Betrayed By Blood
Selena stopped right at the large black gates of the palace, a sharp breath escaped her lips as she drew her cloak down. Before her were the palace guards scrutinizing each visitor before allowing them in.
The sight of the gates made her stomach churn, a sharp contrast to the last time she had been here when she still had the king's favor.
Taking a slow breath, she approached the guard stationed by the entrance. He barely spared her a glance as she whispered, "Bird."
His face flashed with recognition, and he gave her a curt nod. Without another word, he turned on his heel and walked away.
Selena forced herself to stay still, ignoring the anxious drum of her heartbeat. She wasn't foolish enough to think this would be easy.
Not less than ten minutes later, the guard returned, motioning for her to follow. Instead of leading her through the grand entrance, he walked off toward the side of the palace, guiding her through the back gate.
