Rick's mind buzzed with the implications of the book's contents. The curse that Kael had discovered could be the key to stopping the King's brother, but it also posed a grave danger. If the curse was awakened, it could spiral out of control, leading to catastrophic consequences for the entire kingdom.
He carefully hid the book under the mattress of his crib, ensuring it was well concealed. Then, he lay back, trying to piece together everything he had learned. The King's brother was dangerous, that much was clear, but the curse added another layer of complexity to the situation. Rick needed to be careful—one wrong move could set off a chain of events that he might not be able to stop.
The next morning, Rick awoke to find the palace in a state of heightened tension. The King's brother had called a meeting of the nobles, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Rick knew he had to find a way to attend, to hear firsthand what was being discussed.
He waited until Marie had left the room, then quickly dressed himself in the simple clothes he had hidden away. They were far from the regal attire he was expected to wear, but they allowed him to move more freely and blend in with the palace staff.
Chick appeared beside him, his expression serious. "You're going to the meeting, aren't you?"
"I have to," Rick replied. "If I don't, I'll miss my chance to find out what they're planning."
Chick nodded, though his worry was evident. "Just be careful. The King's brother is no fool—he'll be watching for any sign of trouble."
"I know," Rick said, steeling himself. "Let's go."
They moved quickly through the palace, avoiding the main corridors where the guards were stationed. Rick had memorized the layout of the palace during his time here, and he knew exactly where to go to stay out of sight.
When they reached the meeting chamber, Rick hid behind a large tapestry that hung just outside the room. From this vantage point, he could hear the voices of the nobles as they gathered inside, their tones hushed but urgent.
"...cannot wait any longer," one of the nobles was saying. "The King's weakness is our opportunity. If we don't act now, we may never get another chance."
"The people are growing restless," another voice added. "They want a strong leader, someone who can restore order. The King's brother is the only one who can do that."
Rick's heart pounded as he listened. The rebellion was closer than he had feared. The nobles were ready to move against the King, and they were counting on the King's brother to lead them.
"We must be cautious," a third voice warned. "The King still has loyalists, and they will not go down without a fight. We need to ensure that when we strike, it is decisive."
There was a murmur of agreement, followed by a silence that stretched on uncomfortably. Then, the King's brother spoke, his voice smooth and commanding.
"You are all correct," he said. "The time for action is upon us. But we must not act hastily. The King may be weak, but he is still dangerous. We will strike when the time is right—when we have the advantage."
Rick felt a chill run down his spine. The King's brother was far more cunning than he had anticipated. This wasn't just a grab for power—it was a carefully orchestrated plan to seize control of the entire kingdom.
As Rick listened, he realized he had to get this information to the King. But how? The King barely acknowledged him, and Rick