Chapter 84: Unexpected guest (4)

Damian's chamber doors slammed open with such force that they rattled the fixtures, leaving a sharp echo in the still air.

Damian barely raised his gaze from the whiskey glass in his hand. He was sitting comfortably by the fireplace, fresh from his bath, dressed in a dark robe, his damp hair falling messily over his forehead. He exhaled, swishing the amber liquid lazily.

Two palace guards groaned on the ground near the doorway, their weapons scattered about them. Charles von Jaunez stood just beyond the threshold, his coat slightly disheveled, a reflection of the difficulties he had encountered on his way here. His glare was nothing short of murderous.

"Let him go." The words were low, biting. A demand, not a plea.

Damian took his time placing his glass on the side table before looking up, his expression unfazed. "Charles," he greeted smoothly, "I see you've decided to make a dramatic entrance. How many guards did you knock over on your way here?"