The wind bit cold across Lucian's cheeks as he slipped through the narrow passage carved between the old kitchens and the outer stone wall. Erin moved like a shadow beside him, quiet and small, holding the satchel close to his chest.
The two of them were no longer in the heart of the palace. They had made it out halfway across the southern wing and past the outer courtyard where the guards changed shifts at night. They moved fast, avoiding torchlight, counting steps in silence. A few more turns, and they would be near the grove where palace riders trained just beyond that, the forest, and freedom.
Lucian's heart was steady. He had planned since the moment they released him. No shouta,№sing. No rebellion. Just vanish like mist.
They were almost there, until the sound of hooves struck the earth.
He froze.
It was distant at first, soft thuds riding the wind. But then the forest rustled, and the quiet night air became noisy.
Erin turned, whispering, "They're coming."
Lucian grabbed his arm and pulled him into the shadows beneath a low tree. They crouched, still and breathless.
But it was too late.
From the treeline, five horses broke through. Riders in deep navy cloaks not just palace guards. Royal scouts. Crown-loyal. Fast, precise, and summoned only for high-priority retrieval.
Lucian cursed under his breath. He'd miscalculated. Of course they wouldn't leave the back unguarded.
One of the riders pulled ahead, and Lucian recognized him instantly not a guard.
Sebastian.
The Grand General pulled his horse to a halt before Lucian. The other riders fanned out, cutting off any escape down the slope.
Lucian rose slowly from the shadows. He didn't run. He didn't reach for the dagger at his hip. He simply met Sebastian's gaze.
"You move quietly for a royal tutor," Sebastian said calmly.
Lucian said nothing.
Erin stepped forward to speak, but Lucian raised a hand, silencing him.
"I suppose you'll drag me back now," Lucian said.
"What were u expecting," came another voice one deeper, clipped with control.
Alaric, mounted just behind, came into view, dark cloak trailing down his steed's side like blood-soaked silk.
"Am impressed on how u gathered courage to escape Lord Lucian, that's very impressive for someone like you."the Crown Prince said.
Lucian said"Anyone can gather courage this leave this kingdom filled with madness."
"Impressive" Alaric said plainly. You should have planned your escape properly then."
Lucian looked between them. Sebastian, calm and unreadable. Alaric, sharp-eyed and dangerous. The scouts, silent and obedient.
He could fight. He could run.
But he would lose.
So he didn't.
Instead, Lucian lifted his chin slightly, staring straight at Alaric.
"And tired of being dragged into this messed up world."
"Thats how life works, Lord Lucian. Is either u control it or it controls you" Alaric said.
Lucian exhaled through his nose, sharp and bitter. "But it's doesn't apply for you guys."
Alaric studied him a moment longer and said "Enough with the logics. Are you coming with us or not?"
"It's doesn't seem like I have any other option." Lucian said.
"Alright then, Good choice". Alaric said signalling the guards to escort Lucian and Erin back in the palace.
The journey back was quiet. Lucian rode behind Alaric, flanked on all sides. He didn't speak. He didn't tremble. He just watched the road, watched the riders, and counted every possible exit they passed.
By the time the palace came into view, his expression was unreadable and emotionless
Erin leaned in as they dismounted. "Are they going to put us in the dungeon, Lord?"
Lucian glanced at him sideways. "Am not sure,Erin."
They didn't take him to the dungeon this time. He was brought straight to his chambers, guarded, of course, but his own nonetheless.
Lucian walked to the window and stared out at the palace grounds. The stars above the royal spires were dim tonight.
Behind him, Alaric finally spoke.
"You're quick-witted, Lucian. That's why we gave you the position. Don't insult it by trying to run again."
Lucian turned to face him. "Why did you name me tutor? You think I know something about Reniel's death?"
"I think," Alaric said slowly, "you're dangerous in ways even you don't realize. And if someone like you is going to walk freely in this kingdom… I'd rather have you under my roof."
Lucian gave a thin smile. "Interesting"
Alaric looked at the guards and said . "Make sure, nothing like this happens again. And he looks at Lucian and said "Your induction is tomorrow, so be there".
Then Lucian lowered his eyes, tone soft and submissive. "Your command has be done."
"Good," Alaric said and turned to leave.
When he left, the door closed with a heavy finality behind him.
Lucian remained standing.
Erin slowly stepped forward. "So… that's it? You're giving in?"
Lucian didn't answer immediately. He moved to the desk, picked up the scrolls bearing the crest of the Serathine bloodline, and studied the signature beneath it.
Crown Prince Alaric Serathine.
Approved by General Sebastian.
Endorsed by the Second Prince, Alistair.
The same three men Reniel once tutored and controlled. The most feared trio in the kingdom.
"What if I did the same thing Reniel did and make them mine, it will surely secure my safety here giving me space to plan how am going to leave it madness." Lucian muttered to himself smiling.
Lucian turned to Erin, his voice cold and clear. "I'm not giving in and going to take control."
Erin blinked. "How my Lord, we have no power to declare or state that."
"U think?" Lucian asked sharply.
Erin nodded.
"Don't worry about it, Erin. Soon all the power will be ours." Lucian said smiling at Erin, who was undoubtedly confused at what his master was trying to say.
He paused, then added softly, "Since they want me to stay within the palace and become the next royal tutor, I will make sure that I use it properly."
Erin still in a confused state said "I still don't understand, my lord."
Lucian's smile returned small, dangerous. "You don't have to understand, Erin. I'll wear their collars if I must. Smile. Obey. But every step I take will twist the chain back in my hands."
He moved to the mirror, tying his hair with slow precision.
"Tomorrow," he murmured, "the court will see a new tutor."
Lucian met his gaze in the mirror.
"A man who intends to own the throne they think they're offering." and turned to Erin and said to him. "Prepare my bathtub, let me go and freshen up."
"Okay, my lord." Erin said bowing down and left.
Lucian looked at the mirror once again and smiled.