Lazarus bowed deeply before Gabriel. "Your Highness, I beg your indulgence for my son's behavior. He was heavily intoxicated last night and acted without reason. He is profoundly sorry for the offense caused to Karmen and Miss Aisha."
He shot a sharp, commanding look at Eryx, signaling him to begin his rehearsed apology.
Eryx stepped forward, his head bowed, though his posture lacked genuine humility. "I offer my deepest apologies, Your Highness," he muttered. "However, I must say, this unfortunate event occurred because of your Beta. He came to the bar and struck me repeatedly without provocation. Most of the damage to my face has mended, save for this bruise at the corner of my mouth." He gestured to the faint mark, a pathetic attempt to play the victim.
"If you felt wronged, you should have reported his conduct to me," Gabriel said. "Instead, you chose to have a ten-wolf ambush to settle a personal grudge."
