After a long while.
Count Merlin moved his gaze from the smoothed-out sand table and looked at Grand Duke Kunsitan, who was somewhat bored as he smoked a White Dew Rain Dragon Cigar.
"We cannot afford to lose. This battle concerns the survival of the Grand Duchy. Even if His Highness Shadowflame is brimming with confidence, we still cannot let down our guard." Count Merlin covered his graying temple with a hand and spoke as though casually.
Grand Duke Kunsitan looked surprised for a moment, then replied, "We have already made every possible preparation. Victory in this battle is assured!"
"I know what you are relying on, but that reliance is like poison coated in sugar. It tastes good, but it does not go down well..."
"Listen, Count Merlin." Grand Duke Kunsitan rudely cut him off. "I do not wish to continue this argument. No matter what, I have not tried to strip you of your command, but you must understand that you are no longer the Chief Executive!"
Count Merlin remained unruffled. "This old man understands."
"I respect you and have given you ample privileges. I also hope that you can respect me as the Grand Duke." Grand Duke Kunsitan stared at Count Merlin, doing his utmost to suppress his heavy breathing.
"Respect this old man?" Count Merlin gave a soft laugh, but did not dwell on it. "I will respect you, Your Highness, just as I respected the late Grand Duke."
Grand Duke Kunsitan snorted coldly. "That would be best!"
A prolonged silence once more filled the command tent. One old and one young, they silently smoked their cigars, each occupied with his own thoughts.
By the time the cigars had burned halfway down.
Grand Duke Kunsitan finally ran out of patience and asked, "I want to go