"Regent Aurelia! We wish to request the crown to kickstart our operation." The older gentleman spoke, his head bowed deeply in reverence.
This might be the only chance for them to gain the funds to start their guild.
So many talented tradesmen have been exploited and used by nobility; it was his wish to start an organization that would protect their interests.
For far too long were the exploited and taken advantage of.
While Aurelia was known as 'Princess of Fools', she was rather liked by common people due to her kindness, despite her overly lustful nature making her unsuitable for the throne.
"What is your name?" Aurelia demanded, her tone strict as taught by Raguel.
David had heard that Aurelia was soft and unassuming, and yet now she felt more like gazing into the sun itself.
She was protected by a single insanely powerful demihuman, who, by his expression, served without question.
'Was her reputation a lie?' It made sense, many people hid their true nature.
And yet that made David worry beyond measure.
What if she were as ruthless as the king?
He gritted his teeth, he had to do this for his fellow artisans. "We are willing to submit to any demands the crown may have if it ensures funding for us."
Aurelia lifted her hand, covering the bottom half of her face.
A soft giggle escaped between her fingers, "There is no need to be afraid, David."
She sat up and stretched her arms forward, "I was always on your side. This Kingdom needs to protect the interests of the common man."
David widened his eyes, face in disbelief.
Was he hearing her correctly? Did a royal just say they needed to protect the interests of the common man?
'I must be dreaming.' For 10 years, he had been pleading with the king to support them, and yet he always refused, most likely due to the influence of nobility.
And now, daughter, everyone shunned sat as a regent, offering her support.
He bowed deeply, his head almost hitting the floor, "Thank you, your majesty!"
Aurelia crossed her arms, imitating Raguel. She pushed her chest slightly up before speaking loudly, "There is no reason to thank me! Craftsmen being protected will benefit everyone equally!"
In his eyes, a single tear formed; he couldn't believe it.
After so long, he would be allowed to form the guild.
"You may rise." Aurelia smiled warmly, her hand gesturing for David to stand up.
He hesitated for a moment, his fists clenched.
Was it truly fine to stand in front of a queen?
She was not a regent in his eyes, she was the queen.
How else to show respect for someone who would finally acknowledge the struggles of craftsmen and grant them the subsidy than to acknowledge them as the rightful heir?
'Nobility be damned, they keep exploring us!' He gazed towards Aurelia, so-called 'Princess of Fools'
He would make sure her likeness was engraved in his mind, and in the end, he would create a sculpture worthy of a queen.
"Your majesty! I wish to offer my deepest thanks to your generous self." He took a deep breath before continuing.
"Please allow me to create a wooden sculpture in your likeness." He exclaimed, his eyes gaining a mad glint.
Aurelia took a step back, her practiced speech cracking.
"Uhhh? Are you sure? I heard of your sculptures, Sir David. They take weeks to craft."
David's eyes glinted in maniacal light.
"That is the least I can do to make my wish come true after a decade! Please, if you have any requests, tell me." He smiled widely.
Aurelia slumped down onto the throne, deep in thought.
She was silent. "Is it possible to sculpt two people? I wish to be depicted in my future husband's arms."
David raised his eyebrow, "Of course, but it will require more time. Is that ok?"
"Of course, sir David! Artistry requires time. I am well aware."
"Would you be willing to visit my workshop soon to give me details about the appearance of your future husband?" He took a moment to gauge Aurelia's expression before continuing, "I would be able to sculpt your likeness, your majesty, but I do not know what the man you mentioned looks like." He spoke with an embarrassed expression, clearly trying not to offend his new patron.
Aurelia scratched her chin, deep in thought.
'Would Cedric be willing to have a sculpture of him holding me... I am sure he wouldn't mind! He is my husband after all, even Lady Raguel approved!' She nodded, her outside appearance not betraying her inner thoughts.
"I will come soon, I have to meet with more nobles and citizens before then. You may expect me tonight after sunset." She spoke confidently.
He fell to his knees quickly,"Thank you, your Majesty! I shall await your arrival!"
He bowed once before standing up, his steps gaining new vigor as he made his way out of the palace.
Aurelia sighed. She still had a long day ahead, but at least David was a pleasant person to be around.
"Ladios, what do you make of him?" She turned her head to one of her closest confidants.
Ladios took a moment, his face revealing nothing.
"I believe he is a virtuous soul, someone who may serve to further Father's mission."
"That's good... That's good." Aurelia smiled.
Silence.
"Do you think Cedric would mind if I commission a sculpture of him holding me in his arms?" She spoke seriously, this was important for her.
Having that depiction immortalized in wood would help her get over every difficulty.
"I do not think Father would mind. I feel you are allowed to do as you wish. Father trusts you." Ladios tilted his head, he did not see an issue with Aurelia's request.
'... I should have carvings of Jesus and Crosses too... Cedric would like that!' She nodded. Once she visited the workshop, she would commission small sculptures to impress her beloved.