Hadrianus Asclepius Mervos-Potter, third in line for the Merrow throne, son of His Royal Highness King Alcandor’s Bonded Ace, was about to flop down on the table in front of him and attempt to spill his own guts with a tablespoon. Alcandor had demanded his presence for this particular meeting, and he was more than done with all the polite diplomatic shit going on. He was not in any way, shape or form a politician, councilman or Arielle forbid an advisor. He was a consultant at best, okay?
His King must have forgotten this tiny detail, because he forced him to sit through three whole hours of Court bullshit that didn't interest him in the slightest. Hadrianus’ official title was Consultant of Out Of Odinary Merrow-related Illegal Appearances And Activities Off-Realm – which, in his opinion conveyed rather clearly that he was the 'Find crime, fight criminals' type of person. Not the 'Talk law, hand off lawbreakers' variation.
“And now, let’s skip to our last topic of the day, the Hunt.” Alcandor interrupted one of his ministers mid sentence, apparently bored enough finally to speed the proceedings along. “Do we have an estimated number of Merrow participants?”
“We did indeed compile a list for Your Highness.” A dull looking man with shark like attributes waved a dossier in one hand, before passing it around the table. “According to these statistics, quite a few decided to surface, but only twenty three are looking to actively hunt this season.”
“Good, good. Nothing too out of the ordinary then. We can just look over our guards’ schedules from last time, shuffle it around a little and then move on to figure out our show itself.” The Merrow smiled wildly, clearly looking forward to talking about the dramatic displays.
“Not quite…” The same minister from before mumbled, gathering more attention this time around. Even Rian decided to tune in again, surprised to hear any of these shriveling jellyfish baits say a sentence containing ‘no-’ to the King himself. “Since Prince Hadrianus has decided to participate in this year's Hunt, I would strongly advise a much more enforced Gheyo guard.”
Well, shit, he thought to himself, as all eyes snapped in his direction.
“Oh, has he really?” Alcandor almost purred mirthfully. “How… delightful.”
“Indeed.” He grumbled, suddenly looking forward to the occasion way less, alarmed by the royals tone and amused expression.
“I will make sure to let Killigan know they will have the opportunity to doll you up nicely, just as they have been wanting for a while.” The man, that evil little prick, added smirking madly. “And of course, due to the safety concerns, I feel obligated to contact your Grandmera Antonella and her Circle. I am sure as a military Circle, they will have the most creative ways to keep you safe and sound. Guarded all.The. Time.”
Fuck you too, Al, Hadrianus sneered silently, while he plastered a smile on his face and nodded his head. The game is fucking on now, Your Highness.