The Lycan King's Fate Calling

Crystal's POV:

Rufus' words made me realize that we had dawdled for a considerable amount of time. I hurried to catch up with his long strides. sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ (F)indNƟvᴇl.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

I told myself that we would find Arron soon, and made sure that I had enough energy for the inevitable battle waiting for us.

Rufus pulled the map out of his pocket. I peered over his shoulder, dumbstruck at what I was seeing. It looked just like an abstract artwork done by some kindergartener! I frowned at the mess of lines and colors. If I didn't know better, I would have thought that this... thing had been designed to purposely confuse and mislead people.

"How are we supposed to read this?" I muttered under my breath.

"We're heading south," Rufus said without missing a beat, though he did take a few additional glances at the map before folding it again. He then led me down a side road.

I trailed behind him readily. He always had better navigation skills than me. I had every confidence that he would take us to our destination without a hitch.

Sure enough, after passing through a sparse forest, we arrived at a mushroom-shaped building about six floors high.

a white railing, and two men stood guard at the entrance, both of them wearing blue masks. After a moment's observation, we learned that only those with invitations were allowed entry. I supposed

then.

moved forward, Rufus presented his invitation, and then we were

entirely. Thick tapestries hung on the walls, completely blocking out all the light. No lamps were in sight. Instead, candles lit up the place from their places high up on

short, wand-like cylinder. But we hadn't been given anything at all. I flagged down

them to the members of the audience who might not be able to see clearly

nodded in understanding and

me over to

afforded us the perfect view of the stage, and there was ample space between the seats, ensuring the patrons of

just as well, as our conversations were better kept

riding a unicycle appeared onstage. He proceeded to perform one dangerous

close to the stage I found myself flinching every time the clown approached. Despite knowing that it was all a show,

leaned back against my chair and grew increasingly vigilant as the seconds ticked by. As it was, I noticed that the clown was wearing a unique mask, one

he picked up a microphone. I