. Now, as for just marching about lopping down trees? We'd have to have permissions from the land owners. The Gray Forest for example is territory to the Crown and a great many Houses within the Grayson line. We would need to meet with them and establish permissions from them, for our people to work the land, and put them to use in that role. All the while, compensating them, housing them, and all the rest. This is why we need the charitable pursuits. This is why we need people actively reaching out to the noble Houses, acquiring support, and all the rest. Now...you...", Hadrian asks with his attention still fixed squarely on Mira, "...you're one of ours, right? Part of the Group. Lord Karadoc brought you on, yes?"

Mira smirks, "Yes, and he vanished from the public eye right before actually giving me a job to do, or filling me in on anything I needed to know." She motions subtly toward the table, "And of course they would be compensated, as any laborer would be. They would also be producing materials necessary for their homes as well. And surely there are -other- forests in Arvum than the Gray Forest? Many of those woodlands are simply empty and unused--or occupied by un-bent shavs. We may even find some of our refugees willing to fight to help clear and cultivate the land. This may be quite the opportunity for us."

"Every single piece of Arvum belongs to someone," Merek tells Mira, "So no matter who you speak to it's going to require /someone/ relinquish land," he adds after a moment, adding to the conversation.

Mira glances aside at Merek, "Commoners work land that does not belong to them all the time. It simply becomes a question of who wants to reap the benefit?"

Estaban nods, "Also I would be careful sending any out into the woods at the moment, there are still some nasty issues being handled out there."

"All refugees are set up in sustainable homes prior to being moved. So before we could use them in such a way we would have to have homes built in those forests for the refugges. It might be more prudent to seek assistance from lumber producing houses and contract with them for the use of their serfs." Arcelia offers.

"Quite the opportunity for them," Hadrian corrects with an arched brow, "this isn't about us. It is about them. The people." He considers Mira for a long moment, glances over her, and then offers a soft nod of his head before he continues, "Very well. Lord Karadoc had business come up back home, I believe. However, in the future? You can reach out to me to discuss these matters. I apologize that I wasn't aware of your involvement until now, otherwise I'd have spoken with you sooner. For now? Consider yourself promoted...as much as I can promote you amongst a charity. You have good idea. Perfect? No, but rarely anything is. You're at least thinking outside the box. Now, the reason that I've not considered sending the refugees off to some distance place in Arvum to chop down trees for vessels in Arx? Consider the immense cost associated with that. We would need to request the Knights of Solace to see them to their destination, potentially clear it of shav'arvani tribes...however...it is not a bad idea either. We have amongst us a few able bodied negotiators. We could potentially convince those very tribes to bend the knee, whilst providing us access to needed lumber... this is why you've been promoted...ah...what was your name again?" Hadrian asks of Mira with a raised brow.

Ian looks to Arcelia. "Do you know if Baron Stormbreak is looking for settlers?" He asks. Another mark on the definitely not shy column: When he DOES finally say something, his voice is level, his words unhurried.

"Yes, and Baron Stormbreak has intentions to speak with ARRG about that soon as well." Arcelia offers Ian a smile and a nod as she speaks.

Mira lays a hand at her chest, near the large opal, "Mira Matessi. And we are acting like these refugees are all fragile war orphans, or people crippled and unable to help themselves. The wild lands of Arvum are not populated by regimented lines of shav infantry, nor are the wilds densely populated at all. These refugees will fight bravely and boldly to establish new towns and new trade routes into the wilds. They would go from homeless beggars living on charity to pioneers, warriors, explorers." She sweeps a hand in front of her, "Immense cost? Bringing housing with them? Have we lived behind the walls of Arx so long we've forgotten how to build a log cabin? A thatched hut? How to clear land with the sweat of a man's brow and the strength of his back? Don't send Knights of Solace--send Crimson Blades! Forge new roads into the unknown! And those brave people will bring back the materials we need to rebuild--and expand!"

Mira nods firmly, frowning, "Yes, opportunity for /us/. For /Arvum/. For /all/ of us."

Quenia waits patiently while Hadrian deals with Mira and her concerns, and when that seems to be getting handled she finally says. "I would like to offer my assistance to your organization as a voluneer," she tells Hadrian, including Arcelia in her commenting since she knows the other woman is involved as such herself. "I think it would be a good way to give back to the city, and get more involved, as I do not have the martial skills that my brothers did when they served in the military. Also, it's something that's useful and /needed/ for the refugees...." And, oh dear, it appears she ended up interrupting after all! She flushes faintly, and quiets as the discussion between them continues.

"Many of the refugees are not warriors." Arcelia points out. "They may not be able to fight. They are women, children, and elderly as well as able bodied men."

"There's an army from the north that'll soon march south, we shouldn't be out taking more land, especially where people might have refuge, and unknown things," Merek tells Mira, then he shakes his head a bit, "Not to mention that the Solace's job is to protect those out and about doing things such as this. Why hire a /mercenary/ company whose known for war?" He frowns a lot at this. "The wild lands of Arvum are populated by many dark things these days."

