"There are too many forces in this world for you to fight alone. You must make allies for the sake of your own safety."

She's already nodding, but you press on anyways. "Even if we gave a sword to every man and woman of the kingdom, we would still be outnumbered if all the other kingdoms decided to join forces and attack us. If you look at the numbers, it is impossible for us to fight any war alone. You are the Princess of Amora, but that does not mean you are invincible. There will be a target on your back, and you will need friends to watch out for you. We must make allies before they realize how **** you really are."

"Of course," she says, but there's a shiver that runs down her spine at the thought. A nineteen year old girl on the throne? She knows exactly how precarious her situation is, and your words only emphasize it. "We can't defend ourselves alone." And you know how important it is to place her in this **** state of mind if you are to gain more influence over her. She has to feel unsafe even in her own house, untrusting of anyone but you. {if whiteDress == 1}She subconsciously looks down at her exposed cleavage, as if her clothing already makes her feel that sense of vulnerability.{endif}

Rosalia lifts an imperious hand, and the hall falls silent. The general and the diplomat turn their attentions back to the throne. "I have made my decision," says Rosalia. "I see the wisdom in our general's words, but Lady Gladys is right. We must have allies and neighbors for our own protection. She has my full permission to acquire the necessary funds to bolster our embassies and diplomatic staff once more. The world must come to realize that friendships with us can be mutually beneficial. Fear will not help as as much as friendliness can." The gentle naivete to her words that brings cheers from the crowds who feel reassured by their monarch's benevolence. The nobles, however, are a little quieter. They are the ones who profit off the manufacture and sale of weapons and supplies.

Both Tarres and Gladys bow - the lady is too diplomatic to let any pleasure reveal on her face, but the general is visibly disappointed. "Many thanks, your highness," says Gladys. "Our diplomats will make you proud, I promise it."

"A wise decision, princess," you whisper, further cementing your control over her.