Nora stepped forward, her young face set with determination inherited from her mother. "Old man, don't you have shame, pestering a woman even after she rejected you?"
"And we won't let anyone take away the barony; it is ours, and we worked very hard to make it what it is today."
Eude's laugh was soft and dangerous. "The idealism of youth. How refreshing... and how foolish." His gaze returned to Cleora. "I will ask once more, Baroness. Join me willingly, and your people prosper. Refuse, and they will learn the price of your stubborn pride."
"My answer remains unchanged," Cleora declared, her voice unwavering despite the growing tension.
"Tekkora bows to no one."
Eude's expression turned cold and twisted as he said, "Then you have chosen their fate as well as your own."
He gestured sharply, and the doors burst open.
A dozen Crimsan Blades members entered, their weapons drawn and their faces set in grim determination.
