The Duchy of Lorraine

[KnightnDay]

"With respect, Gaeten, I believe the expense is not unreasonable. 2,500 florins will be delivered to the treasury upon the fall of the place. The expense of these mercenaries does not come without cost, it is true. They can be disbanded as soon as militia can replace them in garrison if need be.

As far as a siege goes, there should be no need for that. Our spy should be able to position himself to assist us in opening the gate when the time comes. That itself will save the lives of some of our men. And no one in this house is fearing the shedding of blood. We all know that is expected. But it is prudent to use every tool at our disposal to accomplish our task and preserve our forces where possible.

Also, the threat of Metz does not come from rebels, it comes from the empire to the east. If there is any opportunity for the Kaiser to take such a vital location, he will pounce on it, you can be sure of that.

In any case, it seems that Bertin sees things as I do, and your position is clear enough. And I do appreciate your candor and I respect your opinion. Perhaps the Duc can speak to where he sees matters? "