My eyes darted to Elaine, who sat frozen in shock, a single tear dripping down her cheek. Lyonesse stared at me, murderous hatred naked in her expression.
In that instant, I could almost hear the response that was expected—nay, required—repeated in the thoughts of the hundreds of onlookers.
I scanned the room for Aggrivane, to plead with him to do something to make this madness stop, but he was already gone. All I could see were the expectant expressions of my father and Arthur. I was alone in this trap, and there was but one way out. My response was not a choice but rather the submission of one already condemned.
My lips said yes, and cheers erupted all around.
I beamed back at my betrothed, but inside my heart was screaming, I am so sorry, Aggrivane.
As the commotion continued,
