Cassian did not step back despite Cryomara's definitive rejection. On the contrary, a brazen, defiant smile appeared on his face.
"I want the sword," he repeated, emphasizing every syllable.
Cryomara's patience was wearing thin. The walls of the room began to tremble.
"Heir of Kaiser..." Cryomara said, her voice low and dangerous. "I think you don't realize what kind of situation you are in, who you are talking to. This is my lair. My city. Right now, your life depends on a single breath of m-"
"What the fuck are you talking about?"
Cryomara's words got stuck in her throat.
Cassian broke that respectful, kneeling position he had maintained until that moment.
He slowly stood up in a calm but threatening manner. He straightened his clothes, dusting them off as if they were dusty.
His voice caused an icy silence in the room.
"My life is in your hands?" Cassian laughed. But this was not a joyous laugh; it was a dark, condescending laugh.
