Page 76 of Polestar
On his knees, panting, sweat slicking his forehead, he stared at his partially shifted hands, claws extended.The manacles bit into the flesh of his wrist as his body strained against the cuffs.
He willed calm and control throughout his body, removing the edge that allowed his body to return to full human form.
Save that for later.
Instinct later, thought now.
How to get out?
Once out, his way to freedom wouldn’t be too complex—as long as there weren’t many guards, or these chains, to contend with.
Remove chains, escape cell…
Three paces one way, three paces back.
The heavy lock clicked, drawing Magnus’ attention to the cell door.
The lockmaster swung it open, flanked by half a dozen guards.“It’s time.”
Magnus’ gaze flicked over their resolute faces.As far as he could tell, none were marked, but they were all prepared to carry out their orders.No matter what.
Magnus was no longer their prince.He was banished—a prisoner of the realm.
Now isn’t the time to escape.Not yet.
He nodded.
… maybe I can take Elias with me…
He buried that thought as quickly as it came and waited while the lockmaster unfastened his chains from the wall.
Magnus’ mind worked as they moved through the dungeon corridors, up the winding stone steps, twisting and turning down the too familiar halls of his former home.
My son’s home.Elias.
He couldn’t help block the thoughts of his son from his mind.He might see him again.
My boy.
No.
Ana.Ana needs my help.Ulla’s partners have her.She isn’t safe.
Magnus clenched his jaw, his instinct to protect both his son and his mate conflicting and overwhelming.
Every muscle in his body tensed as he passed through the open double doors into the ancient Great Hall.The sounds of his chains echoed through the vast room with each step toward his fate.
Two guards preceded him with two behind, and two on either side.More at key positions of the expansive room, as was expected when the king held court.
Escape wouldn’t be easy from here.He considered his other options as he moved forward.
At the far end, his father occupied the throne.Elias stood to the right of the throne while Ulla stood to the left.
Where is the shaman?
His father, his son, his former wife—the three people he’d committed his life to, before his banishment.
He sucked in a breath as unexpected emotions slammed through him.
