Page 59 of Alien Prince

“Just lost in thought,” I replied, forcing a smile.

He studied me for a moment longer. “If there's anything I can assist with, you need only ask.”

“Thank you, Bayn,” I said sincerely. “I'll keep that in mind.”

He gave a slight bow before continuing on his way. Watching him depart, I wondered how deep the conspiracy ran and who else might be unknowingly entangled in its web.

The rest of the day unfolded in a blur of coordinated efforts. Ryler played his part flawlessly, allowing whispers of his supposed discontent to spread subtly through the ranks. Kas announced his impending departure on a diplomatic mission, the news met with feigned surprise and hidden glances among certain council members.

By evening, the palace was awash with an undercurrent of anticipation. The skies darkened to a deep indigo, stars emerging like pinpricks of light. The scent of night-blooming flowers filled the air, their fragrance sweet and heady.

I met with Kas and Ryler in a secluded alcove overlooking the illuminated gardens. The soft glow of lanterns cast a warm light over us, and the gentle sound of flowing water from a nearby fountain provided a soothing backdrop.

Bayn was otherwise occupied with his own duties.

“Any signs they've taken the bait?” I asked.

Kas nodded grimly. “Our sources indicate increased communication among the suspected conspirators. They're planning to make their move tonight.”

Ryler clenched his fists. “They're more brazen than I thought.”

“Then everything is in place,” I said, a mix of relief and apprehension washing over me.

Kas reached out, his hand brushing mine. “Stay close. If anything goes wrong...”

I met his gaze, the unspoken fears reflected in his eyes. Ryler placed a hand on each of our shoulders.

As night fully enveloped the palace, we took our positions. Hidden security forces were stationed strategically, and surveillance systems were monitored closely. The air was thick with tension, every sound amplified—the rustle of leaves, the distant call of nocturnal creatures, the whisper of footsteps.

Hours passed with excruciating slowness. My senses were heightened—the cool breeze against my skin, the metallic taste of adrenaline, the faint scent of smoke from torches lining the walkways.

Then, movement. Shadows detached from the darkness, figures creeping toward the supposedly unguarded sections of the palace. My heart pounded in my chest as I signaled to Kas and Ryler.

The trap was sprung.

Security forces moved swiftly, surrounding the conspirators before they could react. Shouts and the clashing of weapons shattered the silence. I watched from a safe distance, a mix of triumph and sorrow swirling within me.

Among those captured were faces I recognized—council members I'd dined with, advisors who had seemed loyal. The betrayal cut deep.

Kas stepped forward to address the detained conspirators. “You have been caught in the act of treason against the throne. Do you have anything to say in your defense?”

One of them sneered. “The throne has grown weak. Under your rule, we are vulnerable.”

Ryler's eyes flashed with anger. “And you thought undermining our unity would strengthen us?”

Another conspirator spat on the ground. “We did what we believed was necessary.”

Kas's expression hardened. “Your actions have endangered us all.”

As they were led away, a heavy silence settled over the courtyard. The cool night air seemed colder now, the victory tainted by the revelation of such deep-seated betrayal.

I approached Kas, placing a hand on his arm. “I'm sorry.”

He looked at me, weariness etched into his features. “You have nothing to apologize for. If not for you, this could have ended much differently.”

Ryler joined us, his demeanor subdued. “At least now we can begin to strengthen our defenses.”

I nodded. “And perhaps prevent something like this from happening again.”

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