CHAPTER 45
Grace lost her patience. She moved swiftly, striking the intruder across the face with a sharp slap. It had been a long time since she let anger control her hands.
The gathered citizens didn't react with shock, King Quicke's fury was nothing new.
Queen Judith stepped closer, placing a calming hand on Grace's shoulder, but Grace ignored her entirely, her body rigid with irritation.
"You will speak immediately," she commanded with a low voice . "Or I will deal with you as I see fit."
The intruder let out a soft, mocking chuckle. "I owe you no explanation, King," he said, his voice laced with hatred.
Grace's expression darkened. With a quick gesture, she signaled the commanders. "Strip his shirt and give him strokes until he learns respect."
The flogging began, the sharp sound of leather against flesh cutting through the air. The intruder gritted his teeth, refusing to cry out. The crowd watched in silence until another voice cut through. "Stop."
It was Queen Jonah.