Chapter 173 Book 4 Hostage 2
The grand hall of the imperial palace was in chaos. The golden pillars gleamed under the flickering candlelight, casting long shadows over the tense confrontation. The royal guards had drawn their weapons, their polished armor reflecting the firelight as they encircled the group from Xian Town. At the front of the line stood Long Hai, unwavering, his expression unreadable as he wiped the blood from his sword.
Meanwhile, unnoticed by most, a small figure had already slipped behind the towering throne.
Li An moved with precision, her light steps making no sound against the polished marble floor. As the royal guards closed in on Long Hai for a second attack, she suddenly stumbled from behind the throne, her small body colliding against King Hao's back. The impact was light, yet it sent ripples of tension through the hall.
King Hao stiffened, turning his head in surprise, but before he could react, he felt the cold touch of a dagger against his neck.
