Asterion's smile did not vanish despite the savage words he had spoken. However, it did change. The difference was both subtle and chilling — it was as if all warmth drained from his eyes, revealing the cold, ruthless void beneath.
In the stark absence of pretense, his beautiful golden eyes did not seem human at all.
Then, finally, his smile disappeared as well.
"Actually, I lied."
With his hands still clasped behind his back, Asterion did not look too threatening. His stance was wide open, and he neither wore armor nor wielded a weapon — and yet, the sound of his voice forced Sunny to move slightly, shifting his weight to his dominant leg.
Asterion walked toward Nephis slowly.
"Earlier, when I said that you grew up well, Nephis... that was a lie. In truth, you are a disappointment."
Stopping a few steps away, he looked at her with displeasure.
