Lina's voice rang through the entrance, cold with anger. Everyone present was startled by her sudden appearance, and the scene immediately descended into confusion. The Duke of Champagne lost his gloating expression and hurried forward to pay his respects, while the mercenary merely folded his arms and glanced sideways at Lina with the same disdainful attitude he had displayed during their first encounter.
Unfortunately for him, Lina no longer found his behaviour remotely charming.
She turned towards the guards and issued her order without the slightest hesitation. "He has trespassed into the palace. Arrest him immediately."
The guards exchanged uncertain glances and hesitated, apparently unsure whether they should really lay hands on someone who had the queen's protection. Lina's expression grew even colder.
"What? Have you become so incapable that you can no longer obey even my orders?"
