"I will bring this matter to His Majesty directly," Stormlord responded to the Duchess' demands. The statement had a great deal of finality to it.
Maerina's triumphant smile faltered, but just for a breath. Her eyes narrowed ever so slightly, and her hand tightened around her fan. This wasn't the public condemnation and instant punishment she'd desired. She wanted this scumbag and his women shamed, restrained, and judged here, in front of everyone. Not discussed quietly behind palace walls.
But she didn't protest. Not to him. Not to the King's personal executioner.
With a forced scoff, she turned away.
"I've wasted enough time already," she snapped while also snapping her fan open once again as if to shield her delicate features from the offending presence of the bright morning sun. "If I stay out here any longer, this sun will ruin my pristine skin."
