An amused smile crossed the duke's face. "She seems to be angry at me."
Lord Thane nodded. "I heard she just learned of her son's participation in the fight." He made sure to emphasize the "her son" part.
The Duke shrugged. "It skipped my mind; I was too busy planning for the fight at Jutlen village this weekend."
"Oh right, what are my orders there?" Lord Thane asked.
"Actually, I'm thinking of going myself this time," the Duke replied.
Lord Thane tried to hide his surprise and displeasure. "You are?"
"Yes," the Duke replied. "Now that it seems I have a capable heir, I can finally put myself in some dangerous situations and not worry too much, don't you think?"
"Yes, I agree," Lord Thane replied, his gut twisting.
"Besides, I've missed the action. It gets tiring being stuck in this dark castle like some forgotten relic," the Duke continued.