The Long Game

Magnus paced back and forth in front of his fireplace, waiting for his oldest son. He was supposed to be there at three, but it was already nearing five o'clock, and he still hadn't shown up. As the King's patience was about to hit it's limit, the door to his bedroom opened.

 As soon as his eyes fell on his son, his anger exploded; "Where the Hell have you been?! I summoned you almost two hours ago! I am your King, on top of being your father! What excuse do you have for being almost two hours late?!"

 Marco smiled pleasantly at his father as he replied; "I apologize for my tardiness, Father. I was in a very important meeting with General Zas, then I had a previous engagement that I had put off for far too long already. Again, I apologize for being late, but it couldn't be helped."