+ Cederic +

Cederic.

Luna spun around, her heart racing so fiercely it felt as though it would burst from her chest. Cederic looked as magnificent as ever. But before she could fully register his presence, Catriona's paws slammed into her back, propelling her forward.

Regaining her footing, Luna caught a movement from the corner of her eye. Determined, she told herself she would never make the mistake of turning her back on Catriona again. She shot a steely glance at her opponent. "You would have been better suited as a snake than a leopard."

Catriona reverted to her human form, standing proudly and unabashedly in her nakedness. A smug grin played on her lips. Luna silently celebrated the evidence of her resistance: Catriona's bruised face and bloodied mouth. However, she wasn't sure how her own injuries matched up. With the immediate danger gone, Luna's knuckles pulsed with pain, and her face throbbed.

A bald man with a head as shiny as polished mahogany stepped forward. "What the hell is going on here?"

Not wanting to be caught off guard again, Luna moved closer to Catriona, staying out of immediate reach. "This isn't over," she spat.

Cederic's gaze shifted between the two women, and Luna found herself wondering what emotion she stirred within him.

The bald man, donning the distinctive attire of the eunuchs, albeit more elaborate, shouted, "Out!" Despite their initial hesitation, the command was obeyed on his second, more forceful repetition. The room emptied rapidly.

Once silence reigned, the man, likely a senior eunuch, asserted himself. "There will be no more fighting between the two of you. Understood?"

Catriona was quick to play the injured party. "I was merely defending myself. She initiated the attack."

Luna's blood boiled. "She got what she deserved for slandering the Consorts. Next time, I won't hold back until she learns that respect is earned. Her bullying cannot continue."

Catriona feigned shock, playing the victim to perfection. The eunuch looked at Luna, surprise evident in his eyes.

A familiar voice interrupted the tense standoff. "Hello, love. Good to see you again." Cederic leaned casually against the doorframe, exuding charisma. "I've heard you've been taking out your frustrations on the High Consorts. Were you a vampire in a past life?"

His playful gaze locked onto Luna. "You're making me envious."

Luna was taken aback. Was he actually flirting? Their last encounter had been anything but friendly.

Clearing his throat, the eunuch interjected, "I need to speak with the women privately."

Cederic chuckled, "Well, I need a moment with Luna. You can have your way with Catriona, Vali." At the mention of the name, Luna realized the eunuch was indeed Vali. The two men shared a tense exchange, punctuated by Cederic's amusement.

Vali's face tightened, but he held his tongue.

Cederic smirked, "I'll be taking Luna to my chambers to discuss her recent... indiscretions."

"But the banquet tonight—"

"I'll ensure she's ready," Cederic assured.

"But her gown—"

"Vali," Cederic began with patience, his smile unfaltering, "I have an array of garments for my Escorts. It won't be difficult for her to find one that fits perfectly. In fact, I rather relish the idea of choosing the dress that enhances her beauty the most."

"Remember, they remain the King's charges," Vali warned, his brow furrowing. "Ensure your actions are appropriate."

Cederic chuckled, "When am I ever inappropriate?" Not waiting for an answer, he turned to Luna, "Come, let's make our way to my chambers. We need to get you ready for this evening. While the idea of inciting jealousy among my Escorts does hold a certain appeal, I'd prefer to avoid any repeat of earlier events."

His gaze traveled over her, the intensity of his grey eyes palpable. Gently, he placed her hand on his arm, holding her close. "I've seen your skin marred with blood more than once, Luna. There's no need to draw any more attention from me. You already have it."