Maybe it's his own naivete showing, the fact that even after ten years, he still hasn't accustomed himself to the cutthroat politics and subtle political plays of the Veretian court. Nyx doesn't care; the high, unhappy red flush of Laurent's face is more than he can allow, insubordination be damned. He may have been stripped of his title as Captain of the Guard, but the King himself had granted him this new assignment and Nyx would carry it out to his death, if need be.

"Quit it with the mysterious bullshit, Auguste. I know you've got yourself sunk eyeballs deep in politics and intrigue all day, but Laurent at least deserves to know who you have in mind." More than that, Laurent deserves to choose, to have his pick of the best and cleverest, finest men in Vere and beyond. Laurent himself deserves only the best.