The morning sun cast a golden glow over the palace as Lady Evelina made her way to Queen Isolde's private chambers. The corridors were bustling with the usual activity of courtiers and servants, but Evelina's mind was focused on the task ahead. She clutched the note she had written the night before, now bearing the queen's seal of approval for a private audience.
A pair of guards stood at attention outside the queen's chambers. At Evelina's approach, they nodded and opened the doors, allowing her to step inside. The room was richly decorated, with tapestries depicting scenes of Astoria's glorious past and plush furnishings that spoke of the queen's impeccable taste.
Queen Isolde sat by the window, bathed in the soft morning light. She looked up from the book she was reading and smiled as Evelina entered.
"Lady Evelina," the queen greeted, her tone warm yet commanding. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this early visit?"
Evelina curtsied deeply. "Your Majesty, thank you for seeing me on such short notice. I bring news that I believe you will find most intriguing."
Isolde's eyes sharpened with interest. She set her book aside and gestured for Evelina to sit. "Please, sit and tell me what you have discovered."
Evelina took a seat across from the queen, her heart beating with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. "Your Majesty, yesterday, while I was taking a walk in the forest, I stumbled upon something quite unexpected."
The queen leaned forward, her expression intent. "Go on."
"Princess Elara," Evelina said, watching the queen's reaction closely. "She was in the forest, engaged in what appeared to be an intense training session with Sir Cedric."
For a moment, the queen said nothing, her face a mask of calm. Then a small, knowing smile played on her lips. "Princess Elara, training in secret? How very interesting. And what was your impression of this... training?"
Evelina chose her words carefully. "She was quite skilled, Your Majesty. Determined. It was clear that she has been doing this for some time. The princess is not merely dabbling; she is serious about her training."
Isolde's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "And you say Sir Cedric was with her? He has always been loyal, but this is unexpected."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Evelina confirmed. "He was instructing her with great dedication."
The queen stood and began to pace the room, her mind clearly at work. "This presents us with an interesting opportunity, Evelina. You know as well as I do that Elara's ambitions and capabilities could pose a threat to my plans for Thaddeus."
Evelina nodded. "Indeed, Your Majesty. It occurred to me that if this information were presented correctly, it could serve to undermine Princess Elara's standing in the court."
Isolde stopped pacing and turned to face Evelina, a calculating glint in her eye. "And how do you propose we use this to our advantage?"
Evelina took a deep breath, ready to lay out her plan. "We could begin by subtly spreading rumors about Elara's secret activities. Questioning her priorities, suggesting that her actions are reckless and unbecoming of a princess. Meanwhile, we ensure that Thaddeus is seen as the dutiful and responsible heir, focused on the kingdom's well-being."
The queen's smile widened, her approval evident. "Yes, that could work quite well. If Elara is seen as impulsive and defiant, it would give us the leverage we need to discredit her. And if Thaddeus is positioned as a stabilizing force, the king and the court will naturally gravitate towards him."
Evelina felt a surge of satisfaction. "Precisely, Your Majesty. With careful orchestration, we can shift the balance of power in Thaddeus's favor."
Isolde walked over to Evelina and placed a hand on her shoulder. "You have done well, Evelina. Your loyalty and insight are invaluable. Together, we will ensure that Thaddeus ascends to the throne, as is his rightful place."
Evelina bowed her head, feeling the weight of the queen's words. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I am honored to serve you."
"Keep this matter between us," Isolde instructed. "We must move carefully and deliberately. Our plans must unfold gradually, so as not to arouse suspicion."
"Of course, Your Majesty," Evelina agreed.
As she left the queen's chambers, Evelina couldn't help but feel a sense of triumph. She had successfully navigated a delicate situation, securing her own position while advancing the queen's agenda. Now, it was only a matter of time before their plans came to fruition, and Thaddeus would be seen as the rightful heir to the throne, while Elara's reputation would be called into question.
The game was set, and the pieces were moving. Lady Evelina was ready for whatever came next.