King Edward sat impatiently in his ornate throne, glaring at the entrance of his council room. The late hour had raised his ire, and he made no effort to hide his annoyance as Hunter, his trusted advisor, finally arrived.

Hunter, however, remained unfazed by the king's displeasure. He knew his duty was more important than the king's mood, and he focused on the purpose of the meeting. Ignoring the venomous glares being thrown his way, he spoke with calm determination.

"Your Majesty, I have gathered some vital information about Alyssa," Hunter began, fixing his gaze on the king. "It seems she is not with her family at the moment."

The...