Gabriel could not return home without knowing there would be someone on his side to punish Selene. He was bringing the chance for the king to put Xavier in his place and to make an example out of Selene.
Gabriel rode to the palace instead of going home. He couldn't go to his mother so soon to see her in that condition. There was an awful feeling about what awaited her by the end of the night.
When Gabriel reached the palace, he demanded to be seen by the king. He was at first turned away since he didn't give proper notice of wanting to see the king and was told the king was busy until he mentioned Xavier's name.
Gabriel had some hope the visit would go well when he stepped into the king's quarters. "King Darius."
