He gives her a special task...

"Well... what matter do you wish to speak with me privately?"

"Well you already know from Enzo's report it appears your cousin John is quite... fond... of his sister Alexa." Frederick says with a grin as they head down the hallway to the courtyard stairwell.

"I heard she could hardly walk when Enzo led her to the carriage." Aria says with a grin before asking, "But what does that have to with our plans...?"

Pausing for a moment, Frederick whispers in her ear, "I received word from my physician that Alexa is now carrying something of John's..."

"Really...? So soon?" Aria gasps with surprise before giggling, "Mmmm just like his father."

"Yes... and it certainly makes her useful as leverage... not to mention more agreeable to our demands given her.... **** condition...." He says deviously as they continue towards the door to the courtyard.

"Using your own pregnant neice...? You have no limits father..." Aria says with a hint of envy.

"I have never been accused of being kind..." He replies with a grin, pausing at the door as Aria asks,

"Shall I fetch her after you depart?"

"No.... All in good time." He says deviously. "For now ride south with your cavalry and pay Lord Richard a visit... I think he should learn the consequences of his actions."

"As you command father." Aria says, smiling as he caresses her cheek.

"Had you been born a man... You always were a natural leader." He says proudly.

"When you pass on father I'm certain Silva won't rule long..." Smiling suggestively.

"I suppose not..." He says grinning.

Mounting his horse he adds, "I will send news of our victory... after your task gather whatever men we can spare... we will need them."

"Consider it done father and good luck." Aria replies with a bow.

"I make my own luck!" He shouts with a smile before riding off.