For some reason, magic seemed to be much easier around Sebastian, now that I knew how to use it. I showed him how I could manipulate the flames of the candles, summon winds with just a thought, and I even managed much more than just a breeze. I almost panicked, thinking I'd lost control, but I managed to dissipate the gusts, and the room stilled again.

When my gaze met Sebastian's, he was smiling. "That was very impressive. You're clearly making wonderful progress. I only wish I'd been able to help you more."

I shook my head. "Sebastian, believe me. You are helping. You and the others are taking care of things around here until I feel prepared to do them myself, and I really appreciate it."

He chuckled at my gratitude. "You'll never have to do everything on your own, you know. I'll always be by your side, helping in any way I can."

I smiled back at him. "I know."

We stood there in silence, staring at each other with smiles on our faces, until a knock on the door interrupted our moment. Sebastian opened it, and Lisa entered, closing the door behind her.

"We've taken care of the intruders. The castle has been searched thoroughly, so it is safe to return to your room if you'd like, Chrystal."

My gaze dropped to my feet.

"What's the matter, dear?"

I hesitated, knowing how it was going to sound and not sure how she would take it. "I feel horrible for asking, since you have all done so much to keep me safe, but is there any chance I could have a different room? The person after me knows where mine is, and after the vision I had just a bit ago..."

I could sense Lisa relax. "Don't feel bad for asking for something to help you feel safe, Chrystal. That old room was never to be your permanent chambers."

I looked back up at her. "Really? But so much magic went into making sure I was safe there."

"Well, we don't want anything happening to our queen. Besides, do you really think that little bedroom is fit for a queen of prophecy?"

I stared at her, even more confused.

She sighed, smiling. "There's a royal suite, dear. The only reason we haven't put you there yet is because you kept saying you weren't ready. I know you haven't told anyone you are, but we can move you in there if you'd like."

I was taken aback for a moment. A royal suite. As in a large and lavish bedroom. It sounded like something out of a fairytale. Although, my life feels like one story after another these days.

"Do you not believe that would be a bit too obvious?" Sebastian asked from beside me. "If she's been moved from her room, then-"

"And how would he know we moved her?" Lisa asked. "We'll leave the barriers and the lock, leave copies of her photos, some replica swords. We'll also have to fix the window, and perhaps strengthen the barriers again so he's forced to believe she's still in there..."

"And how safe is this suite?" he asked.

Lisa stood a little taller, clearly getting both defensive and matter-of-fact. "I'll have you know, only royals and those trusted by them can even touch the door. Ancient magic protects that wing."

"Wing?!" I jumped in, shocked.

Lisa smiled, clearly amused. "Yes. We call it a suite, but it really is almost an entire wing of the castle. I doubt you've even seen the entrance."

Was there really an entire section of the castle I'd yet to explore?

The demoness turned back to Sebastian. "We can also use the same barriers we've been using around it. A new lock, too, perhaps." Her expression turned serious suddenly. "I swear to you, Sebastian. I will not let anyone or anything hurt her. To the best of my ability, I will keep her safe."

Before Sebastian could answer her, I did. "I know you will, Lisa. You have no idea how much this means to me."

She smiled again, and I returned it. I'd already known how devoted she was to my safety, but hearing the conviction in her voice as she said it once again gave it a whole new meaning.

"Before I say yes or no to moving there, though, is there any chance I could see it?" If it stirred up emotions like the throne room did...

Sebastian placed his hand on my shoulder. When I looked up at him, I knew he could tell what I was thinking. I wanted to be ready, but...

Lisa answered a moment later. "Of course, dear. The door should open to you, regardless of when you accept the role."

"What about you two? It'll let you in with me, right?"

"Well, Sebastian is bound to you by your contract, meaning he is no threat to your safety. The magic should at least be able to recognize that. Me, on the other hand... I may be your advisor, but that won't be enough." Her eyes lit up with an idea after a moment. "I know! Just hold my hand as we approach. That should be enough."

I blinked at her. "Really? That's it?"

"As long as you lead me and I have no ill will toward you in my heart, yes. Simple, yet effective."

I looked at Sebastian, and he seemed almost as skeptical as I felt.

Lisa sighed. "Listen, I'll explain it to you. When someone approaches the room with malicious intent toward the crown, it won't allow them access. Holding hands is a sign of love and trust. And if you lead me in, the magic will believe it was your idea to show me somewhere sacred, which again is a sign of trust. If it makes you feel better, you can hold Sebastian's hand, too."

"What about in the future? Am I going to have to lead you in every time?"

She shook her head. "The magic will remember our energies, meaning we'll be able to come and go so long as our intentions are pure and good. The same will go for your friends, and Evan, if you decide to allow him access to the wing."

I nodded my understanding. "Okay. Well, I guess let's go see this royal suite, then."

Lisa clapped her hands together in excitement. "Oooo! I've never been allowed in before. This is so exciting!" She quickly left the room before us, and I laughed as Sebastian sighed as we followed after her.