As Vincent lowered his head after finishing his words, he felt a sudden, crushing grip on his chin. The force made him wince, and he felt his body dragged forward as Damien pulled him close. His face was just inches away from the king and he could feel his hot breath hitting his face.
"Since when do you care about a simple human life, Vincent?"
Vincent's eyes snapped shut, and his breathing quickened, panic taking hold of him. He wanted to look away from Damien's oppressive presence, but the grip on his chin held him firm. Still, he forced himself to speak. "My lord… I only meant… that we should be sure before taking such action. If it turns out that she is the reason, perhaps Master Enzo should be given… a warning first."
Damien lifted Vincent higher, almost to his own height, until his tiptoes barely scraped the ground.
