Estinien has another proposal: with Estinien and Satznswys's might, they might be able to approach Nidhogg and slay him outright.
Estinien agrees, and assumes that if they can make contact with Iceheart, that she has similar diplomatic immunity from his wrath as well. Estinien cautions against being fully transparent with Aymeric, as what Alphinaud is proposing is tantamount to heresy.
With that settled, Tataru will obviously remain behind to act as liason with Alphinaud and Satznswys by linkpearl, if it is needed, as well as weave the cover story. The trio heads to the Temple Knight HQ to get Aymeric's cooperation.
Aymeric, obviously, is quite busy with preparing for a long siege, but he's happy to see Alphinaud all the same.
Alphinaud knows how to pique interest. He keeps his cards close to his chest, though, and only says that he's making an effort toward a peaceful solution, and asks that Aymeric not launch any preemptive strikes while the Scions work on their plan.
Estinien speaks as an advocate, and the two of them are friends, so that counts for something. The only option that the more hawkish elements in Ishgard propose offers little more than glorious death to their knights and fighting men and women.
Aymeric agrees, and then thinks that the Warrior of Light and the Azure Dragoon sallying forth together to face the dread wyrm Nidhogg has a poetic tenor to it, and gives his blessing.
Estinien is amused at this turn, and Alphinaud is ready to begin immediately. The longer they delay, the more time the hawkish war advocates have to sue for preemptive strikes.
Meanwhile, in the chamber of the Heavens Ward...
Thordan, what are you doing?