CHAPTER THIRTY SEVEN

I hesitantly push open the door and a wave of mixed emotions wash over me. Silence fills the air and for a moment, I am relieved; I am not sure what to expect walking into this room and the stillness soothes my nerves. But then, I am reminded just how powerful of a presence Alden’s voice can fill a room with and I tense up, knowing that I must face him now.

This is not a room I am familiar with, but its grandness is unmistakable. Portraits line the walls of men who look just like Alden and Karken, wearing crowns on their heads and dates written underneath them. In the center is a circular table that takes up much of the space in the room. This table must have seen many important decisions made at the peak of this kingdom, such as right now when Alden and Karken sit around it. Khimaira is also next to Karken, her head peeking up to look at me when I come in, before quickly looking away and burying her head in Karken’ lap. I am conflicted; I am not sure if what she is doing is appropria