"My Lord!" Terrance, one of Raven's trusted aides, sprang to his feet, alarmed by the sudden outburst. But Raven didn't acknowledge him. His eyes, now cold and devoid of emotion, were locked onto the messenger.
"Speak clearly. Are you telling me that Seraphina has collapsed? Who was vomiting blood?" Raven's voice was so low it was almost a growl, the threat of violence barely masked.
The messenger, now visibly trembling, sank to the floor under the pressure of Raven's glare. His lips quivered as he tried to speak, but the words refused to come out. He was fearful, so fearful of this demon-like duke.
Lyndon, sensing the tension, could no longer stay silent. He stepped forward, his voice urgent. "My Lord! This is not the time! You must return to the Duchy immediately!"
...
