The Realm Of The Abyss

Chapter 14: Suspicion

Quinn's POV.

I was staring at nothing as we trudged back to the Kingdom of Narva. Everything that happened earlier is fresh in my mind up to now. I've learned and seen so much today.

I couldn't believe I'd witnessed people being killed and knocked unconscious right in front of me. That was the first time in my life that I had seen anything like that. I know it's kind of normal for them to do it as self-defense as it's what I saw in movies back then, but I didn't intend to witness it with my own eyes.

I didn't expect Alfaro to be pretty skilled in combat either. Well, it's a must for him because, aside from being a prince, his life is under threat.

I heaved a long breath. I don't feel safe in this place, realm, or whatever. But I knew I couldn't do anything because I didn't know when or how I was going to get out of here, or if I were able to get home safe and sound.

For a while, I tried to forget about everything that was bothering me and refocused my concentration on the road as Alfaro's horse slowed to a stop. After a long and exhausting journey, we arrived at their palace.

My pupils constricted as I noticed Alvaro standing outside their palace, as if he was waiting for someone. Perhaps he and His Majesty returned early. His head was bowed, and his hands were buried in his pockets.

Upon seeing us coming, he turned to look at me. He approached us and reached out his hand to help me in getting down.

Without saying anything, Alfaro passed by us and went into the palace. I ignored him and returned my attention to Alvaro.

"I'm certain you're exhausted from your long journey. Let's stay inside so you can rest," he said, and he was the first to enter. I kept my lips sealed and followed him.

We came across the King and Queen, who were actively conversing with Alfaro. They all seemed to be aware of the knee-weakening event that had occurred earlier.

"Fifteen men in black stopped us on our way back to the Kingdom," Alfaro explained. "I believe those are King Philip's people."

I remembered the new name I had heard. Perhaps the King Philip he was referring to was the King of Corax.

"What else happened, princess?" Surprisingly, His Majesty asked me to share a portion of what had happened, which attracted their attention.

I was overcome with nervousness and didn't know what to say. My mind had gone blank. I cleared my throat and scrambled to come up with anything to say to the king.

"T-They attacked us, Your Majesty," I stammered, my voice shaking with fear.

The king nodded and fell silent for a split second before turning to face the guards who had gathered around us.

"Summon all of our warriors. Increase the numbers of border officials, as well as patrols. Tighten security and make certain that no outsiders enter our kingdom while the celebration takes place tomorrow. Report to me if you see anyone suspicious. We must exercise extra caution and rigor. The threat of war could be on our doorstep," His Majesty instructed.

"You can rely on us, Your Majesty," the guards and personnel responded before bowing to the king and departing.

I stole a glance at Alvaro, but was taken aback when I caught him red-handed, gazing at me. He inched closer to me.

"Were you hurt? Did they threaten you?" he questioned as he examined my arm and my entire face.

I could hear his worry and concern in his tone, but I couldn't figure out how he kept his poker face on.