Derek could not hold back his anger anymore.
He lunged forward across the table. He reached out with both hands and grabbed Captain Nigel by the collar of his dirty shirt. He pulled the man up from his chair with terrifying strength, his knuckles turning white.
"You cowards!" Derek roared. His voice shook the small room. His dark eyes blazed with a murderous fury.
He pulled Nigel closer until their faces were inches apart.
"The Thompson army fought courageously!" Derek shouted in his face, spit flying from his lips. "My brother fought to protect this kingdom! Only to be betrayed by traitors and cowards like you! You sold your honor for your life!"
Captain Nigel did not fight back. He did not try to remove Derek's hands from his collar. He just hung there, tears streaming down his face.
"I know," Nigel wept loudly. "I am sorry, Your Grace. I am so sorry. I am guilty. I have lived with this shame every single day. I see their faces every time I close my eyes. I deserve to die."
