Prince Rhett led me through a hidden passage behind the library walls. The narrow stone corridor smelled of dust and secrets. We moved quickly, our footsteps muffled by years of accumulated grime.

"Where are we going?" I whispered.

"My private study. Somewhere my mother's spies cannot reach." He pushed open a concealed door. "My brothers will meet us there."

The room beyond was small but warm. Books lined every wall from floor to ceiling. A fire crackled in the hearth, casting dancing shadows ...