The lock on the door to the Alphas’ joint suite clicks closed behind us, but I don’t feel one speck of doubt or fear.

I’m standing in a living room that is the size of my current bedroom in the palace. A sunken conversation area with comfortable-looking pale red sofas dominates the room. A dining table sits close by. A huge bookcase lines one wall. Exquisite crystal vases full of flowers fill the room, along with a dozen scented candles. A long wet bar occupies one side ...