The Lockdown

Austin stood resolute before the imposing palace gates, a mixture of frustration and concern churning within him. The news of Bloom's poisoning and her ensuing deep slumber had reached his ears, and he couldn't bear the thought of her suffering alone. His unwavering determination to see her, to ensure her safety, had led him to the palace gates, but the stern refusal of the guards to grant him entry left him seething with frustration.

"I'm here to see Liam, and I'm certainly no stranger," Austin declared, his voice tinged with urgency and genuine concern for Bloom.

The guards exchanged wary glances, clearly torn between their loyalty to their alpha and the familiarity of the face standing before them. They were well aware of Austin's close relationship with Liam, but their duty was to adhere to the orders they had received.

"We are aware of your connection," one of the guards began, "but even the Alpha himself has suspended all activities that require him to leave the palace grounds.