“Very well,” the Baron said,”gentlemen, let’s have a seat.”

The lord, the noble, and the knight all took a place at the simple table nearby, shifting their weight gently as the rickety chairs freaked beneath them. The Baron cautiously eyed the legs of his chair for a minute before finally relaxing in full. The three of them now sat cross-legged and ready to begin their first little “meeting” with the Princess.

Baron Monticourt spoke first,”Well, Your Ladship, I suppose first you should know what resources and assets we have at our disposal. As Baron of Rosaldia, my political position and power alone can be of great benefit, obviously. I can also offer small amounts of financial support from my treasury, however this is quite limited, as I can’t afford to drain the coffers of my city. You understand of course. There are also several within my realm whom secretly support our cause; guard captains, scribes, city councilmen, lower lords and such. Their particular individual uses can make them invaluable agents in the future. I have actually been working to arrange meetings with other lords and nobles who I know have high discontent for Malva and her illegimate rule, to further our support.”

The Baron had hardly stopped to draw breath when Lord Cromley spoke up, leaning forward slightly as he talked,”I, M’Lady, am our factions primary financial supporter. The immense wealth from my silver empire can be used to fund our cause. We will need weapons and other certain items, which won’t be cheap. Not to mention that potential bribes and buy-outs can be assured to be expensive as well.”

The Baron, who had been listening to Cromley, turned back to Cecilia, adding,”He’s right. Lord Cromley’s fortune can take us far. He in fact holds contracts on several bands of mercenaries...”

“Which I will gladly direct to the Loyalists disposal,” Lord Cromley cut in,”after all, these men are sellswords of little question, as long as they’re paid well, they’ll do nearly anything I command of them. They’re not as desirable as loyal followers of heart, but we’ll have enough of those soon I believe.”

“Indeed,” the Baron affirmed,”and, Your Majesty, as for Sir Harper here, he will act as your bodyguard and companion on any ventures or trips you make. Your safety is his utmost responsibility.”

“A responsibility I will see to, even to the death.” Sir Harper said boldly, pressing his right fist to his heart and giving Cecilia a short nod.

“Good man.” Monticourt said, giving Harper and strong pat on his shoulder.

“Lord Monticourt,” Cromley said,”I believe that we should inform Princess Cecilia of our next course of action, ‘step two’ as she put it.” 

“Of course,” the Baron said with a nod, turning to Cecilia,”I next step, Your Highness, is diplomacy. We need to gather more allies before we take any direct action against the Queen. I have arranged a meeting for next week with three other men who I believe will be of great boon to our cause. And for that, Your Majesty, we will need your help.”