Alessa could feel it—an undercurrent in the air, a shift in the court's dynamics. Word of Seraphina's growing popularity had begun to spread, subtle whispers reaching even the fringes of noble society. Though Seraphina had yet to formally challenge her position, her influence was becoming apparent in small, insidious ways.
Alessa's memories of her past life gave her a grim roadmap of what was to come. In this timeline, Seraphina's rise wouldn't happen overnight. She would first establish herself as a paragon of virtue, winning over key figures in the court and slowly undermining Alessa's reputation.
If Alessa didn't act now, her enemy's roots would grow too deep to cut.
An Unlikely Lead
A week after Damian's reluctant agreement to gather information, he approached Alessa in the garden, where she was practicing creating layered barriers—a skill essential for maintaining defense while conserving energy.
"You're not going to like this," he said, leaning casually against a pillar.
Alessa paused, wiping sweat from her brow. "What is it?"
"Seraphina has been holding private gatherings," he said. "Exclusive little soirées for select nobles. She's been framing them as 'discussions about faith and morality.'"
Alessa frowned. "She's securing allies."
Damian nodded. "Exactly. And from what I've heard, she's focusing on families with influence in the temple. She's clever—by aligning herself with the temple's elite, she's building a power base that's hard to challenge."
Alessa's hands clenched at her sides. This was the same tactic Seraphina had used in her past life, though much earlier than before. Clearly, her own presence in this timeline was accelerating Seraphina's plans.
"Who's been attending these gatherings?" she asked.
Damian smirked. "Oh, a fascinating mix. The LaCroix family, for one. They're known for their pious reputation and their deep pockets. And Lady Cassandra Revelle—the perfect choice for an ally if you want someone to spread rumors in your favor."
Alessa's lips tightened. She knew Lady Cassandra well—too well. The woman was a notorious gossip, and in her previous life, she had been one of Seraphina's most vocal supporters.
"Anything else?" Alessa asked, her tone clipped.
"Not yet," Damian said, watching her carefully. "But I'll let you know if I hear more."
As he turned to leave, Alessa's mind raced. Seraphina's strategy was clear: she was positioning herself as the moral authority of the court, using religion as a weapon to discredit Alessa.
If she wants to play that game, Alessa thought, I'll beat her at it.
A Plan Takes Shape
Later that evening, Alessa summoned her maid, Clara, to her chambers. Clara had proven herself invaluable in recent weeks, her loyalty unwavering.
"Clara," Alessa said as the maid entered, "I need you to gather some information for me."
"Of course, my lady," Clara said, bowing her head.
"There's a series of gatherings being hosted by Lady Seraphina," Alessa explained. "I need to know the exact nature of these meetings—who's attending, what's being discussed, and, most importantly, how they're being framed to the public."
Clara nodded. "I'll reach out to some of the other staff. The servants of the attending families are bound to talk."
"Good," Alessa said. "Be discreet. If anyone suspects we're prying, it could jeopardize everything."
As Clara left to begin her work, Alessa sat at her desk, staring down at the papers scattered before her. These documents detailed every noble family with ties to the temple, as well as those who might be swayed by faith-based appeals.
Her eyes lingered on the LaCroix family. Lord LaCroix was a staunch traditionalist, known for his unshakable belief in the temple's teachings. His wife, Lady Marianne, was less devout but fiercely loyal to her husband. Together, they wielded significant influence over religious affairs in the capital.
If Seraphina had already secured their favor, it would be a devastating blow to Alessa's plans. She needed to act fast.
A Show of Faith
Two days later, Alessa made a public appearance at the Temple of Lumina, the grand center of worship in the capital. The temple was a towering structure of marble and gold, its stained glass windows depicting the deeds of past saintesses.
The visit was both symbolic and strategic. Alessa needed to remind the court—and the common people—that she was the true saintess. Her connection to the divine had to be undeniable.
As she entered the temple, a hush fell over the crowd gathered within. Priests and priestesses paused their duties to bow, their expressions a mix of awe and reverence.
"Lady Alessa," said High Priest Theodor, stepping forward to greet her. "It is an honor to have you here."
"The honor is mine, High Priest," Alessa replied, her voice steady. "I've come to offer my prayers and to speak with the faithful."
Theodor's eyes widened slightly, but he nodded. "Of course. Please, this way."
Alessa followed him to the altar, where she knelt and closed her eyes. She allowed the faintest trace of her divine power to flow outward, creating a gentle glow around her. Gasps echoed through the chamber, and whispers filled the air.
"She truly is blessed by the heavens," someone murmured.
After offering her prayers, Alessa rose and turned to address the crowd.
"In these times of uncertainty," she said, her voice carrying through the hall, "it is more important than ever to remain steadfast in our faith. The heavens guide us, and through their light, we shall find the strength to face whatever trials come our way."
Her words were met with applause, and she could see the admiration in the eyes of those gathered. But she also noticed something else—a flicker of doubt in the gaze of a priest standing near the back.
She would need to uncover the source of that doubt.
The First Move
By the time Alessa returned to the Elorin estate, Clara was waiting for her with news.
"My lady," Clara said, bowing deeply, "I've learned more about Lady Seraphina's gatherings."
"Go on," Alessa said, gesturing for Clara to continue.
"It seems she's been portraying herself as a moral guide," Clara explained. "She's using subtle language to imply that the court has lost its way and that she's here to restore its faith and integrity."
"And what of her stance on the saintess?" Alessa asked.
"She hasn't mentioned you directly," Clara said. "But she's been emphasizing the importance of humility and selflessness—qualities she claims are lacking in certain individuals."
Alessa's jaw tightened. It was a clever move. By avoiding direct accusations, Seraphina could plant seeds of doubt without making herself an obvious antagonist.
"Thank you, Clara," Alessa said. "This is exactly the information I needed."
As Clara left, Alessa turned her attention back to the notes on her desk. Seraphina was positioning herself as the court's moral compass, but Alessa still had the advantage of being recognized as the saintess—at least.