'Straight to the point. Straight to the point. God, I wish I had my notes.' Florian inhaled deeply, trying to keep his spine straight and his voice steady.
"First," he began, eyes flicking to each of the dukes seated before him, "I would like to take this time to thank the dukes for being here. I don't think I've had the chance to express how grateful I am that you still chose to attend—despite your... grievances."
He offered them a small, polite smile. Controlled. Practiced. At least he remembered that part of the speech. A solid opening—measured and respectful.
But then—
"We all came here to have our problems solved, not to hear you speak. Don't misunderstand."
The voice sliced through the tension like a knife.
Alexandrius. His tone was cold, dismissive, and loud enough to draw a few surprised glances.
Florian turned his head sharply, blinking once as he met the duke's sharp, condescending gaze.
Alexandrius smirked.
'He's doing it on purpose.'
