The King's Favor ( Radioapple )

★ Chapter Four ★

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Husk paced nervously at the back of the tall neon tower in Pentagram City, the bright lights casting long shadows on the ground. He checked his watch for what felt like the hundredth time, anxiety gnawing at him. Angel was late, and Husk couldn't help but fear the worst.

Finally, the door creaked open, and Husk held his breath. To his immense relief, Angel emerged, glancing around cautiously. When he spotted Husk, his face lit up, and he hurried over.

"Husk, babe!" Angel whispered, throwing his arms around Husk in a tight hug. "I made it out."

Husk hugged him back, feeling the tension in his body slowly ease. "Thank Satan," he muttered. "I was getting worried."

Angel pulled back slightly, looking into Husk's eyes. "You and me both. Valentino would've killed me if he caught me sneaking out."

Husk nodded, a grim expression on his face. "Yeah, well, we can't let that happen. I talked to His Majesty. He said you can stay at the palace, as long as you stay in my room and don't get in his way."

Angel's eyes widened with gratitude. "Really? Oh, Husk, that's amazing! Thank you so much."

Husk smiled, though the worry never left his eyes. "Don't thank me yet. We still have to get out of here without being seen."

Angel nodded, his usual playful demeanor replaced by seriousness. "Right. Let's go."

They moved quickly but cautiously through the dark alleyways, sticking to the shadows to avoid detection. The neon lights of Pentagram City cast an eerie glow on their path, and the sounds of the city's nightlife created a constant background noise.

As they turned a corner, Husk's ears twitched, picking up a faint sound. "Wait," he whispered, pulling Angel into a dark alcove.

A group of Valentino's goons walked by, their voices low but menacing. Husk held his breath, praying they wouldn't be spotted. After what felt like an eternity, the goons moved on, oblivious to their presence.

Husk exhaled slowly. "That was close."

Angel nodded. "Too close. We need to keep moving."

They continued their journey, hearts pounding in their chests. Despite the danger, Husk couldn't help but feel a sense of determination. He had to get Angel to safety, no matter what.

Finally, the palace loomed ahead, its grand structure a stark contrast to the chaotic city behind them. They slipped through the gates, which Niffty had discreetly left unlocked for them.

As they entered the palace, Angel looked around in awe. "Wow, this place is incredible."

Husk smiled, feeling a sense of pride. "Yeah, it's something, all right. Come on, let's get you settled."

--

Angel settled into Husk's room, taking in the surroundings and trying to make himself comfortable. The room was cozy, with a few personal touches from Husk scattered around. Angel sighed, feeling a sense of relief that he was finally in a safe place.

A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and Niffty bounced in, her energy as infectious as ever. "Husk, is Angel here yet?" she asked excitedly, her eyes darting around the room until they landed on Angel. "Oh, there you are! Welcome to the palace, Angel!"

Angel grinned. "Hey, Niffty. I was starting to wonder if you still lived here. I half-expected you to greet me the moment I walked in."

Niffty giggled, waving a hand dismissively. "I've been busy! His Majesty has been treating some guests, and I've had to help out. You wouldn't believe how much work it is."