{Third Person}
On the other end, the response came immediately, laced with urgency and respect. "My Lord—"
Zarek let out a soft, almost amused breath. "You are an important official of this kingdom," he said, his voice easing into something almost benevolent. "There is no need to be nervous."
A small, awkward chuckle followed from the other end.
Zarek leaned back slightly, his fingers tapping lightly against the armrest. "I assume you witnessed what happened tonight."
There was a small pause from the other end, then, carefully, "Yes… My Lord."
Zarek's gaze darkened slightly, though his tone remained measured. "Tell me… what do you think of it?"
The hesitation this time was shorter. "It was… inappropriate. The Alpha Prince's actions this time were extreme."
Zarek smiled faintly. "Extreme?" he repeated. "In front of foreign delegates? At a state banquet?"
He let the words settle before continuing, quieter now. "And yet… His Majesty still shows him leniency."
The bait was set.
