Valka
The pitcher smashes into the wall, shattering against the marble. Rafael staggers, his clothes rumpled, his eyes bruised purple from sleepless nights, the grey of them blown so wide they're almost black. "You all laugh at me!" he bellows, spinning in a wild circle, pointing at the trembling faces of his court. "All of you! You've all betrayed me!"
Lilith casts a sharp glance at the crowd. "The King has had too much to drink and must retire to his chambers to rest. You're all dismissed--"
"No!" Rafael snarls, seizing the massive vase beside his throne. He hurls it across the hall.
Lilith barely dodges as it explodes against the pillar behind her, shards flying. Her command might have sent the courtiers scattering, but fear finishes the job. They flee, tripping over gowns and chairs, desperate to escape the path of the next thing he throws.
Still, Lilith lunges forward, catching him by his torso before he hits the ground.
