Chapter 1120

“Augustine,” Riley began, his tone cool and sharp as steel, “my young master has instructed me to return what belongs to you.” His words hung in the air like a blade, each syllable carrying a subtle threat. “He also sends a message: keep your dogs leashed. If anyone dares lay a hand on him again, it won’t end with a simple return.” With that, Riley gave the mute slave a ruthless shove. The man collapsed at Augustine’s feet with a heavy thud, the sound jarring against the silence of the hall. The wooden floorboards groaned beneath the weight, as if recoiling from the insult. Augustine shot to his feet, his face a twisted mask of fury. The lines carved into his skin deepened, and his thick gray brows trembled with barely contained rage as he glared daggers at Riley’s retreating back. Riley didn’t even spare him a final glance. CRACK! Augustine’s cane struck the floor with a resounding crack that echoed like thunder in the cavernous hall. “This is open defiance!” he roared, his voice shak