Caleb finally let go of the king's hand. He stepped back and took a moment to regain his composure. A deep breath and an exhale later, he focused on the king.
"This is a first for me, Your Majesty." Caleb stated warmly. "I'm glad I got to meet someone like you."
"Likewise, Mr. Zane."
"Call me Caleb." Being called Mister felt unnatural in this world. "I prefer being called by my first name." He added, walking over to the other side of the altar, stopping just before the commander.
"Commander Lance…" Caleb presented his right hand. "We good?"
"Depends." The commander took Caleb's hand and stared directly into his eyes. "Did you kill the Count?"
"No." The reply came firmly. "I've never taken a life that is not from the dungeon, at least not yet."
This was both his truth and the old Caleb's. That might change in the future, but for now, he would like it to remain this way.
