A rhythmic clanking of gears and the soft hiss of steam filled the air as Queen Eleanor stood hunched over a workbench in her private workshop. The formal attire from the luncheon had been replaced by sturdy work clothes, her hair tied back in a practical bun.
As she tinkered with a complex mechanism, the door creaked open behind her.
"I thought I'd find you here," came a familiar voice.
Eleanor looked up, a small smile breaking through her concentrated frown. "Shane," she greeted warmly. "Come in. I could use a fresh pair of eyes on this contraption."
Shane entered. His unruly dark hair and intelligent eyes looked refreshing after the formal appearance of her dinner guests earlier that day. He strode into the workshop with a broad smile on his face. His clothes were similarly practical, while he carried a briefcase in his hand. He was always ready for an opportunity to test any kind machine. So, he might be carrying tools or electronics in the briefcase.