Best way to unwind.

Definitely.

Provides a nice break from plotting, too, over the next little bit. 

It's very important to maintain a balance. Keeps stress levels low.

Leaves them with refreshed minds and new eyes.

Indeed.

They are extremely unlikely to catch Harkon alone, as they did Valerica, which is the first problem.

How much of a pain is his court?

More so than the average vampire. He hoards knowledge, but does ensure his loyal servants are as deadly as possible.

Hm. Average vampires haven't been an insurmountable problem before... She's guessing separating Harkon from his court would be difficult, too...

He never does himself what he can order or manipulate someone else into doing.

Nod. "Can we use that against him? Either draw out his people, or get him into a trap somehow..."

"It'd have to be something he wanted enough to override his normal caution..."

"...I'd rather not use you as bait."

"I feel the same way."

Sigh. "The only other thing I can think of is the Elder Scrolls, but I think he's been sending minions after those so far..."

"Mm."

Nuzzle. "Then we'll just drain off his people, not try drawing him out."

"Okay."

"How many does he have, do you know?"

"Ten, last I knew, but at least a few maintain courts of their own elsewhere."

"As long as they're not present in the castle, I don't think we need to worry about them immediately."

"I don't think they would be."

"Then they can be a problem for later. Or never, if we finish the ritual fast enough."

"True."

Lean. "We might want to move relatively quickly on Harkon, too... Cut off some of his options..."