Alec's Meeting [Done]

[Master Onike]

In the wide, open space of Consecration Hall, Alec’s footsteps seemed unnaturally loud. Each step of his boots seemed to echo throughout the room, and even the quiet rustle of his council robes seemed to be an intrusive cacophony.

Still, Blackthorn crossed the room in long, confident strides. Absently, he patted his maces at his side, hidden as always under the folds of his clothing. Though he wasn’t sure why he’d been called to the Hall today, he assumed it had something to do with the rapidly increasing number of barbarian raids. The old part of Blackthorn hoped fervently that Grey’s plan to deal with it had something to do with him and a lot of fire. The newer, more sensible parts of Alec’s consciousness hoped it was just a chance for old friends to catch up.

Alec sighed, I’m getting too old for this, he thought. Never had the big man considered what a burden age would be on his body. Still, fire burned as true within him as ever before, and if Grey had need of him in the field, into the field he would go. Elacia gave a quiet chirp of agreement from her standard position on his shoulder.

Spotting Grey standing near one of the Hall’s many pillars, Alec gave the leader a quick nod, and bow and crossed the room to stand before his old mentor. “You wanted to see me, Grey?”

[Master William]

Councilor Cordan Grey turned to see his old friend behind him. "Alec, thank you so much for meeting me on such short notice." Grey returned the bow, and motioned with his hand for Alec to walk beside him. "As you might've guessed, I've asked you here about the raids. They're increasing. We've seen more this week than the entire last month. I'm worried that maybe they're planning something big, and I don't like it." Grey stopped, thinking through what he had to say next.
"Before I tell you what I hope to do, I'd like to hear your point of view. You have experience like many on the Council do not, your help is invaluable."

[Master Onike]

Blackthorn paused a moment, considering the question. "Well, the raids are increasing to an alarming rate," he said. "It's important for us to focus not just on defense but on offense as well. If we get to lax in our own attacks, the raids could overwhelm us by sheer attrition. I'd recommend readying some counter attacks of our own. If we can take back some of our lost territory, we'll be able to increase our own morale and put a dent in the barbarians' ability to constantly raid us."

Alec stopped again, his brain now fully focused on military matters, his own trepidations regarding entering battle once again falling by the wayside. He crossed the hall to a map spread on a nearby table. "I recommend we create an offensive force consisting of Von Guards in the front ranks and supporting Embari to back them up with magic. We'll divide it into three primary groups and push here, here and here." Alec gestured at the map as he spoke. "While the two side groups push out and flank for a pincer on the main barbarian forces here, I'll take the main group in a frontal assault. The barbarians may be dangerous but they can't win a war on three fronts."

Alec pointed at the two flanking groups, "You'll have to back these up with some serious firepower for the plan to work though, it's completely dependent on their ability to wipe the barbarians in their path in order to make our showdown with the main force a sure win." Never start a fight you can't win. It was the first lesson taught in military academies and while not necessarily honourable and glorious, Blackthorn had to agree.

"If we can take those territories we'll be in a favourable military position and the raids should become at least slightly less intense for the time being. I honestly think it's our best shot."

Alec looked up from the map at Grey, slowly nodding his head at the strategy. "What do you think, old friend?"

[Master William]

Grey listened intently, watching all his old friends subtle hand motions and gestures. That was how Grey knew Blackthorn was passionate, he said what needed to be said not only with his words, but his body language too. He'd thought long about this.
"My friend, it is clear that your battle strategies are as sound as ever. I will send word to have a group prepared for you as soon as I return. Thank you coming out to see me." Grey smiled honestly, putting a hand on his old friends should.
Glancing over to the large doorway, Grey noticed a group of children standing there, looking expectantly at him. He sighed, turning to faec his companion again.
"I see they finally found me," he gestures over to the doorway with a nod, and laughed. "I suppose I should take my leave then my friend, good luck. My spirit is with you." With that, Grey turned towards the door, Nashiro following close behind.

OOC Note: Well done Onike, you're free to RP wherever you like.