19. Kneel Before Me

Damon’s face twisted in anger as he straightened himself, refusing to back down.

“Bow down? Over my dead body!” he snarled, glaring at Henry.

“I’ll never bow down to a commoner like you, Knight!”

Grandmother Woods, who had been watching in silence, suddenly struck the floor with her walking stick. The loud crack echoed through the room, making everyone jump. Her face was red with fury, her eyes narrowing at Damon.

“You fool!” she shouted, her voice filled with authority.

“I don’t care how rich or powerful you think you are. You swore on my ancestor’s name, in front of my late husband’s ashes, that you would honor this bet. You think you can walk away from that without consequence? You’ll bring a curse upon yourself and this family!”

Damon’s eyes widened, but he quickly masked his fear with a sneer.

“I’ll never bow to anyone. Not Henry. Not you. No one!”

Grandmother Woods’ grip tightened on her stick.

“As much as I hate that man,” she spat, pointing toward Henry,

“I’ll never a