Chapter 56. She Is My Mate

Anastasia's POV

"You deceived the young woman, besides the other participants and us. Why did you do that, Majesty? Was it caprice? Fear or just fun?" Chloe asks seriously, her firm voice echoing in the grand decorated hall. "There are lives in games, Majesty. The life of the young Anastasia who is being accused of crimes committed in another kingdom, this can cause divergence with our allies."

Ethan turns his head to look at Raven, my sister. The movement is deliberate, almost theatrical, as the silence in the hall becomes oppressive.

"Miss Raven, whatever stolen item you claim Miss Anastasia has stolen, I will pay triple the value," Ethan announces seriously, his voice echoing through the walls of cold stone, steeped with the weight of centuries of history.

"I didn't steal anything from anyone!" I defend myself, my voice trembling with indignation and fear. "There's no reason to pay for something t