Another blink brought them inside the castle itself, and Arthur was shocked by the transformation in the king's demeanor. Gone was the composed, gentle father who had read bedtime stories to his daughters. In his place was a man driven by desperation and fear, his voice raised in urgent commands as he shouted at everyone within the castle walls.
"Leave! Everyone must leave immediately!" the king bellowed, his voice echoing through the grand hallways. "Get out now, or I will have you removed by force!"
Arthur watched as servants, guards, and courtiers who had served the royal family faithfully for years were suddenly being expelled from their home with threats of violence if they didn't comply quickly enough. The king's eyes were wild with panic and determination, and his hand never moved far from his sword hilt as he supervised the chaotic evacuation.
