Han Feng 38      

Turning to the armored man seated before her, Mei spoke, her voice laced with forced composure. "Why are we straying from His Majesty's path?"

 

The guard did not answer immediately. His grip on the reins remained firm, his posture unyielding.

 

A cold prickle ran down her spine.

 

"I asked you a question," she pressed, her tone sharpening.

 

At last, the man turned his head slightly, his face expressionless as he delivered the words that shattered her world.

 

"You are being taken to King Xiang's territory. From this day forth, you will serve him for the remainder of your days."

 

Mei's breath caught. A hollow ringing filled her ears. King Xiang?

 

No. No, this couldn't be.