"Now, a more personal aside," Hadrian remarks almost too cheerfully as he snaps his fingers on his left side. He points then to Ian, "Haaaaave you all met Ian? Lord Ian Kennex, I should say. He's my next best friend. Make him feel welcome and all of that." Hadrian then drops into silence again as he stoically looks between Arcelia and Ian, eyebrows raise. Soon enough his attention drifts around the table once again until he finds Quenia and Lucita, "In regard to your earlier statement about potentially hosting some charitable endeavors? I can't urge you strongly enough to give consideration to enlisting the aid of the Whisper House. They are, after all, one of the oldest bodies of diplomatic and stylistic experts among the Compact." Though Quenia's declaration receives a firm nod from Hadrian before he states rather simply, "Then welcome aboard, Marquessa Quenia. I do appreciate your willingness to serve the people."

Then Hadrian's attention drifts back to Mira. He considers her for a long moment before he smiles a little, "I like your fire. That's why, as I said, you have been promoted. You're going to act as one of my advisors. We'll meet to discuss these ideas you have, hone them, and make them better. Agreed?" Hadrian considers the Matessi lawyer for a moment before he looks away from her once again. It would seem that he just assumes that it's agreed. Finally his attention turns back to Ian and Hadrian adds, "Are you ready for our little crawl across the city in a few days? I hope you're been preparing yourself. Make sure to visit the shrines the day ahead and ask for good health. Possibly a second stomach too. At least temporarily. Also...bring your tea. Yeah. You don't want any unexpected lordlings."

Then Hadrian's attention drifts to Arcelia. Her words are met by a nod before he adds to the conversation between Mira and Arcelia, "It's a loose plan in this stage. It's not a bad plan, it's not even an unrealistic plan. It's only a rough plan. I imagine if we were to put due consideration into it, we could find an appropriate middle ground."

Mira purses her lips, looking just a *little* indignant. But she recognizes the statement for what it is and she bows her head, acquiescing to Hadrian's request. She nods to Arcelia as well, acknowledging her concerns, "Of course... But they are not *all* elderly, nor young, nor frail. I believe many will leap at the chance, should we provide it." She glances quickly back at Hadrian, sidelong, "...After the idea is fine-tuned, of course." Then, to Merek, she nods a bit as well, murmuring more quietly, "Of course, Mssr. Black. I meant to say, 'in addition to' the Knights. Not completely replacing them."

Ian nods solemnly when introduced. With forced cheerfulness. As Hadrian's next best friend. Like this is the most rational thing for a person to say, and the most rational way in which to say it.

Lucita says, "Clothing, healer supplies, things with which to equip a kitchen, tools, all will require a helping hand extended if they have lost everything." She gently interjects into the flow of conversation enough to show she is following what is being said and contributing an opinion. "They have potential to be self sustaining if helped to start." She smiles as her cousin is accepted with the group and murmurs. "I will remember to contact the Whisper House. Thank you for recommending them.""

"Perhaps so, but most of them can't fight for themselves and cannot establish themselves. That is the entire point of what the ARRG is doing. We are providing those that cannot help themselves with the assistance to start new lives. It is our duty and responsibility to see that these people are protected and well off." Arcelia offers Mira a warm smile. "It is part of my job to see to it that living arrangements are fair for them. Throwing them into a situation like that... I'm not sure I'm fond of the idea." She motions to Hadrian. "But it is something worth considering anyways. But originally the idea was to put them in the protection of already established settlements. Changing that changes our game a little. Which is fine but it is not something we are presently prepared to handle."

"There may be those who, if given a choice, would rather take risks than feel helpless." Ian offers this in a neutral tone to no one in particular, so it's not clear whose argument, if any, he's supporting. Maybe he's just saying a thing.

Mira glances over and smiles at the unexpected chime in from Ian, giving him a thankful nod. "I think people are quite a bit stronger and braver when they are fighting for something they can make their own, rather than something spoon-fed to them."

Quenia quietly speaks to Lucita a moment or five while others are still debating what can and can't be done for the refugees. She nods to Hadrian, "Glad to be a part of such a great cause," she tells him, then grows quiet again as she listens to Arcelia and Mira speak.

Lucita looks toward Hadrian after a softly whispered exchange to Quenia. "Music has been my primary focus prior to moving here a short time ago. I lack knowledge, contacts, and skills that Lady Quenia can contribute but if you wish me to try to assist in some way, am also willing to help."

"Music? Sounds like an opportunity to host a musical charity event. We could even find you a co-host, if you'd be more comfortable with that," Hadrian remarks with a nod toward Lucita before he adds, "We happily accept your offer, of course." Then Hadrian's attention drifts back to Quenia and he offers her a thankful nod. Finally his attention back to Ian, Arcelia, and finally Mira. He considers the trio for a long moment before he quietly remarks toward Ian, "You're supposed to be my best friend. Get on my side or get out of the way...", he shakes his head however following his statement before he continues, "...just kidding. A best friend is only as good as the truth they are willing to speak to you. Welcome aboard to the best friend club." Hadrian's attention drifts back to Mira before he gives her a nod and then to Arcelia as he remarks, "I think this is a matter that won't be resolved in a single night. You are, of course, welcome to speak of it at length. But it may be a bit more ideal for the two of you to take a few days, come up with a solid plan of action, and then present it to each other. It doesn't even need a full, in depth plan. Just enough so that we can place them aside one another and give each due consideration. How does this sound? I'd even add that you could consider adding Lord Estaban to those very same talks, as he's quite martially skilled and experienced. He could provide some insights."

