Post by Antonin Deliambre on Nov 4, 2014 20:09:10 GMT -5
Allowing himself to be guided to a seat at the table as they elected to settle down to business, Septimus indicated he wished Cesare on his left and Silvio on his right as he chose a chair directly opposite from his Seravino counterpart. Whatever the man's thoughts on his person, Septimus had no concern or regard. They were not here to establish the fundamental differences between Deliambre and Montefiore, though at the core, Montefiore might find they were not so different. Control was a hard-won skill exerted by the Deliambres from the days of the first Antonin, intended for greater success in business.
Studying Niccolo as the question launched unchecked from his lips, Septimus eased back slightly in his chair, his brow furrowing. While there was a part of him that anticipated such a demand, and had been warned by his Duchess that suspicion would not be swiftly or summarily dismissed, he was still displeased to know his motives were so openly questioned. However, he controlled his reaction, something that likely might cost him in the end as he narrowed his gaze slightly upon hearing the laugh, followed by the remarks made.
He wanted to sigh, feeling already like this was going to be less negotiation and more a demand for concessions from the Deliambre. Reminding himself to keep an open mind and an honest tongue, Septimus let the silence fall between them for several minutes, deciding to address the unspoken accusation first. "We are here first to tell you to your face that no Deliambre is responsible, directly or indirectly, for the tragic loss of life in this generation. I have no idea what sparked the feud," he leaned forward suddenly, his eyes intent, "and frankly, Lord Montefiore, I do not care. This foolishness has endured far longer than it should, for reasons long forgotten. Too many lives have been lost for no more reason than because our forebears could not settle their differences as men. For your losses, I am truly sorry... but no one in Catanaria, or Calandria, no one bearing the name Deliambre, inflicted them upon you. You have my word on this, both as Duke of Calandria, and on our shared blood as kinsmen."
Whether Niccolo would accept that word or throw it into his teeth, Septimus did not know, but it had been said without flinching or avoidance. Septimus wanted his position made plain, his cards revealed and played openly. He had no reason to lie to his kinsman... for Montefiore was still kin, no matter what anyone said.
Niccolo Montefiore / Rafael Sandoval / Cesare Deliambre / @silvio