The request left the Chief of the Royal Guards and his deputy baffled. The deputy, in particular, could not help but wonder what could possibly be so important that the King had come to their quarters himself, this early in the morning, only to request a private discussion with the Chief. It was unusual.

The King rarely came to their quarters without prior notice, and the fact that he had specifically asked Sir Tosin, the deputy, and the guards to excuse themselves made the situation even more suspicious.

Still, the deputy kept his thoughts to himself. He had no intention of questioning the King. Whatever his Majesty wished to discuss...