16: The Web Tightens

The palace was on high alert after Alina's warning. Kael doubled the guard, and his most trusted soldiers were assigned to investigate Lady Vivienne's actions. The once opulent corridors of the castle now thrummed with tension, as if the very walls were holding their breath.

Alina's accusations had cast her into the center of a storm. Many courtiers were skeptical of her motives, whispering that she had fabricated the plot to gain Kael's favor. But as the days passed, and Kael's investigation uncovered incriminating letters exchanged between Lady Vivienne and rebel forces, Alina's claims proved true.

Kael summoned Alina to his private chambers late one evening. She was escorted through the dark hallways by two grim-faced guards, their hands never straying far from their sword hilts. The atmosphere was thick with distrust, and Alina could feel the weight of eyes on her as she approached the king's door.

When she entered, Kael was alone, standing by a roaring fireplace. His figure was cast in shadow, his face illuminated only by the flickering flames. He turned slowly to face her, his piercing blue eyes studying her intently.

"You were right," he said, his voice devoid of the usual mockery. "Vivienne was plotting against me. The letters we found confirm it."

Alina let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "Then, you believe me?" she asked, searching his face for any sign of doubt.

Kael's gaze was hard, unreadable. "For now," he replied, taking a step closer to her. "But this palace is a pit of vipers, and I trust no one. Tell me, Alina, why do you risk so much to protect a king who is your enemy?"

Alina hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "Perhaps it is because I have no choice, Your Majesty," she said softly. "Or perhaps... I see that you are not the monster they say you are."

Kael's eyes flashed with something she couldn't quite read—anger, perhaps, or something deeper, something more vulnerable. But before he could respond, a knock came at the door, and the moment was broken.

A messenger rushed in, breathless and panicked. "Your Majesty, Lady Vivienne has been arrested, but... her allies have staged a revolt in the eastern wing of the palace. They are demanding her release."

Kael's expression darkened, and he turned to Alina. "It seems the game has only just begun," he said. "Come with me. I may yet need your cunning to survive this night."