The Raging Blizzard (3)

Regaining her composure after a deep breath, Seline coughed one final time and swallowed. She added, "M, My lord, this is serious! I order you to stop walking and heed my words!" Her free hand clenched into a fist, and the other held her throat, still feeling the phantom grip lingering on her neck.

The entrance hall fell eerily silent as Seline's words echoed through the corridor. Unmoved, Nicolaus responded assertively, "You have no authority over me here, Northern Princess."

...

The room was saturated with the thick scent of his rut, gradually spreading over every corner. Even though the fireplace remained not ignited, the room felt unusually warm.

Complete darkness enveloped the space, not a single candle flickering to light it. The curtains were drawn and kept the blizzard that was raging outside.