A Back Gate

[Gandalfus]

The Duke of Lancaster knew that access to the city of London was essential to securing this rebellion's success: the fickle populace of the capital, namely, the Lord Mayor, would undoubtedly determine if the city would shut its gates upon the encroaching forces of the rebellion. Thus, Lancaster sent in one of his own men, posing as little more than a common merchant, to seek out the house of London's Lord Mayor for a meeting with him.

[Lucius Malfoy]

It was rather quickly that the disguised merchant was able to find the Lord Mayor since London was almost seized by panic. Soldiers were seen throughout the city, preparing for a siege while shops and homes were abandoned as nobility and commoner alike fled the city for safer regions of the Kingdom. Word on the street of Lord Mortimer's surrender had caused this, making many lose faith and seek to save themselves from the sinking ship. Among the remaining persons was the Lord Mayor, a middle-aged man who was balding early and had a round face, though his body was not of a large physique.

At present, the Lord Mayor was found inspecting the granaries to ensure food was stocked up and accounted for if a siege were to happen. When he noticed the merchant, he merely glanced before continuing his work.

All of London is in a panic. Perhaps you should come back when this is all over, merchant... you can see that I am rather busy.

[Gandalfus]

"I come from the source of the panic, Sir." Stated the new arrival bluntly, opening a fold of his tunic to reveal a small swan badge. One of Lancaster's symbols. "My lord approaches the city with the entire realm behind him. And he has sent me to thee with an offer."

[Lucius Malfoy]

The Lord Mayor glances at the badge for a moment before scoffing slightly.

You honestly think I fall for that trick? I bet you work for Mr. Pace, my rival... trying to get me arrested by His Majesty's agents. I know he wants my job.

He hardly seemed convinced of who the merchant was.

How am I supposed to believe otherwise?

[Gandalfus]

"What? My Lord of Lancaster is in Northampton. You should know this." Replied the agent in disbelief at this... Small minded thinking. Typical merchants. "When he comes, he wants to find the gates open. To avoid bloodshed, you see."

[Lucius Malfoy]

The Lord Mayor pauses for a moment in his work, turning once more to look at the agent.

And what if I open the gates? Hm? What will happen to London? I have been at this job for almost twenty years now and I cannot let the city be treated as the Romans treated Jerusalem during Caesar's reign.

If all was favorable to the Lord Mayor's ears, he would certainly help the Duke of Lancaster.

[Gandalfus]

"Nothing. No blood spilt, no money stolen, all will be left as it was. And you'll have the ear of the most powerful man in all of England." He offered, hoping the promise of no looting or violence would be enough to sway the people of London to welcome Lancaster with open arms.

[Lucius Malfoy]

The Lord Mayor rubs his chin with his index finger, pondering upon the matter. Seeing how many easily left Richard in London made it quite clear that there was no love for the present ruler.

And having the ear of the King would ensure that Mr. Pace was put his place once and for all.

I will consent to it. When His Lordship's army arrives, the western gates will be open to him so that he may enter.

[Gandalfus]

"Excellent, sir." Nodded the agent, with a gap-toothed grin. "My Lord shall remember this. Now, I bid you good day, and wish thee good fortune in the trials to come."