Louis reached out and pushed open the oak door, the hinge letting out a low groan.
Varius stood inside, clutching a pen tightly. It wasn't a particularly splendid object, but in his eyes, it was heavier than any scepter.
"Lord Louis, I will not let you down," he said softly, his voice still slightly strained as he bowed deeply to Louis.
Louis said nothing more, only nodding slightly.
Varius turned and left.
His figure disappeared at the end of the corridor, exceptionally resolute.
"Clack." The door slowly closed behind him.
Almost at the same moment, the nearly mentor-like solemnity on Louis's face completely faded away.
He raised his hand to rub his forehead, as if finally releasing a string that had been taut for a long time.
"Phew..." A long breath escaped.
He turned and walked back to the table, picked up the cup of tea that had long since gone cold, and drank a sip without hesitation.
The bitterness exploded at the back of his tongue.
