The atmosphere within the dimly lit chamber was suffocating. Families of the noble lords huddled together, their whispers a mixture of fear and uncertainty. The flickering torchlight cast ominous shadows along the cold stone walls, accentuating the tension that gripped the air.
"How long must we stay here?" a woman muttered anxiously, clutching her child tightly.
"King Fredrik assured us of our safety. We must trust in his plan," an older man responded, though his voice wavered with doubt.
"Trust? Trust in what? Our lives are hanging by a thread!" another voice interjected, frustration evident.
A royal guard, standing near the entrance of the chamber, turned towards them. "You must remain calm. This place is secure—"
His words were abruptly cut off.
A sickening crack echoed through the chamber as the guard's head twisted unnaturally, spinning a full circle before his lifeless body crumpled to the ground. A chilling silence fell over the room for a heartbeat—then chaos erupted.
