Jehana pushed her way through the murmuring onlookers and came to a stop between Lord Ewan and the ever-elegant Ian. Morgan had never seen her look lovelier than she did at that moment, with her long auburn hair tumbling loose on her shoulders, and he regretted more than ever that he had never been able to make peace with Brion’s proud queen. She had thrown a pale mauve dressing gown over her sleeping garments, and that was clutched to her neck by a pale, slim hand that glittered with the jewels of Brion’s marriage ring.

“Your Majesty.” Morgan bowed, hoping to avoid further friction. “I regret the commotion, especially at this late hour. I assure you, it was none of my doing.”

Jehana’s face went hard, and her eyes gleamed like green ice. “None of your doing? Morgan, do you take me for an idiot? Do you think I don’t know about that guard you murdered in my very house? I think you owe me an explanation before I have you arrested and executed for murder!”

At that moment, Kelson appeared at the door, looking haggard and worn but very determined.

“Morgan has given sufficient explanation for me, Mother,” he said quietly, stepping out of his chambers to stand at Morgan’s side. “And there will be no arrests or executions here without my direct order.”

All but Jehana bowed deferentially as Kelson approached, and the boy returned their questioning stares unflinchingly.

“Gentlemen, you wonder at this night’s attempt on my life. So do I,” he continued evenly. “And no doubt we shall all be satisfied as to the details in due time.” His eyes swept his audience confidently. “But I warn you. Any further attempt to interfere with me in the next hours before my coronation will be considered treasonous. I shall tolerate no further questioning of either Morgan’s loyalty or my judgment. Is that clear? Disobey me, and you shall learn just how well my father taught me to be King of Gwynedd.”

The onlookers bowed in acknowledgement except for Jehana, who stood her ground and glared at Kelson.

“Would you defy me in something this important, my son?” she whispered. “Something I so strongly believe to be wrong?”

Kelson stood firm. “Go back to your chambers, Mother, please. I don’t wish to argue with you in front of my court.”

When she did not answer immediately, Kelson turned his attention to the guard captain, who had finished his search of the royal apartment and now assembled his men outside the door.

“Captain, I am retiring for the night—again. Will you kindly see that I am not disturbed? General Morgan will stay with me.”

“Sire!” the captain said, snapping to attention.

“And to you, gentlemen, Mother,” Kelson continued, “I shall see you all in the morning. In the meantime, I suggest that we all get some rest. Tomorrow will be no ordinary day.”