Meanwhile at the south wing of the palace, about three minutes drive from the main wing where the king resided, things were not the same as in the main wing as servants went about their duties in hushed whispers.
It was the Queen's private residence. Her room itself was a sanctuary of silk drapes, perfumed oils, and mirrors polished so finely they nearly shimmered like pools of water.
Queen Aurelia sat before one now, her slender fingers adorned with rings, absently brushing a silver comb through her thick raven hair when a knock disrupted the silence.
She didn't turn. "Enter."
The door creaked open and a young lady-in-waiting stepped in, head bowed low. "Your Majesty…"
"Yes?"
"Forgive the intrusion, Your Majesty. I… thought you should hear it from me."
Queen Aurelia's brow arched, still not facing her. "Speak clearly."
"There are… whispers in the halls. About the prince."
That got her attention. The comb froze mid-stroke.
