Chapter 35: More to come
Ratragunda had not yet left despite Estefan’s blunt warnings and cold reception, the violet-robed envoy remained standing with his usual flamboyant composure.
"We truly wish for a truce." Ratragunda spoke, his tone softer now, even carrying a hint of pleading. "To spark another conflict with the government can only lead to this city’s destruction."
Estefan scoffed. "Don’t make me laugh. The only reason my father failed to resolve this was due to his own incompetence. He never realised how utterly corrupt the council had become and judging by your visit here, it seems killing those parasites created quite the ripple."
"You may be correct in that." Ratragunda replied with a low snicker. "Your father is definitely an idiot. If he weren’t, we wouldn’t be having this conversation."
The entire room tensed as the servants froze, glancing at one another as the audacity of the statement sank in. A commoner had just insulted the Duke of the realm, inside the Duke’s own palace, no less and in front of his own son. Several attendants discreetly prepared cleaning equipment, half-expecting blood to be spilled within the minute since they knew how violent Estefan could get.
But Estefan simply blinked and shrugged. "You think that would provoke me?" He replied, relaxed and unaffected by those words since he never did love or respect a father who had neglected him and his mother.
Ratragunda paused for a beat, then smiled wider. He now had confirmation of what many suspected of as Estefan and his father were not allies. There was no affection between them, no loyalty and no connection. It was a rift large enough to exploit as a fruitful advantage appeared in this meeting.
"I understand." Ratragunda said, his tone once more playful. "Still, should you ever wish to visit our establishments, you’ll receive the highest tier of pleasure in the house. I assure you, no payment will be required." He let his words linger. "I imagine someone like you would know how to enjoy such company."
Estefan didn’t respond immediately. There was a pause in the conversation, longer than before. Then calmly, he asked, "Is that all?"