173 Dance of Shadows and Deception

Vampire Kingdom of Imperion

Palace

Prince Maximilian Knight had always avoided visiting the palace. He despised the idea of standing in front of the King, pretending to be someone he was not. But today was different. He found himself inside the King's study, seated across from the monarch, separated only by a table. Normally, Maximilian would be the one smiling, while the King wore a frown on his handsome face. But this time, the roles were reversed.

"You sent them to the maze?" the King asked, raising an eyebrow inquisitively.

"I did," Max responded confidently, devoid of any trace of embarrassment. He elegantly lifted the teacup in front of him and took a sip. "This tea is good," he said.

"Did you send them there to die?" the King's voice carried a mix of astonishment and concern.

"Perhaps," Max replied with a smile, seemingly unaffected by the gravity of the situation.