The older guard’s hands shook as he clasped them together, voice cracking. “P-Please… sir… forgive us… we… we didn’t mean any disrespect. We… we just… thought—” “The villa… the papers… your authority…” the younger guard stammered, eyes wide, almost pleading. “We… we weren’t trying to challenge you. Please… just… forgive our ignorance…” Dylan’s gaze hardened, ice replacing any trace of softness. He stepped closer, letting the sun catch the papers in his hand. “Forgive you?” His voice dropped, slow and deliberate. “No. I don’t forgive arrogance… ignorance… or cowardice masquerading as obedience.” The older guard stumbled backward, shaking his head. “W-what… sir? You… you can’t—” “I can, and I will,” Dylan interrupted sharply. “Consider your positions terminated. Effective immediately. Clear your belongings. You are no longer employed here.” The younger guard’s mouth opened and closed, speechless. “B-but… sir… we… we—” “You failed to recognize authority. You failed to respect reali