Mate

The water in the large square bathtub splashed onto the marble floor as Rhaegar submerged his body under it, its clear surface instantly turning red with the mixed-in blood. 

The man did not move for quite a while, feeling the hot water dissolve all the dirt on his skin as it soaked his entire body in its pleasant embrace. 

Their blood smelled sickeningly disgusting. Even mixed with the scented oils added to his bath, that hideous stench refused to leave his nostrils, clinging desperately as if to remind him of what he had done. 

His face grimaced and the king finally emerged from the water, brushing his wet hair backward with his big tanned hand. 

Rhaegar never cared when it came to killing his enemies. It did not matter whether they were humans, beasts, or rogue creatures––if they posed a threat to him or his subjects, he would never hesitate to raise his sword or bare his fangs. 

And yet, tonight, it all had changed in a heartbeat.