Never Trust the Rules

Bastien ignored her comment about dinner and just watched her, a small, cruel smile playing at the corners of his lips. Next time, Siora, you'll save yourself, he said, his voice filled with an ominous promise as Siora thanked him for saving her. Remember, there are worse things than drowning.

As she went about her task, he let his gaze linger on her. He knew she was exhausted, pushed to her limits, but it was necessary. And remember, next time you won't have the luxury of my mercy, he added, the threat in his voice clear. Not that he wanted his favoured servant to die, he’d put a lot into her training, but if this had happened while she’d been out spying on someone for him, he wouldn’t have been there to save her.