"Do that and I'll just do another raid," Caius casually said.
Everything stopped—even Maximus froze mid-bow. Time dragged out a bit as Gaius glared at his son.
"You wouldn't da—" but he didn't get all the words out before he started to cough again.
The physicians were once again stressed as they all moved quickly to attend to the King, trying to stop his coughing, but Gaius chased them off.
"Get out! All of you," he yelled into the handkerchief he had been handed. The physicians didn't wait to be told twice and all rushed to the doors.
"Your Majesty," it was Lord Maximus who called. He was the only other person left behind.
King Gaius narrowed his eyes at Caius, slowly pulling the handkerchief from his lips. Then he turned to look at Maximus. "Wait," he said, dismissing Maximus with a wave.
Lord Maximus knew what the order was for. It was for him to wait before releasing the prisoners. "As you wish, Your Majesty," he said and started to withdraw.
