Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 292. You Interrupted My Monologue

Cley's brows furrowed slightly as he mulled over the implications of Angel's actions. “That makes sense,” he admitted with a thoughtful nod. It was a realization that struck him with a mix of surprise and unease. Had he been too oblivious to notice Angel's subtle maneuvers in the past?

Reflecting on their interactions, Cley couldn't recall many instances where he witnessed Angel employing his skills to spy on the nobles directly. But then again, perhaps he had simply been overlooking the signs all along. It was a disconcerting thought, to say the least.

Cley couldn't deny the logic behind Angel's methods. The swift and seemingly effortless ascent to power that Angel had achieved in Euphorion couldn't have been possible without some form of covert surveillance. It was a sobering realization that made Cley question his own naivety in underestimating the extent of Angel's influence.

In hindsight, Cley recognized that Angel's reign had been remarkably stable, especially considering the circumstances surrounding his rise to power. Despite the abrupt transition from the late King Xenos's rule, Angel had managed to maintain a remarkable level of control and loyalty among the nobles. It was a feat that seemed almost too good to be true.

Most nobles appeared to stand firmly behind Angel, rarely voicing opposition to his decisions. Cley couldn't help but wonder if their apparent compliance was merely a facade, or if Angel had truly managed to win over their allegiance through his shrewd tactics and subtle manipulation.

His decision to rule with wisdom had garnered widespread approval, as most people saw the merit in his actions. However, there were always a few dissenting voices among the nobles whose intentions were less than noble. In the days of King Xenos's reign, these dissenters had been plentiful, their corrupt schemes and treacherous plots threatening the stability of the kingdom.

Yet, with Angel's ascension to power, Cley couldn't help but notice a significant shift in the political landscape. Those once-prominent dissenters seemed to vanish into obscurity, their influence waning as Angel's authority grew. It was a testament to the strength of Angel's leadership and the fear he instilled in those who dared to oppose him.

Despite Angel's outward appearance of calm and composure, Cley knew better than to underestimate the depths of his power. Behind the scenes, Angel undoubtedly wielded influence and authority with a deftness that few could match.

Cley's thoughts wandered. Soon, he found himself stealing another glance at Angel. The man exuded an air of quiet authority, his demeanor calm and collected. 'I never thought he was that scary,' Cley mused inwardly. 'Or maybe it's because he never showed it to us. He really pampers us a lot.'

The realization sent a shiver down Cley's spine. Despite his years spent in Angel's service, he couldn't deny the sudden unease that gripped him. It was as though he had glimpsed a hidden aspect of Angel's character, one that lay veiled beneath layers of kindness and generosity.

Before he could dwell further on his unsettling thoughts, Claire's sharp tap on his shoulder jolted him back to the present. He turned to find Claire's furrowed brows and irritated expression directed at him. Her fiery demeanor snapped him out of his reverie.

“Stop staring and do your job,” Claire chided, her annoyance evident in her tone. “I don't want to help you if your work isn't finished.”

Cley blinked, momentarily taken aback by Claire's abruptness. His lips twisted into a disgruntled frown, his brows furrowing in irritation. "You interrupted my monologue," he grumbled, his tone edged with frustration.

A perplexed frown creased Claire's brow as she regarded Cley. "What monologue?" she asked, her confusion evident in her voice.

Cley let out an exasperated sigh, his annoyance palpable. "Monologue in my head, of course," he retorted, his words laced with irritation. It was clear that Claire's interruption had derailed his train of thought, and he was none too pleased about it.

Claire couldn't suppress a cringe at Cley's response, finding his petulance rather childish. Despite her annoyance, she decided to let the matter drop and refocus on her work. With a resigned shake of her head, she returned her attention to the documents spread out before her.