"Oh, I don't think they need to be spoon fed everything but not placed into danger. They are expected to fight for their new lives in that they must make their own way once we have settled them into establishments. But the thing to realize is that once these refugees are established in their new homes they are not ours any longer. They become citizens of the lands they are set in. We cannot dictate their lives too much and in that they have to learn to swim. It is just... we are providing them with the means to learn the skills." Arcelia is very calm while she is talking about this. It is simply a pleasant debate and she's not looking at all upseet with the conversation. "Ultimately there is a lot of politics involved in this either way but the point is to help them become independant and productive members of society. They already have something to fight for. They are fighting for freedom, they are fighting for family..." She motions through the air with her hands. "But the fact remains that we'd have to provide them with either training to protect themselves, which is possible, or otherwise give them a way to protect them from Shav raids and similar." Then Hadrian speaks, she nods, and seems to be willing to drop it for now.

Ian is quick to back off, even under the very slight pressure of Hadrian's joking reproof. "It wasn't my intention to take a side, Marquis," he demurs. "I was only relating my own experience."

Mira murmurs quietly, but loud enough to be heard by all as offers a little support to Ian, "Well *I* thought it was a good sentiment." But she smiles at Hadrian, just a little impishly after her brief address to Ian, as she turns to look at Arcelia, nodding. "Of course, all good points. And there will be a need for many trades in these new towns we'll be establishing. Not just lumberjacks and laborers, but tavern owners, stablers, craftsmen and cooks." She glances back up at Hadrian, eyebrows high, "All kinds of people will be needed." She does not, however, comment on the suggestion that Estaban be included in the discussion.

Estaban leans back in his seat listning and watcing as everyone speaks its what he likes to do at big meetings

"Don't take it seriously. I *welcome this*. I want this. I need those involved in ARRG to be thinking like and debating this," Hadrian answers Ian with a faint shake of his head, "This is not disapproval. This is purely me saying: you all have great ideas. Now make them perfect. Work together. Build something that will serve these people. Not me. Not yourselves. Them," Hadrian remarks with another nod of his head. That, he seems, is at least adamant about.

Quenia rises from her seat, and says to their hoses. "Thank you again for this meeting. It was very informative. I will think long on what was discussed tonight, and talk to Lucita to see what we can come up with regards to other ideas on how to offer aid. For now though, we both have somewhere else to be, so if you'll excuse us?" she asks politely.

Lucita gives a warm smile to the others and rises to follow Quenia as she cues her need to talk with her. "It was a pleasure meeting all of you and listening to the wonderful ideas, the purpose all are sharing.

Ian turns his attention, and the full force of his electric gaze to Mira once the meeting has been adjourned. (It's adjourned, right?) "Can I offer you a suggestion?"

Estaban looks to Hadrian, "Marquis Hadrian, after wull you have time for some words once we are done?"

"I do have one more thing to add." Arcelia offers to the room. "The Gyre is going to be upon us in a mere few months. The ships are needed now, the lumber is needed now. New establisments take time to build. Time we don't have." She offers them a smile.

"Will people please please stop using that full name," Merek asks, with a small sigh, and rubs his face a bit. "Sorry, just, don't. It's very dangerous to name."

Mira lazily folds her arms on the table, leaning forward a bit with a pleasant smile toward Ian. "Yes?" Her eyebrows lift, looking rather curious as to what he might say.

Mira blinks, shocked like someone struck her at Arcelia's bold statement.

Quenia gives Arcelia a very quizzical look when this 'Gyre' thing is mentioned. She is quite possibly one of the few who is not in the know of what this is. She furrows her brow, and makes note to ask about it later, and also makes note of Merek's reaction about it being dangerous to name. She hmms to herself, and then turns to leave after they've announced their exit.

Quenia and Lucita both receive a polite bow of Hadrian's head before he begins to rise up to his full height. It's slow going with one arm in a sling. He does however offer his own farewell, "Thank you for coming Marquessa Quenia and Lady Lucita. I do appreciate your willingness to work for the people." Hadrian's attention drifts about the table for a moment before he adds, "I believe we've reached a reasonable conclusion. Get out there and see what can be done to draw in support that we can in turn funnel toward House Thrax. They are in need at the moment and I would like to say we've at least done *something* assist them. Beyond that? Consider this meeting closed and I hope that you all have safe travels home." Then Hadrian's brilliant green eyes drift to Mira, he openly winks in her direction, and then onward to Estaban does his attention travel before he rocks forward on the balls of his feet and comments back to Estaban, "I have a few minutes at present, but I will need to be going very shortly. I have another matter to attend to before the evening is up."

Ian finishes his drink. He's managed to nurse the same drink for the entire meeting, sipping every now and again. "A good first step to advancing your ideas might be to talk to the refugees themselves and find out what they want for themselves."

Lucita leaves, following Quenia.