Under the vampire Lord's protection-Chapter 533: Full support

"I hardly see the issue," Lauden no longer paid the prince any attention and explored the meeting room around them.

"Well, it does not concern you either way," Cedric too paid the vampire no mind, seemingly sinking down a vortex only his eyes beheld, "And don’t touch that. It costs more than you could make in a century," referring to the man-sized, gold- gilded vase posted by one of the pillars holding the room together.

In response, Lauden merely chuckled, "Is it the gold you care for or the fact that you don’t wish for a vampire to lay a hand on it?"

But after a heavy sigh, Cedric had no time to form a reply as the way Lauden’s head snapped towards the doors seemingly grabbed his full attention.

Sure enough, a knock landed on the prestigious wood not long after that.

Cedric looked most annoyed but still answered, "Do come in," his voice blared across the room.

A man in armor appeared through the door. Well, nearly all in armor. It seemed a lot lighter than a regular knight’s or soldier.

"General Atticus!" Cedric’s tone indicated enthusiasm, but his body and face showed none.

The General bowed profoundly, "Your highness," his eyes never once straying towards Lauden, "May we have a moment to speak freely?"

The calm in which he spoke froze even Lauden’s blood in his veins which was a feat. Hair as dark as night, the black sheets fell and covered his ears and half his neck.

His eyes held not much light either, nearly as black as the void-adjacent shade a vampire could don.

He shared the same height as Lauden, but as a human, his body was clearly built for battle. A lot of work must’ve gone into sculpting down to the last muscle.

"I shall see myself out," Lauden made his way to the door but was interrupted by the prince.

"Don’t roam too far and keep your fangs to yourself. I’ll provide you all the blood you need later,"

"Understood," Lauden practically hissed.

He had nearly gotten all he wanted from that deal. All there was left was his share of Silas’ blood and he’d go back to Umbraria and take care of that other red headed bitch he left behind.

There was no need in getting up and arms with the humans.

So, he kept his cool and exited the room. However, thankfully for him and much to his advantage, the prince had omitted to light the black candle that blocked anyone from listening in on his conversations.

That was how the vampire found out that Reubon Sterling was heading there as they spoke.

"The tension at the borders is at an all-time high. There are accusations levied against your high self of plotting and the kidnapping of one most esteemed member of Umbrarian society," the so-called Atticus maintained a monotone voice throughout the entire sentence.

"Accusations or rumors? Because those two are quite different," a chuckle left Cedric’s pipes.

"Verging on accusations so far," after a pause the General continued, "Are we to prepare in case of an attack?"

"There will be no attack," The prince stated as a matter of factly, "They care more for their piteous peace than I could ever fathom," his tone shifted to a slightly higher... almost cheerful, "Will that be all? You could have sent a subordinate or even a servant to relay the message. So, do tell, what else do you have for me, my dear intrepidus warrior?"

"The other five Generals are decrepit and most loyal to your father, his highness the king,"

The gritting of teeth started. As small as it was, it still managed to reach Lauden’s ear from hallways of distance.

Considering neither the tone nor pitch of Atticus had shifted, it was safe to assume Cedric did the grinding.

"I, on the other hand, am closer in generation with your grace, the crown prince, but I hear he’s awake after so long in his coma. I simply wanted to let you know that you shall have all my support,"

Some shifting around, wincing of wood and light rustling of fabric indicated movement before all of it died down again. Null doubt, the prince adjusting his posture.

"Now, I assume that support comes with conditions," Cedric spoke slower as though weighing every word before expelling them.

"The slave...," it was subtle, but also the first time Atticus’ tone shifted, if only barely, "Have you decided what her fate will be?"

"Ah!" more movement and fabric rustling, "It depends on what you have in mind for our shiny new toy,"

"I’d like to spend some time with her without the others sticking their meat in her and I want her exactly as filthy as they left her body today,"

"Like I said, as the youngest of the Generals you...," Cedric trailed off momentarily, "You know what, have at it. After our meeting tomorrow she’s all yours for the entire day if you so desire,"

Another poor schmuck salivating over her... Under what star was this Arabella born that she garnered all of the attention she did without even trying.

"And you will have my unwavering endorsement," the sound of fabric cutting the air resounded, surely a sudden bow and tossing of cape, "I will add that the five others combined will stand no chance against me and the favor of the army. They never cared to cultivate respect among their troops,"

"And that shall be their downfall," with a sigh, the prince released the statement, "I’ll count on you to make sure everything is ready for tomorrow. I cannot wait to see their faces,"

What was coming the next day? What did he plan for... Whoever it was he plotted against?

Nevertheless, Lauden cared more for returning home with his price before the tensions between the countries rose too high to quell with words.

The last thing he needed was to be stuck with the maniacs that died to see him at peril.

Trust seemed to lack even among their own ranks. What they’d do to a vampire wasn’t something Lauden wished to find out.