Gollor and Doyle let out a long breath.
For some reason, Tales also breathed a sigh of relief.
But Marius suddenly changed tack:
"But since we can't reach an agreement, wouldn't it be best to leave the decision to the captain or His Majesty?"
Vogel snorted angrily.
"That's enough."
He addressed him by his title again:
"Watcher."
"Do you think that, relying on Captain Adrian's limitless indulgence, you can run rampant without a care in the world?"
This time, Marius remained calm and mild:
"No, I think you must have misunderstood something, sir. I was only saying..."
"I said," Vogel's normally excellent composure clearly couldn't conceal his displeasure, "don't lecture me."
Tales knew he couldn't keep pretending to be dead any longer.
"Lord Talun..."
"Perhaps you don't fully understand," Tales turned his head and raised his cup, cheerfully inserting himself into their conversation. "But in this world, people who hold grudges against me, have conflicts of interest with me, or simply dislike me can honestly line up all the way to Dragoncloud City."
Vogel looked at him. The chill in his eyes melted like snow, leaving only a springlike smile on his face.
"You are outstanding and exceptional, Your Highness. Naturally, you attract the jealousy of petty men. You needn't take it to heart."
While thinking that this man's armor was even tougher than his own, Tales tried to smooth things over:
"Therefore, Lord Marius's concern isn't without reason."
"Of course, you're right as well. This banquet is extremely important."
"Why don't we each take a step back? Lord Marius needn't rashly and aggressively interrupt the banquet, while you can investigate potential dangers more calmly and ensure nothing goes wrong?"
Tales wore an elegant smile, his eyes shining with the clear message: Do me this favor.
Marius was silent for