Chapter 2456

“You gentlemen seem to be in high spirits,” Tobias remarked, picking up his teacup and taking a sip. His tone was calm but firm. “I’m not one for surprises—I don’t handle scares well. Let’s keep the jokes to a minimum moving forward.”

“Of course,” the city guard commander replied with a polite smile, nodding. “This is our first meeting, and the general only wanted to lighten the mood. If we’ve offended you in any way, I apologize on his behalf. Please don’t take it personally.”

Hearing this, Tobias’s expression softened slightly. He wasn’t easily intimidated—if he had the courage to attend a gathering as risky as this, fear wasn’t in his nature.

If everyone could speak sensibly, he wouldn’t mind sharing a bit of information. But the problem was their overbearing demeanor. The constant threats and posturing as if he were insignificant left Tobias irritated. He restrained himself only out of courtesy.

“There’s no need to apologize,” Tobias said, his face unreadable. “If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave.”

As he spoke, Tobias made to rise from his seat. The conversation had reached a dead end, and staying longer seemed pointless.