"I must say, Alph," He began, bringing a silver cup to his lips with practiced ease, "your favoritism is becoming most unappreciated. Some, not me by the gods, might take offense, you know? Rules are set to be followed like the Father Protector's own laws. What does it say to the rank and file when one man sees another go unpunished for pissing on the regulations?"
The Prince leveled a flat stare at his legate. "Guzzle your own piss, Jarza. You think I don't know about your little branding operation with the new recruit? Am I blind now?"
"Just saying, Prince," Jarza muttered, leaning back. "No need to go for the low blows."
"Just saying, Legate, I pamper all my legions far more than I do my own lad. You are all equally loved, so there's no need to squabble for daddy's affection." Alpheo hid a smirk behind the rim of his cup, watching Jarza's indignant expression soften.
