Since Peridot had dragged Jasper away, Childermass had fallen into watching the Count intently again. Waiting, almost hoping he would just carry on ignoring them and maybe, just maybe they could walk away, back through the shadows. Tough luck, apparently.

So, of course, he steps forward when the Count announces that. The glittering eyes watching all around them from the shelves are infinitely less intimidating than the man on the throne, meaning Childermass ignores them for now. He's used to them... or was used to them. Either or.

"Our case for what?"