Ashlyn turned her gaze to Ryanna as well. “Thank you, Princess Ryanna.”

Yet Ashlyn harbored no illusions that Ryanna and Katelyn shared allegiances. The crown incident remained etched vividly in her memory. Nevertheless, propriety demanded a certain performance, since Ryanna was a princess.

Katelyn noted the advancing hour and addressed Ashlyn, “I shall take my leave now. Should you require anything, don’t hesitate to contact me. With Princess Ryanna present, you might also seek her assistance.” Katelyn rose to her feet and then regarded Ryanna with a practiced smile, saying, “Princess Ryanna, perhaps we might continue our conversation another day? Farewell for now.”

Ashlyn stood up and offered, “Allow me to accompany you out.” Ryanna also stood, preparing to see Katelyn off.

Katelyn raised her hand dismissively with an amiable expression. “No need for that. I can navigate my way out unaccompanied.” The palace corridors were not unfamiliar territory to her.

Ryanna didn’t insist. She merely acknowledged with a poised nod, observing Katelyn’s departure.

As Katelyn withdrew, her gaze lingered momentarily on the forest where that individual was detained, her smile gradually dissolving into solemnity. This visit had afforded her valuable intelligence regarding the layout and guard rotations.

Katelyn then averted her eyes and proceeded out of the palace grounds.

Upon arriving home, she encountered Khalid descending the staircase. He regarded her with gentle eyes. “I must reside in the city temporarily. A conference demands my attendance.”

Katelyn responded with an affirmative nod. “I understand. When do you intend to depart?”

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Khalid consulted his phone briefly before replying, “I have to leave in a bit.”

Katelyn comprehended the situation. Just as she pivoted to procure some water, Khalid’s voice halted her.

“Katelyn.”

She lifted her glass, took a measured sip, and turned to Khalid with questioning eyes. “What concerns you?”

“Be careful of Sophia,” Khalid cast a significant glance at Katelyn, offering this terse warning before ascending the stairs, leaving Katelyn transfixed in bewilderment.

Did Khalid know Sophia? This question immediately seized her thoughts. She raised her glass once more, took another contemplative sip, then followed Khalid’s path upstairs.

Katelyn leaned against the doorframe of Khalid’s room, observing him methodically arranging garments in his luggage. “Did you share a history with Sophia?” she inquired, curiosity evident in her tone.

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