Elaena stood before her grandfather, Jullon, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. She cleared her throat, gathering her courage to speak the words she had rehearsed in her mind countless times.
"Grandfather," she began, her voice steady but tinged with nervousness, "I have been offered a position as a lady-in-waiting at the castle."
Jullon's weathered face softened with pride as he regarded his granddaughter. "Elaena, that is wonderful news! You will serve with grace and honor, just as your mother wishes she did."
Beside Elaena, Selena nodded in agreement. "I will take good care of her, Jullon. You have my word."
Jullon's eyes sparkled with emotion as he reached out to clasp Elaena's hands in his own. "Go with my blessings, my dear. Make me proud, as I know you will."
Elaena flashed a smile at her grandfather, but inside she was determined to make her father pay for leaving her and her mother. She hated deceiving the one person who had always been there for her when her mother died.
"Come, Elaena," Selena beckoned, leading her towards her chamber to gather her belongings. As they entered the room, Selena gently shut the door behind them. "I despise deceiving my grandfather," Elaena confessed, meeting Selena's gaze.
"Your grandfather likely guarded the secret of your true father's identity. Even those you trust may have hidden truths from you. I am here to assist you in uncovering them, as your aunt," Selena declared, causing Elaena to lower her gaze in realization.
"Now we must make haste if thou wish to arrive punctually for the choosing to become a lady in waiting at the castle," Selena proclaimed, to which Elaena nodded in agreement ere gathering her garments and belongings into her satchels.
Naela reclined on a plush velvet chaise, her fingers idly tracing the delicate embroidery of her gown. The late afternoon sun filtered through the leaded glass windows, casting warm hues across the chamber. Lost in thought, her reverie was abruptly interrupted by a soft rap on the door.
"Enter," she called, her voice carrying a note of curiosity.
The door creaked open, and in stepped her trusted servant, a small parchment in hand. With a respectful bow, she extended the letter to Naela.
"A letter for you, Your Highness, from Lady Alynla," the servant announced, her expression a mix of deference and anticipation.
Naela's heart fluttered with excitement as she eagerly accepted the missive, her eyes scanning the elegant script penned by her dear cousin. Breaking the seal, she unfolded the parchment and began to read.
"My dearest cousin Naela,
I hope this letter finds you well, though I must admit that my own heart is heavy with news that has reached me. It has come to my attention that my father, Lord Ovid, is to be wed to Ireyne Ryswell, daughter of King Gregor Ryswell of Husavik, the Viking village that lies beyond our lands.
The news of this union has taken me by surprise, for I had not anticipated such an alliance between our families. Nevertheless, I pray that it will bring prosperity and harmony to both our realms. However, amidst the joyous tidings, I find myself seized by a fervent desire to be by your side once more.
Naela, my dearest cousin, I long to serve as your lady-in-waiting, to stand beside you in court and offer you my unwavering support. I have yearned for this opportunity for so long, and now, with the prospect of my father's marriage, I feel that my presence at your side is more important than ever.
Please, dear cousin, consider my plea. I would be honored to stand by your side, to share in your joys and sorrows, and to offer you whatever assistance you may require. I understand if circumstances prevent you from granting my request, but know that my heart remains steadfast in its devotion to you.
Awaiting your response with bated breath,
Your devoted cousin,
Alynla"
As Naela finished reading the heartfelt words, a rush of emotions flooded her. She felt a pang of sympathy for Alynla, who seemed genuinely surprised and perhaps even unsettled by the news of her father's impending marriage. Yet, beneath the surface, she sensed a glimmer of excitement at the prospect of having her cousin by her side once more.
Without a doubt, Naela reached for her quill and parchment, her mind already formulating a response. She dipped the quill in ink and began to write, her words flowing effortlessly as she addressed her beloved cousin.
"My dearest Alynla,
Your letter has brought both joy and sorrow to my heart. While I share in your surprise at the news of your father's impending marriage, I cannot help but feel a sense of anticipation at the thought of having you by my side once more.
Your request to serve as my lady-in-waiting fills me with warmth, for there is no one I would rather have by my side than you. Your loyalty and devotion have always been a source of strength to me, and I would be honored to have you join me at court once more.
I shall speak to my mother at once and convey your desire to her. I have no doubt that she will welcome the idea with open arms, for she holds you in high regard as well. Together, we shall see if arrangements can be made for you to journey to the castle and take up your rightful place at my side.
Until we are reunited, know that you remain ever in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong, dear Alynla, for brighter days surely lie ahead.
With all my love and affection,
Your devoted cousin,
Naela"
Sealing the letter with wax, Naela called for her servant to deliver it to Alynla without delay. As the servant departed, Naela couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation at the thought of having her beloved cousin by her side once more.
She hoped her mother would answer her prayers.
Days later, as the castle loomed in the distance, Selena pulled Elaena aside, her expression grave.
With a sense of gravity in her tone, Selena whispered to Elaena, "There is a truth that you must guard with your life. You must never disclose that you are the king's firstborn child."
A wave of astonishment washed over Elaena as she absorbed Selena's revelation, her eyes widening in disbelief. "But why? What significance does it bear?"
Selena's gaze turned resolute as she clarified, "For there are people who would exploit your noble bloodline against you, my dear. It is of utmost importance that you conceal your true identity at any expense."
Understanding dawned on Elaena as she realized the gravity of the situation. She nodded solemnly, knowing that she must trust Selena's judgment.
"And what about my duties as a lady-in-waiting?" Elaena asked, her mind racing with questions.
Selena's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Your duties extend beyond mere service, Elaena. You must use your position to gather information, to uncover whatever plans the king and his family may have."
Elaena felt a surge of determination coursing through her veins. "I understand, Selena. I will do whatever it takes to protect your family and our kingdom."
