Chapter 68: Taking permission.
I looked down at the note in my hand.
I was confused and suspicious. Why was he so eager to hang out with me?
Even to the point where he exercised his royal power and gave me a day off from duty.
That was the kind of move you pulled for your bestfriend or a girl you love.
Not a stranger you met a few hours ago.
From the corner of my eye I could see Liam approaching. I tucked the badge into my clothes.
No need to let them know what was going on.
What good would it do anyway?
They would be worried for me as much as I was already worried for myself.
Zoe might even try something rash or unwise just to protect me.
I didn't need them being involved in whatever the prince planned for me.
I could handle myself just fine.
"Hey dude". Liam said and waved at me.
"How was training?" I asked him.
He shrugged. "Nothing much, just some basic lessons".
"You made it in time for class". He noted. "I didn't think you would".
"You didn't?" I asked.
"Yeah dude".
"I even made a bet with Aaron". He rubbed the back of his head. "I'm going to have to put up".
He saw the confused look on my face and smiled apologetically.
"You should have seen your face when you came to the room dude. You could barely keep your eyes open. I thought you were going to crash on the bed and not wake up till evening".
I couldn't blame him for not thinking I would make it in time for training. I was very exhausted and if I looked half as exhausted as I felt, any gamble would have taken the odds.
Damon giving me the pass was a blessing because as soon as I showed it to the chief guard and got my leave, I would crash on the bed and get some well deserved shut eye.
Liam looked around for Aaron. "I've got to go now. See you later". He said and disappeared.
I nodded and bade him goodbye.
I started walking towards the empress's quarters.
I needed to show the chief my note and get leave.
As for whatever Damon was planning for me, I would cross the bridge when it came.
When I got to the palace, I pushed the door open. Dan was leaning against the wall at the top of the staircase.
"You're late". He said looking down at me.
"The boss wouldn't be too happy".
I shrugged. I have a perfect excuse.
"Well it better be nothing short of perfect". I heard a deep voice say behind me.
I looked back to see Bruno the chief guard.
His face was set in a scowl as he looked me up and down.
I smiled nervously. "Well, the thing is I was busy helping prince Damon out".
I smiled inwardly at the surprised look on his face.
"I'm still not done". I said and pulled out the badge.
"This is him seeking permission to keep me for the rest of the day".
Bruno looked at the badge and his scowl deepened for a moment before it was replaced by a slightly sad look.
"Now what have you done to be involved with that miscreant?" He asked me.
I shrugged.