A change in Glenn Burnie's tone; no longer struggling, no longer raving against the turn of events, lashing out as it becomes clear that he is no longer in control - that he has nood been in control since the Baron walked into his office.
Surdemer leans forward slightly, peering more closely at the young man's features with quiet interest, briefly raising his hand to hold the soldiers in their efforts.
"I also care, sir. I care that the people do not hunger or suffer or fear. A content populace is the mark of a wise ruler, and I would see all of His Majesty's subjects ruled well in his name." He sits back again, head tilted as he regards the pinioned young man thoughtfully, listening to that request - calm, courteous, concise. A marked difference to mere moments ago.
"Your mistake, sir, was imagining that I give a bent farthing for your feelings. You know nothing about me, and that's because I don't wish you to. You assume I'm nothing but a title, a rank, a duty - and you're correct, because that's all I need be to you. Here in Myrken Wood I am a consequence of Glenn Burnie's disrespect. When my work here is done I'll go east, where I will be a consequence of Burel Tassnehoff's rebellion. In these places I am an agent of His Majesty's will. When my work in this Province is done - God and King willing - I will return home with gladness and relief to my family, where I will be Almeric of Surdemer, husband and father and uncle and all the other titles that have no place here. You will never meet that man."
He considers the request with the air of a man about to go against his better judgment; the young man has already had opportunities to speak, to discuss practical concerns, but has squandered each one as it arose.
One last chance, then.
"I will listen for a short time, if you'll pretend I'm someone you don't want to antagonise. At the first sign of insolence or insults the Corporal there will knock your head firmly against the desk until you stop. That in mind--"
A knock at the door interrupts the Baron's warnings; he glances over his shoulder with a frown, then nods for the captain to answer while he rises to his feet with a sigh, absently straightening his tunic. It's probably just as well that he's turned away from the Governor, as the Kestrel's arrival earns a brief blink of surprise; the matter of a moment, though, before he bows in return to her greeting.
"Lady Verreaux." The glance he turns back to the young man is faintly suspicious, but he refrains from outright accusation as he returns his attention to the lady. "The Governor was about to offer his views on certain matters of government. You might find them of interest."
The Baron half turns, stepping aside so that he might face Burnie without turning his back on the lady. A nod of his head, a small sweep of his upturned hand in invitation.
"Enlighten us, sir."