The chief let out a sharp laugh, his eyes narrowing with pure disdain.
“You’re nothing but a liar, Lance,” he spat. “A pretender.”
He gestured at Lance mockingly.
“The Elite Guard? That’s the special force only the general himself can summon. So tell me—” His voice dripped with contempt. “How could a mere deserter like you call upon them?”
The crowd murmured in agreement. Laughter rippled through the hall.
Nicholas smirked, stepping forward.
“Enough of this nonsense,” he sneered. “The chief’s nephew will be here any minute. You’d be wise to get on your knees and apologize now.”
His eyes gleamed with malice.
Lance didn’t move. He didn’t flinch. His expression was carved from stone.
Nicholas turned to the chief.
“But before that—” His voice was sickly sweet, laced with cruelty. “Ev
