The grand hall fell silent, and even the musicians stopped playing despite Hajin having enjoyed the melody.
He took one slow step forward, and his shoes clicked against the marble like a countdown.
He targeted nobody specifically, keeping the bloodlust broad enough to warn the room without crushing weaker guests.
Nobles backed away while the pressure stole color from several painted faces.
He stopped before Duke Vahn with a completely deadpan expression.
"Repeat the words you just said about my girls," Hajin said evenly.
He was not yelling or trying to be dramatic. He simply did not care enough to sound angry.
The old man's first attempt produced only a dry click of the jaw.
His knees shook beneath the same ceremonial robes that had looked imposing only moments earlier.
Juna stood behind Hajin with her ears lowered and allowed him to handle the insult.
Vella watched with crossed arms while Loccy divided her attention between the confrontation and the chocolate fountain.
