In Marianna's room stood Aurora, her figure rigid with fury.
"You cannot just—" Marianna began, but her words were cut short by a resounding slap
"That," Aurora said coldly, her voice trembling with emotion, "is for murdering my friend."
Another slap followed swiftly, echoing through the chamber. "And that is for lying and refusing to even attempt to make amends."
A third slap struck, fiercer than the last, echoing through the room like a whip.
"And that," Aurora's voice wavered, trembling with restrained fury, "is for the needless pain and torment you have inflicted upon me. No matter how many times I strike you, it will never undo what you've done. You vile creature! How could you?"
Marianna staggered slightly, her hand instinctively flying to her stinging cheek. Guilt and pain flickered in her eyes, but she quickly straightened herself, breathing deeply to regain control.
Without meeting Aurora's fiery gaze, she turned away.
