Maximilian grabbed Arthur by the back of his collar and slammed him against the wall beside the door.
Just as he pivoted on his feet, Arthur grabbed his robe from behind. Blood spilled from his broken jaw, his breathing uneven, bruises covering his face.
"M-my Lord... wh-why..." he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, moisture filling his eyes. "Why are you so kind to a pathetic fool like me?"
For only a brief moment, Maximilian's brow twitched, his jaw tightening. After giving Arthur one last glance, the cold, unreadable expression returned to his face.
"Y-your Highness, if he has done something to offend you, you should have just said the word," Julian said as he slowly approached Maximilian, his face carrying a nervous smile. "I would have taken care of him for you. There was no need for you to dirty your hands."
