[Pride over survival. Goddess he would never understand, would he? It's not about pride, or at least not just about pride. He had responsibilities that came with that privilege he so often mocked him for. Maintaining his reputation, marrying well, improving the standing of his House and his resources means the ability to do more for his people.

What good is he to anyone if he throws away that privilege with reckless behavior and disregard for others' opinions?

And then for Claude to say that it is merely a baseless claim that he works to serve his people on top of it all. That actually gets the tiniest little flinch, no matter how he tries to steel himself against Claude's accusations. It can be so infuriating trying to talk to him, sometimes.

Lorenz breaths out a slow, measured breath. One hand lifts to hover over his chest, familiar... defensive in many ways.]

The people I serve [Not merely a claim, dammit.] rely on me making decisions that are beneficial for Gloucester and the Alli- ah... I suppose all of Fodlan now, hmm? I do not see how devaluing myself is, in any way, achieving that goal.

And do not think I don't see, clearer here than ever, how the two of you regard my... intolerance for leniency.