Cyrdic would have loved to have spoken military matters, particularly with the Duke. Enrik was known for being an effective tactitian and above all, a fierce soldier. However, Cyrdic's initial attention was on the Elf that had just kissed Camilla's hand. He only afforded a glance in their direction, but his look wasn't exactly one of approval. He really needed to work on his jealousy at some point. [i]This is why most of our Elder friends are Dwarfs[/i], he thought to himself. Then brought his attention back to the Duke who waited expectantly. 

"I have served in the Empire for many years." Cyrdic confirmed, squaring his powerful shoulders. The Mercenary could see a few of the courtly ladies gazing at him intently as he spoke, then shooting glances at Camilla. He was a bit too dense to realize he might not the only jealous person in the court. "The winter won't make it easy on them, but I believe we would be foolish to think it would do our work for us. Unless the Tzarina sees fit to aid her magics and make the winter even more harsh, I believe we must attack before they have gained sufficient strength."

"Leave the walls!?" One of the noblemen asked, aghast. One look showed Cyrdic that the man had probably never been a soldier in his life, nor had any job that his father had not offered him. A dark chuckle was heard from Rishnekov, smiling through his black goatee. "I see your strategy is not perceived as wise by some, herr Richter." He said. 

"Are the heathens not in bowshot?" Gilvinus the elf asked cooly, obviously attempting to not appear haughty but still giving off that very aura. Indendre's attention was still on Camilla, though whatever he was saying was drowned out by the conversation. Even Cyrdic's hearing could only catch glimpses. Duke Enrik gave a grim smile. "No, High one. Our bows are not like yours. They are powerful, but compact for horseback riding and the like." 

Cyrdic had to chuckle himself. He half expected the Elf to think the Duke would simply say their bows were not as good as the Elvish ones, but he gave a practical reason for that, that the Elf accepted gracefully. "However, you could be right, herr Richter." The Duke continued. "Perhaps attacking is of the right course?" He shared a look with Rishnekov, who raised an eyebrow and replied himself with. "You know of my opinion, my lord." 

"Well perhaps you could try to convince herr Richter of what you so try to convince me of, eh?" 

Rishnekov thought for a moment, hesitating as if unsure. But soon he gained a confidence that was almost menacing. "Certainly. Come herr Richer, let us speak on the Balcony where we can talk without interruption..." 
[@Penny]