Crossed Out

Erick understood now why Emperor Victor and the former emperors of Solis Nigellus always maintained a close relationship with Valyenor.

He once thought it was just part of the legends. He once thought what his twin brother and Emperor Victor had been telling him years ago were accounts blinded by extreme adoration of Duke Henry. 

But Erick knew now after seeing Henry so furious and ready for war a few days ago. He was so different to the Duke Henry that Erick knew. 

Henry already had a cold scary aura all the time. He also looked so formidable during the duel with the King of Valencia. But he looked so deadly and terrifying after he saw his adopted son covered in burns and learned that his only daughter could have been the one in such state.

Even if Zafir was not his blood, the duke clearly loved the young man so much to be enraged enough to declare war on the Nigellus household without talking to the elders of Valyenor.