After sending the word to his wives, Kael walked down the marble corridor toward the Queen's quarters. The halls were quieter than usual, only the distant sounds of servants beginning their day echoing faintly in the background.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Queen's private wing, he was immediately halted by the stationed guards.
They offered a polite bow before blocking his path.
"We greet you, Lord Moonstone," one said formally. "However, Her Majesty is currently resting and has requested not to be disturbed unless the matter is of grave importance."
Kael hesitated for a moment. Had he been the old Kael, he wouldn't even have bothered going like this. He would have merged into shadows, slipping past the guards and entering the Queen's chamber without needing any permission, for he had the permission to report to her at any time he wanted. Unfortunately, he wasn't that person anymore.
