36: Shadows of the Past

The revelation from Lord Alistair weighed heavily on Alina's mind. She could no longer see King Kael in the same light; he was no longer just a tyrant in her eyes but a man caught in the relentless grip of his past. The hidden library, the secret conversations, and the haunted look in Kael's eyes—they all pointed to a story far more complex than she had imagined.

However, the palace was more dangerous than ever. The discovery that someone had been leaking information to the rebels had put everyone on edge, and Kael's paranoia was at its peak. The atmosphere in the court was tense, with whispers of spies and traitors hiding in plain sight.

Alina knew she had to tread carefully. Her newfound knowledge could either be a weapon or a noose around her neck, depending on how she chose to use it.

That evening, as she wandered through the castle gardens to clear her mind, she stumbled upon Kael standing alone by the fountain. He was staring into the water, his expression distant, lost in thought. For a moment, Alina considered turning back, but something in the slump of his shoulders stopped her.

Without thinking, she approached him. "You look as if the weight of the world is on your shoulders, Your Majesty," she said softly.

Kael turned to her, his blue eyes cold and guarded as always. "I'm surprised you care, Princess," he replied with a hint of mockery. But there was no real malice in his voice, just exhaustion.

Alina hesitated before speaking again. "You may not believe me, but I do. I see things that others don't. I know there's more to you than what people say."

Kael's eyes flashed with something like surprise before he quickly masked it. "Be careful, Alina," he warned, his voice low. "Compassion is a luxury that can get you killed here."

But as he turned to leave, Alina caught a glimpse of something she hadn't seen before—vulnerability. Perhaps, she thought, there was still a chance to break through his defenses.