Chapter 394: Griffin’s Past 5
Nikitin rose from his seat, followed by the others, as Prince Magnus’s voice resonated through the hall. Griffin also turned to face the prince, his head bowed in respect. The heavy thud of Magnus’s boots echoed in the suddenly silent room, the previous chatter dying instantly at his presence.
"I didn’t expect His Highness to grace us with his presence," Nikitin ventured cautiously.
"Nor did I," Magnus replied, his tone cold. "It seems you elites have plenty of time on your hands, enough to gather here and amuse yourselves by humiliating those of lower rank." His eyes flicked disdainfully toward three vampires, each standing beside a bowed slave. "And who gave permission for slaves to enter this hall?" Magnus demanded, his voice cutting through the air like a blade.
"Forgive us, Your Highness," the three vampires stammered in unison, lowering their heads further in shame.
Magnus turned slightly, addressing the man standing just behind him. "How long have I been away from Velaris, Tobias?"
"Almost six months, Your Highness," Tobias responded promptly, his voice steady.
"Six months," Magnus repeated thoughtfully, before his gaze returned to Nikitin. "And what do I find upon my return? A gathering of nobility with too much free time. You dismiss your behavior as mere ’fun,’ but your idea of entertainment is pathetic."
Magnus moved toward the seat Nikitin had vacated. Nikitin stepped aside, and the prince seated himself, exuding an air of casual dominance. "Royalty is above nobility," Magnus began, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "Perhaps I should refer to you all as ’dogs.’ What do you think of that title, Nikitin?" His voice was deceptively light, but the threat was unmistakable to ignore.
Nikitin’s face tightened, his lips pressed together in silent anger.