With a nod of approval, Selena clasped Elaena's hand in hers. "You are stronger than you know, Elaena. But remember, you are not alone. I will be watching over you, every step of the way."
With a nod of agreement, Elaena witnessed Selena's departure. She then spun around, her eyes fixated on the majestic castle, and released a heavy sigh. The moment had arrived for her to face a family she had never imagined existed, or that they were still among the living...
Elaena stood at the grand entrance of the castle, her heart racing with anticipation as she waited alongside the other new servants, all hoping to secure a position serving the Royal Family. The air buzzed with nervous energy as they exchanged uncertain glances, each one eager to make a good impression.
Suddenly, the doors swung open, and Queen Alicent herself appeared before them, her regal presence commanding attention. Her gaze swept over the assembled group, a faint hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.
"Welcome to the castle," Queen Alicent began, her voice ringing out with authority. "You have been chosen to serve the Royal Family, and it is a privilege you should not take lightly."
Elaena listened intently as the queen outlined their duties and responsibilities, assigning each servant to their respective roles." When it was Elaena's turn, Queen Alicent fixed her with a scrutinizing gaze.
"And who might you be?" Alicent asked, her tone laced with curiosity.
Elaena hesitated for a moment, her mind racing as she concocted a plausible backstory. "I am Elaena, Your Majesty. I come from a small village in the countryside."
Queen Alicent studied her for a moment longer before nodding in approval. "Very well, Elaena. You are to serve my youngest daughter, Princess Naela, attending to her every need."
Elaena nodded respectfully, though inwardly she couldn't help but roll her eyes at the prospect of catering to the whims of a pampered princess. Nevertheless, she knew better than to disobey a direct order from the queen.
As the other servants dispersed to their assigned tasks, Elaena followed Princess Naela through the corridors of the castle, her mind buzzing with curiosity. Despite her initial reservations, she couldn't deny the spark of intrigue that flickered to life within her at the prospect of serving a member of the Royal Family.
Whilst she was indeed her sister by blood, and the royal family were her kin through her father's line...
As Elaena trailed behind Princess Naela, she couldn't help but steal glances at the young royal, trying to gauge her demeanor and personality. Naela, for her part, seemed to be lost in thought, her expression a mixture of boredom and restlessness.
"So, Elaena," Naela finally spoke, her voice tinged with curiosity, "tell me about yourself. Where do you come from?"
Elaena hesitated for a moment, her mind racing as she weighed her options. Should she continue to maintain the facade she had concocted for Queen Alicent, or should she risk revealing her true identity to the princess?
"I come from a small village, Your Highness," Elaena replied carefully, deciding to stick to her fabricated story for now. "My family has served the nobility for generations, and I am honored to now serve you."
Naela nodded thoughtfully, though there was a hint of skepticism in her eyes. "Interesting. Well, I suppose we shall see if you are as capable as you claim to be."
Elaena bristled slightly at the princess's tone but quickly composed herself, reminding herself of the importance of maintaining a professional demeanor. She may not have been thrilled about her assignment, but she was determined to prove herself worthy of the role.
As they continued on their journey through the castle, Elaena couldn't help but notice the way Naela's demeanor softened slightly, her guard seemingly dropping as they exchanged idle chatter. Perhaps, Elaena thought, there was more to the princess than met the eye.
As time flowed by, Elaena felt a growing sense of comfort in Naela's company, a bond of friendship forming between them. Despite their contrasting positions, she couldn't ignore the suspicion that Naela viewed her as more than a mere handmaiden. However, she understood the dangers of forming attachments within the castle walls. The court was a den of vipers, filled with treacherous souls willing to betray for power.
She had to tread carefully, avoiding any emotional entanglements.
Princess Naela made her way through the winding corridors of the castle, her footsteps echoing softly against the stone floors. Her heart was light with anticipation as she ascended the grand staircase, her thoughts consumed by the letter she had received from her cousin Alynla.
Reaching the door to her mother's chambers, Naela paused for a moment to gather her thoughts before knocking gently. Moments later, the door swung open to reveal Alicent, her regal presence filling the room with an aura of authority and grace.
"Naela, my dear," Alicent greeted with a warm smile, motioning for her daughter to enter. "What brings you to my chambers this afternoon?"
"Mother," Naela began, her voice tinged with excitement, "I have received a letter from Alynla, my cousin. She wishes to come to the castle and serve as my lady-in-waiting."
Alicent's brow furrowed slightly as she listened to Naela's words, her expression thoughtful. "But Naela, you already have a new lady-in-waiting, Elaena."
Naela nodded, acknowledging her mother's point. "Yes, Elaena has been wonderful, but having Alynla here would be different. She is family, Mother, and I miss her dearly. Besides, it would be nice to have someone I can trust completely by my side."
Alicent considered her daughter's words for a moment, her gaze softening as she recognized the longing in Naela's eyes. "I understand, my dear. Family is important, and I know how much Alynla means to you."
"Will you consider allowing her to come to the castle, Mother?" Naela asked, her voice hopeful.
Alicent sighed gently, her fingers absently tracing the intricate patterns of her gown. "I will give it some thought, Naela. I must consider the needs of the court as well. But rest assured, I will take your request into consideration."
Naela smiled gratefully, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Mother. That is all I ask."
With a nod of understanding, Alicent rose from her seat and crossed the room to embrace her daughter. "You are always welcome to share your thoughts and desires with me, Naela. Now, go and attend to your duties. I will let you know my decision in due time."
As Naela left her mother's chambers, a sense of hope filled her heart. Though the outcome was uncertain, she knew that her mother would consider her request with the utmost care and thoughtfulness. And in the meantime, she would eagerly await news of her cousin's possible arrival at the castle, hopeful for the chance to have Alynla by her side once more.