Aurelia was in Queen Nirvana’s receiving room awaiting her arrival and while her demeanor was composed, her eyes betrayed her nervousness. The Queen finally arrived, exuding an air of regality, her gaze sharp as she regarded Aurelia with keen interest.
"Aurelia," Queen Nirvana called out, sounding surprised, even though Aurelia knew that her handmaiden who trailed behind her, must have informed her of her arrival. No one could get an inch close to the Queen’s chamber without permission unless asking for death. There were guards outside for protection.
"Your Highness," Aurelia dropped into a formal bow.
"Oh come on, Aurelia, you do know there’s no need for such formal pleasantries between us. You have earned your right to be casual with me." Queen Nirvana said, flashing a vulpine smile that revealed her sparkling teeth.
"You are too gracious, my queen," Aurelia said, still bowing her head formally. She was not a fool to get too chummy with the royals, especially Queen Nirvana. The spring Fae Queen delighted in being respected and having sovereign power. If it was possible, she would have the whole Fae realm worship at her feet. How do you become close with that kind of Fae? No, Aurelia would rather not close that line.
Queen Nirvana shook her head ruefully, "Fine, have it your way, then." The Queen said, heading over to the table where there were two teacups and a kettle of boiling tea. She served them tea while Aurelia watched.
"Come. Have a seat. " Queen Nirvana sat down, gesturing to the available seat.
Aurelia obeyed without hesitation and settled down.
"Drink." Queen Nirvana ordered.
Aurelia picked up the cup and lifted the tea to her lips, drinking without pausing to suspect foul play. The Queen would not poison her tea, not when she was still useful and hadn’t given her reason to question her loyalty. Aurelia was more concerned when she outlived her usefulness. She knew too much to be spared.
"Seeing that you consented me in broad daylight, I can only guess that something great happened." The queen started the conversation, lowering her tea.
Aurelia put down her tea too, her action less graceful than the Queen’s. She said, "You are right, my Queen. Something did happen last night. A whole lot of it."
Intrigue and fascination flashed in the Queen’s eyes, anticipation gnawing inside of her to get the latest news that would be no doubt useful to her cause.
Aurelia took a deep breath, steeling herself. "Your Majesty," Aurelia began, her voice measured, "Islinda, the human, has managed to escape Aldric’s clutches."
Queen Nirvana, was a bit stunned by the news, however, she was quick to compose herself. A faint smirk played at the corners of her lips, betraying a hint of amusement.
"Go on," the queen urged, her tone laced with intrigue with her keen eyes fixed on Aurelia.
Aurelia continued, her words steady despite the weight of the information she carried. "Islinda engaged in a fierce confrontation with Aldric, resulting in her escape from his stronghold. Currently, Aldric remains imprisoned within his own domain, unable to pursue her."
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