The horses slowed as they entered the secret pathway that led toward the hidden gate of the palace.
The path was narrow and surrounded by tall rocks and thick trees. Anyone who did not know it existed would simply walk past it without noticing.
But something was wrong.
Even the secret pathway had guards.
They stood along the rocks, some hidden behind trees, others watching the road carefully with their hands on their weapons.
Eliora felt the tension immediately.
This place was supposed to be hidden. Why were there so many guards here?
Zarek's eyes narrowed slightly. A deep frown appeared on his face.
He turned to Maelina and gave her one look. Maelina understood immediately.
She straightened on her horse and quietly began whispering a chant under her breath.
One by one, the guards dropped to the ground. Their armor clanged softly against the stone as they fell.
Eliora gasped softly. "Are they… dead?" she asked.
Maelina shook her head.
