As Alina approached the barricaded tower, the tension in the air was palpable. She could hear the frightened whispers of the hostages and the angry shouts of the rebels. Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward, raising her hands to show she was unarmed.
"I come in peace!" she called out, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her insides. "I am Princess Alina of Veloria, sent by King Kael to negotiate."
There was a tense pause before a rough voice shouted, "Why should we trust you, foreigner?"
Alina's mind raced. "Because I am not one of his people," she said. "I have no reason to deceive you. I can help you, but only if you release the hostages. Do this, and I will convince the king to hear your demands."
There was another pause, and then, slowly, the barricade was lifted just enough for Alina to slip through. The rebels eyed her warily, their weapons drawn. Alina kept her hands visible, her heart pounding, but she forced herself to remain calm.
"What are your demands?" she asked, meeting the eyes of the rebel leader.
"Freedom for Lady Vivienne," he growled. "And safe passage out of the city."
Alina nodded slowly, pretending to consider his terms. "I will take your message to the king," she said. "But if you harm the hostages, I can guarantee that none of you will leave this palace alive."
The rebel leader studied her for a moment, then finally nodded. "You have one hour," he said. "If you do not return, the hostages die."