98 NINETY EIGHT: To Live Another Day

"You know it too, don't you?" Soren hissed. "I'm just mad enough to kill you right here and now."

Kel winced as his words stung at her ears. She didn't want to believe him, but there was no use pretending he wasn't right. The man was unpredictable, violent and straight up crazy at times. It was impossible for her to confidently predict what his next move would or wouldn't be under any circumstances.

"Since you two want me to be the bad guy so badly," Soren continued in a low voice, dragging Kel with him as he stepped back, "I'll do it."

The emperor stayed obediently frozen in place as Soren made his way, Kel in tow, out the door and into the hall. After stepping outside the room, Soren stopped for a few minutes, making sure the emperor wasn't following.

"Geez," he sighed, ruffling his hair with his free hand, "The things I have to go through just to make you two behave."

"I'm sure this is so hard for you," Kel mumbled sarcastically.