The study's curtains were drawn tight, the heavy velvet shutting out the daylight outside and muffling the distant hubbub from the streets of the Imperial Capital.
Kaelin sat behind the desk, a freshly delivered parchment spread in front of him, its corners still creased.
A "Declaration to the Imperial Compatriots" based on Louis's speech.
He read it line by line, every word sharp, unreserved in its malice, like a deliberately honed blade.
"A beast who slew his kin? A despotic thief of the Divine Artifact?" At this point, the corner of Kaelin's mouth twitched slightly.
A hoarse and low chuckle forced its way out of his throat, like a delight that comes with a truth finally unearthed.
"Beast?" he murmured the word again, his fingers slowly clenching, wrinkling the parchment.
"Ha... Louis, you're spot on with the insult." His eyes were cold and clear.
Kaelin remembered how he personally crushed Rhine's throat.
