Chapter 6
ERIK
I managed to release my anger about my doomed meeting with the elders by pacing up and down the corridor outside the council room, practically wearing a hole in the stones underfoot.
After that, I wandered aimlessly through the castle hallways. Soon enough, I ended up totally disorientated.
It began to dawn on me all over again—I didn’t know this place. I hadn’t yet had a chance to become familiar with the layout. I had no bolt holes, no secret corners, nowhere I could go to lick my wounds.
This was my domain—my literal castle—and I was lost.
All the servants I passed along the way inclined their heads with deference, but from the sideways looks on their faces it was clear they saw me for what I was. A total stranger.
Worthy of respect, sure. I was their king, now. Bu
