CHAPTER 22 I ran. I ran behind Burk, my breath ragged and my mind foggy from the shock, as he called door after door. We reached the king’s chambers in mere minutes. The corridor leading to his chambers buzzed with guards and court members in their sleeping attire. “Move away!” Burk boomed in an amplified voice that rang through the corridor. All the murmuring and movement stopped for a split second, and everyone stepped back, clearing a path for us. Rhein. I curled my hands into fists, trying to stop the shakes, as I stepped into his chambers behind Burk. Breathe, you fool, I told myself. For fairies’ sake, breathe and don’t cry. Don’t you dare cry. Inside, we were met by Madam Fabia, who stood still, ready to help if needed, her face focused and her eyes razor sharp. But I could see

