The many outbursts around the table brought a faint crease of irritation to Silzard's brow, which was quick to fade as he regained his composure. Many of his house members seemed to take his reticence as permission to speak for him, but in truth he was simply considering the extent of the transgression and the best way to respond. "[color=ed1c24]While I do not understand your choice to keep such unreliable retainers, I am not offended. If your thief is prowling my estate, then [i]Ryder[/i] will apprehend him shortly,[/color]" he stated, saying her name loud enough that she would be able to hear him from wherever she was lurking.

"[color=ed1c24]As for your suspicion regarding the safety of my food, I will take offense to that,[/color]" he continued calmly, showing no outward sign that he was truly offended. "[color=ed1c24]I'm wounded that you would think House Tosen capable of ruining what little food is available in a time of hardship, but if you insist.[/color]" Grabbing his utensils, Silzard placed a sample from each of the dishes in front of him onto his plate, and ate them with grace and alacrity. "[color=ed1c24]Now, I trust that settles any doubts and we can continue as planned?[/color]"