Step. Step. Step.
Kael's boots clicked against the floor of the Vorn Estate's grand corridor. He was halfway to the exit when a sharp, venomous voice cut through the air.
"Kael!"
Kael stopped, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face before he smoothed it into a mask of perfect, artificial politeness. He turned slowly, offering a slight, mocking bow to the woman storming toward him.
"Lady Ursula," Kael greeted, his voice dripping with faux warmth. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
Ursula stopped a few feet away, her eyes blazing with barely restrained hatred. She waved a dismissive, manicured hand. "Spare me your fake pleasantries, boy. We both know you would sooner see me dead than bow your head to me."
Kael kept his hands clasped loosely behind his back, his silver-flecked eyes watching her like a predator observing a cornered animal.
