In the distant Ashen clan's stronghold, a knock reverberated through a stark office.
"Enter," commanded a woman, her face devoid of the warmth she'd once shown beside her husband. A cloaked figure in black entered, delivering a letter with a respectful bow. She scanned it, her lips curling into a grin. 'So, he killed him.'
"This boy has just killed a family member. What should be done?" she asked, her tone probing.
"He should stand before the law court," the figure replied stoically.
"But he doesn't know our law?" she pressed, her eyes glinting.
"Anyone who attacks a member in ignorance must be killed," the figure stated.
"Yet, this boy is also a family member," she countered, relishing the exchange.
"A family member ignorant of our rules should be taught and answer for his crimes," the figure concluded.
"Taught, huh," she mused, nodding. "Yes, that's what we'll do."
The figure bowed and exited.
