Caution: The following content contains scenes of violence and blood. Reader discretion is advised.
…
With the trace of the prior occurrence at the deeper part of the dungeon, Sir Daelan followed close behind Nicolaus walking.
He met Miss Celia's eyes and offered a nod to greet her. She did the same in return, a response of a subtle bob of her head in acknowledgment.
But just as they were finishing their silent exchange, a shrill cry filled the room.
"M, My lord! We beg for your mercy!" It came from the imprisoned servants, now huddling at the end of the cell, as far from the gates as they could.
Their faces lacked color as though someone sucked all the blood from their veins. Their eyes were huge like saucers, holding their fear.
They clung desperately to the thread of hope that Silvest might show mercy instead, that in some miracle or impossible way, show compassion and sway the tyrant from killing them.