As night falls, Lexzandra lies in bed, her thoughts circling around the ledgers she handed over to the king. She wonders if the evidence she provided is sufficient.
The palace, with its complex web of politics and hidden agendas, is not an easy place, and Lady Irina is cunning enough to cover her tracks. Lexzandra's anxiety is evident as she fidgets, her mind refusing to rest.
Elara, ever observant, notices the worry etched on Lexzandra's face as she gently combs her hair. "Your Highness," she begins softly, "I can see that something is troubling you. Is there anything I can do to help?"
Lexzandra sighs, appreciating Elara's concern. "I'm not sure if the ledgers alone will be enough to expose Lady Irina. She's been here for years and knows how to hide her misdeeds. I need more evidence, something irrefutable."
Elara pauses, contemplating for a moment before speaking. "Your Highness, I have a friend who works with a guild. They specialize in gathering information and might be able to uncover what Lady Irina is hiding. His name is Ethan, and he's trustworthy."
Lexzandra's eyes light up with hope. "A guild, you say? That could be exactly what we need. Tell me more about this guild and your friend."
Elara hesitates for a moment before continuing, "Your Highness, I must warn you. Ethan is not someone who helps just anyone. He is very secretive, and the guild he works for is known for its discretion and strict code. They deal with sensitive information and often operate in the shadows. The guild members are highly skilled at gathering intelligence, but they only assist those they deem trustworthy or those with a compelling cause."
Lexzandra listens intently, understanding the seriousness of what Elara is saying. "I see. It sounds like we'll need to earn their trust and show them that our cause is just."
Elara nods. "The guild has helped many in dire situations, but they require assurance that their efforts won't be wasted or bring unnecessary danger to their members. Ethan has been with the guild for years and has a reputation for being meticulous and cautious. If he agrees to help, it means he believes in our cause."
Lexzandra nods, her resolve unwavering. "I understand, but we don't have much time. Lady Irina has likely covered her tracks well within the palace. We need external help, and if Ethan and his guild can provide the information we need, then we must take that chance."
Elara takes a deep breath and then nods. "Very well, Your Highness. I'll arrange a meeting with Ethan. But we must be cautious and discreet."
__
The next morning, Lexzandra prepares to leave the palace. Before they can slip out unnoticed, the head maid intercepts them, suspicion etched across her face.
"Where are you going, Your Highness?" the head maid inquires, her tone polite but firm. Her eyes narrow slightly, betraying her suspicion.
Lexzandra quickly composes herself, offering a serene smile. "Elara and I are going to the market to purchase some new dresses. It's been a while since I've had anything new."
The head maid's brows knit together in doubt. "New dresses, Your Highness? It's quite unusual for you to handle such matters personally. Wouldn't it be more appropriate to send a servant to do this for you?"
Lexzandra holds the head maid's gaze, refusing to waver. "While it is indeed unusual, I have a specific vision for my wardrobe and wish to personally select the fabrics and designs. Besides, a change of scenery would do me good."
The head maid hesitates, her eyes scanning Lexzandra's face for any hint of deception. Lexzandra can see the wheels turning in her mind, trying to discern if there's more to this sudden outing than meets the eye. Finally, she nods, though it's clear she is not entirely convinced. "Very well, Your Highness. Please be careful."
Elara steps forward, sensing the tension and adding her voice to the conversation. "I'll make sure the princess is well-protected, Madam. We won't be long."
The head maid's gaze shifts to Elara, her suspicion now directed at the maid. "See that you do. The market can be a bustling and unpredictable place. Ensure the princess does not come to any harm."
With a final nod, Lexzandra and Elara proceed, walking briskly through the palace halls.
Lexzandra wears a plain cloak to hide her royal identity, mainly her striking purple hair because she is the only one other than her mother who has the hair and it won't take a second for the people to recognise her.
The market is something unique that she has never seen before, a vibrant fusion of colors, sounds, and scents. Stalls brim with exotic spices, fresh produce, and hand-crafted goods, while street vendors call out to potential customers, and children weave through the crowds, laughter in the air.
Lexzandra is in awe. This world outside the palace walls is full of life and energy, so much different from the sterile, controlled environment she is accustomed to. Her senses are almost overwhelmed by the sheer variety and intensity of the market.
"Stay close, Your Highness," Elara whispers, guiding her through the throng. They eventually arrive at a nondescript building, a small jewelry shop tucked away in a quieter part of the market. From the outside, it appears to be an ordinary shop, its windows displaying an array of sparkling jewels and trinkets.
"This is the place?" Lexzandra asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, Your Highness. The guild operates from behind this façade," Elara explains.
Inside, the shop is a quaint space filled with glass cases showcasing an assortment of fine jewelry.
From the outside, it appears to be a typical establishment, with its windows showcasing an array of sparkling jewels. Elara steps up to the shopkeeper and whispers something in a code language.
The shopkeeper nods in understanding and gestures for them to follow.
As they enter the back room, Lexzandra can't help but feel a surge of anticipation. The room is dimly lit, lined with shelves full of documents, ledgers, and mysterious artifacts. Several individuals work quietly, their focus unwavering.
Elara approaches one of the guild members and says, "We're here to see Ethan."
The guild member nods and disappears into the depths of the room. A few moments later, a tall man with sharp features and dreamy hazel eyes emerges.
"Ethan," Elara greets him with a respectful nod. "This is the person I told you about."
Ethan's eyes scan Lexzandra from head to toe, clearly skeptical. "And who might you be?" he asks, his tone neutral but edged with suspicion.
Lexzandra straightens, her royal bearing instinctively taking over. "I am from the royal family," she says, choosing her words carefully. "I require your services for a matter of great importance and urgency."
Ethan's expression remains impassive. "We don't take on clients lightly, and we certainly don't take on tasks without good reason. What makes you think I should help you?"
Lexzandra steps closer, meeting his gaze. "I understand your hesitations, but this is a matter of justice. There are corrupt individuals within the palace who are siphoning resources meant for the royal family. I need evidence to expose them."
Ethan remains silent for a moment, considering her words. Finally, he speaks. "We don't do this for free. What can you offer us in return?"
Lexzandra takes a deep breath, aware of the precariousness of her position. "Name your price. Whatever you want, I will ensure it is provided."
Ethan arches an eyebrow, intrigued but still cautious. "And why should I believe that you have the means to fulfill any promise you make? You haven't even told me your name."
Lexzandra pauses, then replies, "My identity must remain confidential for now, but know that I have the authority to deliver on my promises. You have my word as a member of the royal family."
Ethan studies her for a long moment, weighing her sincerity. Finally, he nods. "Very well. We will assist you, but know that failure to meet our terms will have consequences. What information do you require?"
Relief floods through Lexzandra, but she maintains her composure. "I need any information on Lady Irina and her dealings, especially anything related to the mismanagement and theft of resources meant for the princess's palace."
Ethan nods, signaling to a nearby guild member. "We will gather what you need. It will take some time, but you will have your answers. Be prepared to uphold your end of the bargain."
"Thank you," Lexzandra replies, her voice steady. "I will await your findings and ensure you are compensated fairly."
Ethan takes his leave and vanishes inside the room. Lexzandra wonders if Ethan can uncover the truth about Lady Irina's deceit, it will be a significant step toward her reputation.
The thought of finally having concrete evidence against Lady Irina gives her a sense of purpose. "This could be the turning point," she thinks, determined to see it through.