When the queen's lady-in-waiting entered her chamber to inform her that the Minister of Foreign Affairs sought a private audience with her, Queen Niobe wasn't surprised. He must have heard of the news regarding the prolonged stay of the King of Megaris and had come to ask for her next orders.
Lord Darus bowed to the Queen, who was sitting regally in her chair.
"Your Majesty, according to our sources, the Third Princess's servant, Martha, has left the palace," the minister informed in a humble tone.
His words brightened up the Queen's eyes, and this piece of news improved her already good mood.
"You mean, that witch is alone now?" the Queen asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"Why, suddenly, good things are coming. It seems like that witch's fate is against her this time." The Queen smiled in schadenfreude.
