The true ruler

(Lina)

I took a deep breath, pressing my hands down on my moments to keep them from shaking. Today was the day I would finally be rid of Elara.

She had brought nothing but pain and suffering into Isabella's life, always lurking in the shadows, twisting truths, poisoning minds. But now, her lies were about to be exposed.

The royal court was already filled, nobles and guards lining the walls, watching with curious eyes. Elara stood there, her arms crossed, a smug smile plastered on her face as if none of this mattered to her. But I knew better. I knew she was hiding fear under that mask.

The judge banged his gavel, and silence fell over the room. "The court is now in session. Lady Elara, you stand accused of treason and attempted murder. How do you plead?"

Elara gave a slight smirk. "Not guilty, of course. This is all a misunderstanding," she said, her tone filled with false innocence.