The sound of clashing steel echoed through the halls as Kael and Alina made their way to the eastern wing, flanked by his elite guards. The palace was in chaos; servants and courtiers scrambled for safety as armed rebels clashed with Kael's soldiers.
Alina stayed close to Kael, her heart pounding in her chest. She had never been in the midst of a battle before, but she forced herself to stay calm. Kael's presence beside her, steady and unflinching, gave her an unexpected sense of reassurance.
As they approached the heart of the conflict, they were met by Captain Aric, one of Kael's most loyal commanders. "The rebels have barricaded themselves in the eastern tower," Aric reported, his face grim. "They are using hostages to negotiate Lady Vivienne's release."
Kael's jaw tightened. "We do not negotiate with traitors," he growled, his eyes flashing with fury. "We take the tower by force."
Alina stepped forward. "Wait," she said, her mind racing. "If you attack now, the hostages will be the first to die. Let me speak to them. Perhaps I can buy us some time."
Kael turned to her, his expression a mix of disbelief and curiosity. "Why would they listen to you?" he asked, his voice cold.
"Because they see me as an outsider," Alina replied. "They don't know where my loyalties lie. Let me try to convince them that you are willing to negotiate."
Kael stared at her for a long moment, then finally nodded. "Very well," he said. "But if you betray me, I will kill you myself."
Alina nodded, a shiver running down her spine. "I understand."