Chapter 117 - 118
As Alistar observed the only of his three uncles that he cared about, it became apparent to him that Caedmon’s temper had reached a rare limit. While he would normally deal with any snide or derogatory remarks from his brothers with quick wit and tactful deflections, he now snapped back in tones of increasing exasperation. These responses were entirely aimed at Daniel, who seemed to have a habit of criticising almost anything that Caedmon did or didn’t do. Interestingly enough, Alistar could sense frequent flare-ups of swordsman’s aura from the younger duke whenever Caedmon happened to make a retort or a disapproving comment, which told Alistar two things. The first that was his uncle Daniel had poor control over his temper and thus his swordsman’s aura, and the second was that he had an incredible amount of the unique energy within him.
What had they been talking about before dinner that had left them in such sour spirits? His older uncles, he could understand, but Caedmon?
"What? Nothing else to say?" snapped Daniel, who had just finished the last of his wine. "You’d do well to study up on basic manners the next time you find yourself hosting family." In a lower voice, he muttered, "What kind of lord doesn’t have a single female servant on the property?"
"I’ll admit," chimed in Edmun, who was looking at a roasted chicken leg with disapproval. "If this were Calei, I doubt our cooks would serve us such ordinary food. No offence, Uncle."
Although he said this, Alistar had noticed out of the corner of his eye that the exact type of chicken that the boy was talking about had seemed to be a favourite of his all throughout the meal. As evidence, his plate contained a large pile of chicken bones that had been picked clean in all areas.
"These carrots are too soft," muttered Calum, looking at his father with a nod. "I prefer when there’s a crunch to them."
The other brother poked at some leftover broccoli. "And these vegies are too hard. Softer ones are much more enjoyable."
"I can boil them if you like," offered Mr. Albeck, rolling up one of his long, drooping sleeves as if to follow up on his words. "It’ll only take a moment."
The boy rolled his eyes and proceeded to finish off the rest of his broccoli.