Once Sir Balin had succumbed to the group's onslaught, Salem gave him a swift, savage kick to the head to ensure he was dead. Then another, for spite. Then he spat on the fallen knight's face.

"'s what you get for sticking your nose where it don't belong. Should've stayed in your cushy southern courts, you ****."

============

When they were brought before the Cardinal for congratulations, Salem allowed himself a small but genuine smile. "We're honored by your trust, lord. May we earn the power to crush these fools."