Darian lowered his head with the practiced patience of a man who had heard similar scoldings for decades.
"Yes, Lord Orvain."
Aurelian kept his expression steady, though it was not easy. There was something oddly comforting about seeing a senior branch commander scolded like a careless youngster.
Orvain's tone eased after a moment.
"Still, seeing Aurelian is worth some excitement. He has brought great merit to the family and may become very important to this branch as well."
Darian looked between them, suddenly alert. "Important to the branch?"
"Call the Tier V commanders and senior administrators currently in residence," Orvain said. "Also notify Mirael and Soren if they are in the district. We need a branch council."
Darian blinked. "Now?"
"Now."
He looked like he wanted to ask more, especially with Aurelian standing there, but Orvain did not give him the chance.
"Go. Aurelian does not have time to run messages for you."
