Hallie stood there silently, her gaze locked on Julian with an intensity that could have burned holes through walls. Her chest rose and fell sharply, but she didn't say a word—just stared, her eyes a mix of rage and desperation.
Meanwhile, the four guardians exchanged uneasy glances—unsure where this confrontation would lead.
Julian, however, just smiled as if he had been expecting her all along. His earlier rowdy demeanor melted away as he stood, smoothing his black robe with a flick of his hand.
"Oh, Princess," he said, his voice soft but with a subtle hint of mock. "Welcome to my humble abode. I hope you don't mind the mess." He gestured lazily at the chaos around them—spilled ale, scattered game pieces, and a dagger stuck in the table.
Hallie's eyes flickered, a flash of disgust spreading across her face as she took in the scene. Her lips twitched as if she might spit curses, but she held her tongue, her silence louder than any scream.
