not a villain

Lucian shook his head, his voice calm but carrying an undeniable weight.

"You think I don't understand?" he asked, his tone soft yet heavy.

"I do understand," he continued, unwavering. "That's why I'm not angry."

His gaze shifted back to the General.

"But understanding doesn't mean forgiving."

Lucian then turned to Meleonora, who had been pointing a finger at him, her expression filled with disdain.

"Maybe he had his reasons," Lucian admitted. "Maybe he needed his men elsewhere. I get it. But not informing me?" His voice grew colder. "It's clear he had his own greed in mind."

He leaned forward slightly, his arms crossing over his chest as he tilted his head.

"Hiding something that could've put my family in danger just because he thought I'd mind? Tell me, from which angle does that sound justifiable?" His sharp gaze flickered between Meleonora and the General, challenging them both.