Kel gulped as the sickening thud of the man's head hitting the floor echoed out into the hallway around her.
At least that guard had received the appearance of due process, unlike his companion who was killed on site. Though, in the end, both guards had died at the Dragon Emperor's sword.
She shuddered, suddenly picturing the bloodchilling look the emperor had given her back there. From the time they met until now, she realized this was the first time she'd seen the Dragon Emperor's true face.
"Is there even a point to these so-called trials?" one man complained as Kel fell in line with the parade of nobles swarming away from the bloodied throne room.
"I'm just grateful it's not me," another responded, rubbing his neck.
"It might be you next time!" a third man joined in. "If you keep selling those cheap mixed-metal candle sticks as deluxe furnishings, that is."
Kel snorted in disbelief as the trio broke into soft chuckles.
