Quinlan had nothing personal against Cassandra Valor. In fact, he had a very favorable impression of the loyal woman. But he had no mercy to spare. The royals had pushed his buttons; he couldn't afford something as luxurious as being merciful.
Just as he spared no innocents back in the capital when he released pure mayhem to serve as a distraction, killing men, women, and children alike without sparing a single soul, he couldn't afford to spare Cassandra.
She was now his greatest pawn, alongside the Greenvale twins. Her role was far too important to show her mercy.
Perhaps once he was strong enough not to be threatened by the royals, he would set her mind and emotions free once again.
Perhaps.
A small weight was lifted from Liora's shoulder. Rosie floated off with a cheery little hum, darting through the air until she was before Quinlan's face. She hugged him fiercely, planting a tiny kiss on his forehead. It was her personal welcome-home ritual.
