Chapter 1865

Preston's laughter grew wilder, veering into madness. Perseus took a slow drag from his cigarette. The ember flared briefly before he flicked it—straight into Preston's mouth. Preston shrieked, choking as he instinctively tried to spit it out. But Perseus was faster. He grabbed the car's ashtray and shoved it into Preston's mouth. Only when the cigarette was fully extinguished did Perseus finally let go. Gagging, Preston tumbled out of the car, spitting out ashes. He stuck out his tongue—it was blistered and raw. The pain twisted his face into an ugly grimace as he shot Perseus a furious glare. Perseus glanced at him and said, "I'll tell you this once—listen carefully. If even a strand of Catherine's hair is harmed, I, Perseus Caitford, swear on my life—I'll slaughter ten thousand Jorlandians." With that, he stepped on the gas. The car door shut on its own, leaving Preston in the dust. Perseus had long shed his naivety. Preston's sudden appearance was suspicious, but his thre