The guards moved more quickly than anyone wearing such heavy armor ought to. Still, they didn't seem to tire as they took the stairs two at a time. Their weapons were drawn, and judging by the grim set to their faces, they were fully prepared for a fight. The royal family might have trusted Thazel Daragon, but that trust was not shared by the court. Besides, look where it had gotten them?<br/><br/>The doors to Aereze's bedchambers were thrown open, but the real spectacle was just outside. Magical vines had burst through the tile floor, turning the hallway into a hopeless tangle. The prince's personal guard were entwined, their limbs bound so tightly they couldn't even draw their weapons to free themselves. That didn't stop them from struggling with all their strength, unwilling to give up on their duties so quickly. Seeing reinforcements arrive, one of them said, "Thank the gods! She has the prince. Hurry!"<br/><br/>Sure enough, armored footfalls could be heard moving farther and farther up the stairs. The king's guard followed, climbing the spiral stairway high into the tower. They were at the highest point in the palace by the time they caught up to her; the prince's study, a circular room with a personal library and a table littered with books, scrolls, and arcane reagents. There was a single window, but only one exit, which the guards now blocked.<br/><br/>Thazel whipped around, looking for all the world like a cornered animal. Her eyes were wide, and she was out of breath. The prince was slung over her shoulder. His hands were bound and he was gagged, and there was a dazed look in his eyes.<br/><br/>"Halt!" the guards commanded. One of them drew a bow and nocked an arrow, but hesitated for fear of harming Aereze. In that moment, Thazel turned and put her fist through the window.