The dawn cast a pale light over the Aetheris estate, filtering through the high windows of Valen's chambers.
He sat at his desk, the events of the previous night lingering in his mind like a dark shadow.
The execution of the professor had been necessary—swift, cold, and final.
Yet, the look of devastation on Voss' face as his son's head hit the floor remained etched in his memory.
Valen stared out over the vast expanse of his family's lands, the cold morning air lingering around though not effecting him—but rather it is pleasant.
He had eliminated a threat to the family, but the situation had left scars—especially with Voss, who now carried the weight of his son's death.
Valen knew Voss was broken, but there could be no room for weakness. The Aetheris family's survival and dominance were paramount.
Everything else was secondary.
