Chapter 119

The next morning, Roy and Bryan walked to the throne room, where the test of blood was going to take place.

They held hands as they walked, squeezing each other's fingers. They looked into each other's eyes, smiling bravely. They whispered words of encouragement and affection.

"Whatever happens, I love you," Roy said.

"I love you too," Bryan said.

They reached the throne room, where a large crowd was waiting for them. They saw the King and Queen, who sat on their thrones, looking tense and worried. They saw their siblings, who stood by their sides, looking supportive and proud.

Bryan’s eyes traveled across the room and he locked gazes with Alexander who stood by the side of the old maid, looking as cool as a cucumber but Bryan could smell his anxiety and fear from miles away. He was just faking the calm exterior.

They saw the priestess of the blood, who held a silver dagger and a golden chalice, looking solemn and ominous.

They felt a surge of fear and anxiety, but they did not let go