Chapter 34: Emeriel's eyes widened. The growl was so frightening he felt an overwhelming urge to flee. To run and never look back. Even Aekeira's eyes bulged. Yet, instead of running, she clutched his hands tightly. "Run, Em. Escape from this place. Leave the southern wings altogether! Go!" "Let's go together!" Emeriel tried again, desperately. "What in Tartarus are you two doing!?" Madam Livia barked at them, coming into view. "Come here this instant, Emeriel!" Emeriel desperately wanted to protest. He opened his mouth… "Right. This. Instant." Madam Livia punctuated her words with anger. Another growl pierced the air, even more thunderous than the first. Swallowing hard, Emeriel reluctantly released Aekeira's hand. He walked away toward the head maid. "Enter, Aekeira. Emeriel, come with me." Madam Livia marched off, leaving him to follow. Emeriel complied and followed. But a part of him-the same instinctual part that urged him to run and never look back-screamed at him to stay. With every step he took away, his skin prickled, and a sensation akin to needles spread through his body. Stay, stay, stay! Aekeira entered the forbidden chambers through the narrow gate beside the much larger one. It was small and slim, likely designed by the Urekai to allow them to enter in their human forms without having to open the main gate. She stood frozen, like a mouse caught in a trap, her heart pounding as the towering beast loomed above her. Its menacing growls reverberated through the air, filling the room with an ominous presence. Tonight, the feral king seemed even more restless than it had been the other night. ᗰσ???????? υ???????????????????????? ι???? ɢ????????????????????????????????.???????????? The beast drew closer, cautiously sniffing her. Its predatory instincts were on high alert. Aekeira held her breath, terrified that the slightest movement would provoke its wrath. The beast's massive hand reached out, its claws pressing against her arms, lifting her off the ground with ease. In one swift motion, it dropped her into another corner of the dark room, deliberately positioning her far from the door. Then, the beast turned its attention to the door. Taking two steps forward, it halted and raised both hands. Aekeira watched in awe and horror as the creature exerted an astonishing force, pushing against the sturdy oak door. With a resounding crash, the door gave way, splintering into fragments. Behind the shattered remnants stood the imposing metal gates. The king beast pulled back, gathering momentum before hurtling itself at the gates. "Oh, the stars!" Aekeira thought, her body frozen with fear. She remained motionless, seated where the beast had left her, paralyzed by terror. Could the beast truly breach the metal gates and escape? It soon became clear why Grand Lord Vladya had been so certain the king beast would kill her that other night. The sheer strength of this creature was beyond comprehension-immeasurable, unfathomable. The beast was on the verge of escape, and yet, Aekeira found herself incapable of making even the faintest sound. Her fear was so intense that she came dangerously close to losing control of her bladder. Again and again, the beast threw itself at the door, each impact echoing with a deafening boom. Locks and keys succumbed to its power, crumbling beneath its force as the metal gates slowly swung open wide. Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!