Two sharp gasps rang out, originating from Elowyn and Soleia respectively. Elowyn held onto Orion's arm right as his eyes widened with disbelief. The green light from his jade ear studs quickly dimmed.
"Ralph, you―"
Ralph raised his hand, swiping his thumb across the corner of his lip. A small red stain coated the pad of his thumb and he scowled at the sight of it. Then, he raised his gaze to meet Orion's eyes.
For some reason, even though the Duke had seen his fair share of monsters and death, there was something in Ralph's eyes that sent an uncomfortable chill down his spine. But the look was gone as quickly as it came, replaced by the usual humorous, lazy gaze his best friend often wore.
