Austin and Alina arrived at the palace after nightfall. Their hearts were pounding hard as the trusted guard led them through a hidden entrance used by the guards. The narrow stone corridors were cold and dimly lit only by flickering torches.
After walking quietly for a few minutes, they finally reached the king's private council chamber. The king was already waiting for them inside. He looked exhausted but his eyes were still burning with rage.
They entered and stopped a few steps away. The king didn't say anything. Then, after a few seconds, Chancellor Crane entered the chamber. The moment he entered, the king raised his hand.
"Everyone else, leave us. Now," he ordered.
The servants and guards immediately walked out. Then suddenly the king slammed his fist onto the table. Instead of shouting at Austin and Alina, he turned to Crane.
"Did I give you permission to hunt them across my kingdom like animals?" the king roared.
Crane remained perfectly still.
