"Relax, I don't care for formalities." Rui gestured for him to return to his seat as he took the one opposite him. "I got here just now, when you were just getting done scolding one of my half-brothers or half-sisters for soliciting your support for the throne war that has already begun brewing in the shadows."
The minister's expression grew embarrassed rather than fearful, a reaction Rui found interesting. "I'm sorry you had to see me lose my composure, Your Highness. But that was the seventh solicitation that I've received this morning. It's truly disgraceful. And for the same reason…"
His eyes grew serious.
"…I'm going to have to refuse Your Highness's solicitation as well."
His tone was fearless. Like the Royal Secretary, he didn't give a damn if Rui was the most powerful man on the continent.
Rui raised an eyebrow as a small smile cracked at the edge of his mouth. 'My father was a really good judge of people.'
