Rejection and Unexpected Alliances

They began speaking to him, but the words were incomprehensible through his fear.

Likely, they were saying something like, "Would you prefer shooting or bludgeoning?" Rocco thought bitterly.

How could he possibly answer that?

Just as he squeezed his eyes shut, bracing himself for whatever fate awaited, a sudden sound broke the tension.

The heavy door swung open with force, and a familiar voice called out.

"—Master?"

Rocco's head shot up at the sound.

His tear-streaked, snot-covered face turned toward the speaker, who stood frozen, their eyes widening as they took in the sight.

At the same time, Rocco's own eyes widened in recognition.

Overcome with relief, he let out another loud cry and rushed toward the figure he had been longing to see.

The two guards who had been blocking his path no longer made any move to stop him.

"Georgio! Georgio, Georgio!!"