"What?" He narrowed his eyes, and a hint of caution flashed in his gaze.

I smiled and faced the crowd, unaffected by their stares. "Elder William, or perhaps I should still address you as my teacher. Do you remember teaching me about the meaning of loyalty to the royal family?"

"Of course," he replied.

"I can swear upon the Moon Goddess that I have devoted my love and loyalty to my mate, His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Kral," I declared.

Rising from my seat, I disregarded the expressions of those around me and looked at the elders with a knowing smile. Catherine's previous actions had made it clear that someone...