"Your Majesty, Head Witch Gloria has been found dead in her house," the valet whispered in the King's ear. The King's smile vanished instantly. He left the hall abruptly, and Alaric, noticing his father's sudden departure, grew concerned.
Excusing himself from Scarlet's side, Alaric hurried to catch up with his father. When he finally reached him, he asked with a hint of urgency, "Father, is everything alright?"
"No. Gloria is dead. A vampire killed her," Esmond responded grimly.
"That's impossible," Alaric said, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief.
"It has happened. The witches are furious. Announce that the party is over and bring Izaak and Magnus to the carriage. We need to leave immediately," Esmond ordered. Without another word, he strode ahead with a few others.
Alaric stood frozen for a moment, his mind reeling from the news. Snapping back to reality, he rushed back to the grand hall, his heart pounding.
