Gaius's expression, already smooth with stoicism, somehow manages to flatten out further. Really, we're doing this? "The balance of power between Valdeaulin and I exists in a skew that you do not realize. He's merely exerting his power, knowing there will be no consequence for his troublemaking. To remind me of debts owed, and to not grow leisurely or content with the work. You're just his pawn in the game."

He picked up his letters again, and prepared to resume reading them. "Surely, you're man enough to rise above such small, petty politicking. Don't let him drag you into this mummery for his own amusement."