"We we so close! To be done in by a, a child!" His hands ball into fists. Having everything you've worked and sacrificed your whole life for suddenly snatched away is a crushing blow. He's had time to adjust, but thinking about it, talking about it, makes it hurt all over again.
"What did you mean then?" Rodolphus is used to Severus' circumlocutions. He almost always has to ask.
Hands still balled into fists, he leans forward and smashes them into the diagram, scattering sand and obliterating the lines. He's panting with rage and his face is flushed dark red. "HOW?!" he nearly howls. He turns to Severus, eyes anguished. "Tell me what to do," he begs.