Chapter 63

It was yet another peculiarity of this place. You could have been the master thrice over, but it was the one who held higher position that made decisions. Even at weddings, the newlyweds didn't retire to the resting room until it was permitted by the most titled among the guests.

Naturally, in informal settings, much more was allowed, just like among friends, but during the initial meeting, strict observance of formalities was always required. And again, their violation threatened not only embarrassment but also consequences. Everything had its price.

"So, an entire Orod army is after you?" When Alexander recounted his escape story from Toshala, the baron relaxed slightly. But as soon as he mentioned the Orod army and the battles that had already taken place here, the baron began to sit on pins and needles. Unfortunately, the reason for such behavior was hidden from the vampire. It couldn't even be explained to the baron's small retinue. In case of danger, the baron clearly managed to warn the duke, as well as had time to prepare the city for defense. Not wanting to dwell on mysteries, Alexander simply brushed aside the distracting thoughts. "That's right, we defeated the squad that caught up with us."

"That's very good news," the tone in which the phrase was said implied quite the opposite. "I must return and prepare the city for defense. When can I see you and your people in the city?"

Here it was! After an hour of secular conversation and telling fabricated stories, the moment for which all this was initiated arrived.

"Your grace, I do not plan to go to your city." The baron raised his eyebrows in surprise. "No, of course, I would be happy to visit it myself, but my people... You see, we've traveled enough lately, and the hardships that have befallen us leave us no choice but to finally settle down. We no longer wish to seek fortune as mercenaries or glory as warriors. This is the unanimous decision of my people, and I will abide by it."

"And what do you want, dear?"

"I would like to ask for your permission to establish a free settlement on your land. Right here, in these places. And as free people, to pay taxes to you."

"Hmm. Your desire is commendable, respected one."

Alexander tensed. He had just been called "dear," which was a common address from a superior to an inferior. But with the last address, the baron put him on the same level as himself. "Respected one" - this was only addressed to equals. An unrecognized bastard and a baron could only be equals in erotic dreams. The difference in their social status was so vast that there was a gap as wide as the distance to the moon between them. And here he was already "respected one." His palms became sweaty. The change in the interlocutor's expression did not escape the baron, but he did not pursue the topic further.

"I will be happy to grant your request. Visit me as soon as possible. Tomorrow or the day after, I will be glad to see you at my castle."

With these words, the baron stood up and left the tent without saying goodbye. Soon the vampires watched the departing cavalcade.

"Why do you look so concerned?" Leonid asked Alexander as they walked away from the improvised camp to their resting place.

During his conversation with the baron, no one else was present. He even personally served him, which meant that he needed to tell his friends everything, without missing any small details in the interlocutor's behavior. Of course, the vampires heard the conversation, but not all of them were nearby to ignore informing their comrades. Therefore, Alexander hurried back to the camp, accompanied by Leonid.

"Yes, the baron behaved strangely," Alexander replied absentmindedly.

"I didn't notice."

"How could you notice if you weren't there and only listened? His words were perfectly logical, but his facial expressions and reactions... It felt like he... I can't even articulate it somehow. There was horror, dissatisfaction, anger, and irritation..."

"I suggest not burdening yourself with mysteries right now. You don't have all the information to make the right decision. Store it in your memory, and better yet, write it down when you have the chance. Sooner or later, we'll get additional information, and everything will become clear."

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