A muscle in Tobias' cheek twitched, the only betrayal of expression, despite the fact that Constans' bold reply both amused and infuriated him. And that was defining 'amused' in the broadest and strictest of senses. The boy was brazen, and while arrogant, was at least honest. Frankly, he was very much like Lorna when faced with confrontation; challenging not only of those who accused her, but the methods that drove their hands. Bold, just- very bold. "Yes, well, respect is deference, or at the very least acceptance and courtesy. All of which are things that you've had plenty of disregard for in the past. I'm sure that we've had this conversation before, and even more certain that we'll be having it again in the near future."
The lilt was irksome, but he ushered the pair from the small room, nodding his head respectfully at a Tranquil who passed them once they reached the corridor. He didn't recall the name, something that ordinarily wouldn't have phased him, but in the wake of the current grievance, unsettled him. "It's not a matter of wasting the First Enchanter's time. It's not as if he has a pressing engagement elsewhere. These small things are as much his responsibility as the Harrowing." Tobias clamped his jaw shut, trying not to press the line further, but it was of little use. If Constans would be so free to speak his mind, then so would he. At sixty, there was little that he had left to say, and when the notion to speak struck, it was probably better to speak while he could. "I believe that your inevitable Harrowing should be your prime focus, but call me old fashioned."
He supposed it was a double standard that he should speak to Constans and ignore his Enchanter paramour, so he offered a terse nod. "Enchanter Keigwin, there are few matters here at the Tower that fall into my jurisdiction, however it is my duty to report activity."