Seeing that look of absolute, chilling indifference in his mother's eyes, the last remaining shred of the Marquis's pride shattered into a million irreparable pieces.
His mother had always been his absolute shield against his father's terrifying wrath. Even when he was a disappointment, even when he failed his martial arts exams, she had always protected him. But now, that shield was completely gone. He had crossed the one line he could never uncross: he had threatened the only thing in the world she currently valued.
The Marquis completely collapsed onto the cobblestones. He didn't dare to look up, didn't dare to speak, and didn't dare to defend the bleeding Fourth Groom still whimpering on the ground nearby. He simply pressed his forehead against the cold stone, trembling like a leaf in a hurricane.
Heena looked down at the pathetic display. The deep, spiteful rage that had been boiling inside Seera's memories finally felt a profound, soothing wave of satisfaction.
