Queen Valerie did not look the least bit surprised upon hearing what I just said. The placid expression she was wearing convinced me that she had expected such a result.
"I apologize, we've been trying our best," Erilyn added.
The queen raised a hand. "It's fine. I've predicted this more or less. That old hag is prickly, and very thorough. Though I had only talked to her for a brief time, I had an inkling that she would be precise in her plans. Many years of not showing herself and biding for the right moment had led her to that."
Erilyn dipped her chin, downing the rest of her tea in one last gulp. "What do you suggest I do, Your Majesty?"
Queen Valerie tapped her sharp-tipped nails on the tabletop, humming. "I would tell you that you can continue your efforts on finding the princess, but I feel as though there will not be a difference if we press on with the usual."
"We need new tactics," Erilyn replied, catching.
