Kreyos, the knight commander

While Liandra felt pride from her recent actions, she understood that some could feel she intruded on their authority, and what if they decided to retaliate? She had never engaged in this kind of politics, but knew she was threading in murky waters.

Of all the ones there, perhaps the Knight Commander Kreyos was the one that could resent her the most. Liandra had no idea how he felt about the Nocternia Empire, what she did know was that while she was growing up she always felt afraid of Kreyos, **** and righteousness clung on him like a second skin. But she wouldnt learn anything just by staying on the sidelines.

"Knight Commander" She curtsied, avoiding his wolf eyes. "Princess Liandra, it was an impressive speech that you gave" He showed her greater respect, and took her hand when offered. "Thank you, Sir Kreyos" His eyes seemed tired "I confess I felt bad I couldn't discuss it beforehand with someone with military knowledge. Perhaps we could rectify it in the morning?"

"Only if you plan to start the day before dawn, Princess Liandra. I will survey our sea fleet tomorrow, and must depart with the tide" His tone was unapologetic. "Let's talk now, I am interested in what you have to say"

The two lingered while everyone else left. "Did I do well, Sir Kreyos?" The princess leaned against a clean table, while the commander took a seat. He seemed every bit the veteran strategist, one of the stalwart pillars that protected her kingdom.

The knight commander didn't answer at first. "Your words could have caused war, Princess. Our army is larger, but their so called free cities attracted much trade and powerful merchant houses. Coin could be used to hire enough mercenaries to topple our kingdom." The knight didn't spare the princess feelings.

"And this before their exotic weapons and foul sorcery..." The princess said, now feeling rather foolish "I didn't understand the risk, I could have caused the kingdom´s downfall"

"If you are going to play Statecraft, you should learn to think above mere rumor mongering. They do have some powerful weapons, yes, but our steel armors can withstand their technology, and our horses continue to be the sturdiest mounts in the world. As for sorcery... Our country is well protected by the Gods, and the fine mystical traditions we house. We have no reason to fear"

Liandra felt a certain tinge of deceit. She though about of everything Sir Kreyos said, and concluded "But despite the risk, you approve. You want their weapons." His face was hard, but Liandra though she could read him "You will train your sailors in the use of these new weapons. They are faithful to the royal house, not the nobles." He burst laughing

"When did you become so cunning, Liandra? I always took you for a naive child. But why do you think they are loyal to the royal line, rather then me?" The Knight was smirking, but Liandra had an answer for him.
"I am a child no longer, Sir Kreyos, and as I see it is irrelevant." His interest was definitely picked "I merely need to make sure I have your loyalty, right?"