Chapter 122: Next Measure
Caius was late to arrive at the assembly hall for the meeting, and this was a deliberate act—his reasoning being that he wanted to give the Lords time to bicker among themselves, as that would reduce the bickering when he arrived.
Prince Rylen had tried to convince him that this wasn’t such a good idea and that the faster they could get to the meeting, the faster they could discuss the issues. Caius didn’t believe that. He was willing to do whatever he could to see the Lords less.
"Your Highness," echoed through the space as Caius walked in with Rylen behind him. His eyes scanned the lords in attendance.
Caius didn’t say anything, nor did he acknowledge their greetings as he walked to his seat. He sat down, sitting leisurely as he stared at the Lords. Even though he was the one seated, it felt to them as though he was staring down at them.
"Your Highness," Lord Leopold said with a sneaky smile, "I guess even you had a hard time waking up this morning. I apologize for keeping you up so late."
Caius met the Lord’s clear eyes. It was clear what he was trying to do. Lord Leopold was trying to shift the blame onto himself and prevent the rest of the Lords from complaining about how late Caius had arrived.
The only reason Caius didn’t hate this tactic was because he didn’t want them to waste unnecessary time complaining about why he had just arrived.
"I have given as many details as I can to the Lords. A summary, if you’d say—"
"This has gone on for too long," Lord Charles yelled out, interrupting the rest of Lord Leopold’s words. His palms hit the table with a loud sound.
Caius’s attention shifted. Lord Charles was one of the difficult Lords. He was of the younger generation and had more energy than Caius could condone. His old father, however, had a decent influence over Velmount, and it was this the son rode on. Caius couldn’t stand him most time.
"I agree," Lord Nicholas supported.
"Thank you, Lord Nicholas," Charles said. "We have only been reacting to Galdoris’s moves. It’s time we make a move ourselves."