Julian didn't even need to check the Scholar's affection level to know that he was either in the negative or had no affection for him at all.
Then, the Scholar gave a mocking huff, clearly disappointed he couldn't get a rise out of the 'disgraced' son of the Astrea family. He would've made quite the entertaining piece, he thought.
Then, just as Julian predicted, the bored old scholar turned on his heel and left through the side door, leaving a trail of expensive incense.
Julian let out a slow breath. 'The 'Veil' makes me look like a commoner, but it doesn't change my history for those who already know my face,' he noted. It was a flaw he'd have to account for.
Then, the heavy gold doors to the throne room groaned open. A herald didn't even need to announce the name; the sheer pressure in the air told Julian exactly who was waiting inside.
