Chapter 72: "Rise of the Phoenix king"
Lyrien strode forward with calm confidence, though his measured steps betrayed a readiness to act if needed. The soldiers parted for him, their wariness evident as his reputation preceded him. As he approached, his gaze locked with Thrain's.
"I am—" Lyrien began, but Thrain's simmering anger cut him off.
"A murderer," Thrain finished sharply, his voice filled with venom.
Before he could say more, the voice in his head snapped, "Silence, boy. In war, everyone is a killer. You fight to live, and in that fight, you take lives. Hold your tongue unless you want to look like a fool." The words struck Thrain like a lash, grounding him momentarily. As much as he despised Lyrien, he knew the truth in those words. War was brutal and indiscriminate.
