The First Prince waited for no second further to resume the Audience. Although he had contributed to the delay, His Highness wanted no more of the Count's issue. The Emperor still had to sort out hundreds of requests.
"Duke Gertrude, let's proceed."
"As you wish, Your Majesty."
The Duke immediately went back to his position beside the Emperor. Meanwhile, Vhelian had yet to straighten out his emotions. Rather than having a tumultuous mind, Vhelian was having a difficult time deciding what to feel from either of the two: regretfulness or indignation.
He knew that he shouldn't act out in front of the Imperial Family, with the Duke present to boot. But because he was young, suppressing his emotions was a skill he hadn't mastered. The urge to say what was on his mind began to prevail over civility.
