'Every one of your actions is judged by the people around you. You say all people care about is money. That certainly has some truth in it. But also important are trust and respect. How is one to make business with someone from whom you know that he tries as much as he can to use it to nothing more than his own benefit, betraying his partner at the first opportunity just on a whim, as he feels there is more coin in it? How can anyone conduct trade if this mentality prevails? Our society is based on minimal trust. In a world as you describe it, there is no order, no safety, no place to live. It is treason towards mankind. There isn't only justice in the next world, also in this one. And I am a man who holds true to his word.' He readied his weapon.
Da Lusari approached him, trying to convince him otherwise. 'To become a good general, you will have to learn to listen, to read your surroundings with all attention. I am bringing this man to a fate he deserves, a fate he has sought with his own actions. I am acting based on my principles, and will not break my word in any circumstance.'
'This isn't about anger. About justice. It will not leave you as broken as you say, for a merchant like you doesn't need both hands. But each time you will want to use this one, you will have to think. Was it worth it? Should I continue as before?' Louis made a short pause. 'May this forever remind you of your wrong deeds.' The blade swings down, and clearly cuts off Saint-Pierre's hand. The medicus immediately runs towards him to deal with the wound. Satisfied, Duke Montségur thanked his seconds, inviting da Lusari to his Valencian residence after the ball, and returned into the great hall.
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Few of interest had happened at the ball while he was busy. Good enough. He attended to the little business he had to do and enjoyed the rest of the ball. Of course, the realm had to keep a strong army. In his opinion, Hispania should continue to improve the quality of its army, either with more focus on the aristocracy, the offense, or the defense. The princess should be married to France to improve the current relations.
((Clara's Marriage:
France
Idea 1:
Aristocracy
Idea 2:
Offensive
Idea 3:
Defensive
[Duke, General, Chamberlain]))
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He also went to the Count of Córdoba to address matters of his niece. 'As you might know, Count Adam, my niece Sophie Béatrice is interested in a marriage with your person. She is not the youngest anymore, so if you want to accept, it would be wise to make a quick decision should she bear you any children. I wouldn't be concerned should you decline, if you fear that.'