Without waiting for a response, Niko placed a steadying hand on Elian's shoulder, gently but firmly guiding him away.
Orin and Ren flanked them, their glaring eyes never leaving the servants as they moved. Aria, carried the basket of dried clothes, and followed them quietly, her gaze flicking back to the cowering servants as she passed.
The servants' faces were ashen, still kneeling, their eyes wide with fear, but there were no words left for them.
As the small procession left the corridor, the air thick with tension and unspoken words, the servants remained where they were, silent, humiliated, unable to meet each other's gaze.
