Cromley’s Mouth slightly parted, a small jibbery noise slipping from his throat, as he was caught off guard by Cecilia’s blunt rejection toward his mercenary aid. While not angered or upset, he was slightly confused. Surely she realized that she would need more than the protection of a single knight! Not to mention an army on hand if some immediate danger were to rise anytime soon. He opened his mouth to speak when Baron Monticourt abruptly raised his right hand toward Cromley, indicating silence, which resulted in an indignant stare from Cromley at Monticourt.

The Baron gave Cromley a warning expression, causing Cromley to shrink back like a turtle into it’s shell. Monticourt then turned to Cecilia with a softened expression, saying,”Your Highness, I understand your feelings regarding aid from mercenaries. I myself aren’t very keen on sellswords. But still, though honorless and strictly driven by money, we are still in need of some kind of protectorate military force. Capable as he is, I doubt Sir Harper here could protect you against an entire platoon of Malva’s men come to arrest you.”

Harper gave a sideways grin at no one in particular, his bleach mustache arching slightly. 
Monticourt continued,”I understand, a true ruler wishes to be backed by loyalty, not those out for their own gain. But Your Highness, right now you just haven’t the adequate following for such a leisure. We would have to gain more support.”

Monticourt paused for a minute, in which Cromley took advantage to speak once more, though his tone was rather submissive compared to earlier,”You wouldn’t have to rely on them for long, M’Lady, just long enough until we secured further support. And they’d never have to know who you were. They’re the type to not ask questions, so they wouldn’t know anything, as we wouldn’t tell them.”

The Baron gave a slight nod and concluded,”Ultimately though, it’s up to you Your Ladyship. If you truly don’t want this, the mercenaries I mean, then we’ll close the book on it and forget it. Though personally, I would recommend it. But, it’s your decision.”

Cromley gave a rather hesitant nod, while Harper simply raised his eyebrows and turned his gaze rather casually across the room.