The grand hall fell into a tense silence. The echo of Kellan's outburst reverberated off the ornate walls, the sound mingling with the crackling of the fireplace and the faint rustle of heavy drapes. The trio by the door stood frozen, their expressions a mix of shock and suspicion.
Kellan's eyes, usually cold and calculating, now burned with a fierce, unhinged desperation. He surged from the chair, the impact of his feet against the marble floor resonating through the hall. He couldn't believe his luck!
"How dare you think you could escape me?" His voice was a low, menacing growl, the words trembling with the intensity of his rage.
Aira, who he had mistaken for Yara, jerked back at his approach. Her confusion was clear, and she struggled against his grip as he seized her arm. "What are you talking about?" she demanded, her voice edged with irritation. "Let go of me!"