Fear

"You're the son of General Segard Alines and I acknowledge that," Steven Rafe said to the man kneeling before him. "But why are you here? You enter the King's chamber in secret in the middle of the night. Don't you know that it's a crime that can cost you your life?"

"I'm aware of that, Your Majesty," Sewel Alines responded and lowered his gaze again. "I come here risking my five years' efforts and my life. I change my name and come here as a palace guard, Your Majesty. Tonight is my first shift here and I have already waited for this chance for a long time.

"I beg you to hear me out, Your Majesty. After that, I will accept any punishment for my action."

The young man was quite daring and it surprised the King. Not just that, he was feeling amused too and for the first time since the General's son appeared, he lowered his guard.