8 Chapter 8: Thrown Into the Midst

“Well, you came out of there relatively unscathed,” Elric said to her as they walked down yet another unfamiliar hall.

“I suppose so,” she replied, her mind drifting back to the unsettlingly way the King had been staring at her. “Where are we off to now?” she asked, looking around. They were deep in the castle now, farther in than she had been before.

“We are headed to the dining hall. Usually, I prefer to eat my meals in my rooms or outside, but since you have arrived, I have been instructed to eat with the family,” he replied with a scowl.

“Will the King be there?” she asked, dreading the response. Elric shook his head.

“No, he and the Queen eat in their private dining chamber unless it is an occasion,” he replied. Saffron felt relief surge through her.