Tension and unease filled the atmosphere in the ancient castle. King Vlad, a dominant presence who had lived for over two millennia, exuded confidence, strength, and respect. However, he was becoming increasingly impatient with the lack of progress in locating his queen and princess, who had been absent for six years.
Seated on his throne, he tapped his fingers restlessly on the armrest while listening to his advisors. The two men were tall and thin, garbed in black and mostly concealed by their hoods. Though loyal, their inability to find who he was searching for was trying the King’s patience to its limits.
“What progress have we made in our quest to find them?” he demanded, his voice betraying his impatience.
“Your Majesty, we have scoured every likely location,” one advisor respond
