Azel rested his hand on his jaw, gazing at Naho. His stare was deep, but thoughts collided chaotically within him.
Double-edged words…
Are you saying the state comes before family?
If I spare your son—will you show loyalty?
What if I kill him? Will you rebel immediately?
Do you dare threaten me in my own palace?
Azel's brows drew together slowly. His inner voice grew colder.
When did the S. Dragon lineage fall this low?
These thoughts linked and deepened in his mind.
Casting a brief glance at Azel, Marius pondered inwardly.
Naho never used to speak like this.
He would take lives and give his own for his family.
That trait is clearly reflected in his son.
Though rich in emotion, Naho is a dragon who sees cause and effect. That is why he remained silent when his son's death was announced—he chose internal struggle over opposition.
Marius stepped forward one pace. His voice rang out cold, formal, and sharp.
"Naho, your words hold weight."
