Raine's POV 

We were led quickly by the palace guards through multiple corridors and flights of stairs. I remotely took notice of the splendor but missed all of the details in my nervousness. It took about fifteen minutes to actually make it to our intended destination.

When we reached the ornate double doors, I stopped and dug in my heels, pulling against Gen. Raed's hold on me. I was afraid of his wrath, but couldn't seem to stop myself. My heart was beating too quickly, and all of the air seemed to have evaporated from my lungs. I was surprised when he stood patiently, waiting for me to pull myself...