Chapter 47

• The chamber seemed to hold its breath, the silence broken only by the crackling of the flames. Demion stood tall, his silhouette cast against the crimson backdrop, a figure of undeniable power and determination. The game was far from over, and he was ready to make his next move.
• "Leave," Demion said, his voice echoing in the chamber. The man almost instantly rose up, bent his head again in a quick bow, and departed, eager to escape the oppressive aura that surrounded his ruler.
• Once alone, Demion allowed himself a moment of reflection. "I wasn't expecting her to take her minions; that was a little unexpected," he laughed softly, a sound devoid of warmth. His mind replayed their last encounter, the fiery redhead standing her ground, her eyes blazing with defiance. Her escape had been audacious, and for that, he almost admired her. Almost.