"Cowards," the Count thought bitterly at their silence. Yet, this result wasn't entirely unfavorable. Their silence was practically a neutral stance, which allowed him to spread responsibility across the families. The Count looked at Toby with a self-satisfied expression.
"Seeing as there's no response, perhaps I should take a bit more time to think…"
"We must accept the negotiation!"
The Count's face hardened at once. He turned to see Leon stepping forward.
"Sir Sylas sacrificed himself to save us. How can you hesitate now that there's an opportunity to save him?"
The air froze. The other three noble youths stared at Leon in disbelief.
"Is he crazy?"
They knew Winslow's family was close to Rey and Sylas, but such boldness was reckless. Especially with Count Herning, a lord they would continue serving.
The Count's gaze turned icy. "Is that the position of the Winslow family?"