Picking up the Pieces

Julian swallowed hard, the guilt already sinking into his heart as he took the last three steps into Demitri's office. He glanced behind him briefly, almost expecting Mason to appear, and shook off the silly notion before turning his attention to his leader. There was no going back once he spoke up, and all he could do afterwards was try and make it up to his best friend; if that was even possible..

"Sire, I beg your pardon for my intrusion but I come bearing news."

Demitri's head snapped up almost instantly and he could almost smell Julian's hesitation. His eyes became cold and he gave his soldier a hard stare, warning him to be completely honest.

"Well, don't be shy. Do spit it out."

"Of course. It's about Mason, Sire."

"I was afraid of that." Demitri sighed. "Please, proceed."

"Earlier tonight, I heard that he fell in love with a mortal and then killed her, is that correct?"

"Yes. That is correct. I couldn't very well have my best soldier frolicking around with the enemy now, co