Aksai stopped a short distance away and looked at Heilam with a nonchalant look in his eyes.
"Iron Mountain Sect master," Aksai said in a calm voice, "let me explain why Grisham did what he did before you start judging him or his master."
Heilam let out a long breath and laughed bitterly.
"So it was true after all," he said. His voice was tired but sharp. "You were indeed behind this vile creature."
Grisham remained bowed, silent and still.
Aksai did not react with anger. He simply met Heilam's gaze.
"Yes," he said. "He serves me."
Heilam looked at Aksai in silence.
Many emotions rushed through his chest at once. Anger. Shock. Regret. Confusion. They twisted together, making it hard for him to breathe. His hands trembled slightly, not from fear alone, but from the realization of his own weakness against a Lord pressing down on him.
After a long moment, Heilam let out a dry laugh.
It held no joy.
Only bitterness.
