FAMILY TENSION

Queen Isolde sat in her chambers, her expression troubled as she read the council's report on Elara's recent accomplishments. Thaddeus stormed into the room, his frustration palpable.

"Mother, have you seen this?" Thaddeus thrust the parchment towards her, his voice tinged with agitation.

Queen Isolde glanced at the document, her lips pursed in displeasure. "Yes, I have. It seems Elara continues to defy expectations."

Thaddeus scoffed, pacing back and forth. "She's becoming a spectacle, Mother. Training with swords, neglecting her royal duties. It's disgraceful."

Queen Isolde sighed, her tone tinged with disappointment. "Elara's pursuits are unorthodox, to say the least. But she is still the princess of this kingdom, Thaddeus. We must tread carefully."

Thaddeus stopped abruptly, his frustration boiling over. "Carefully? How can you defend her actions? She undermines our traditions and dishonors our lineage. She's not fit to represent Astoria."

Queen Isolde fixed him with a stern gaze. "Elara's ambitions must not disrupt our kingdom's stability. Her behavior risks tarnishing your reputation."

Thaddeus clenched his fists, his voice edged with defiance. "I won't stand idly, Mother. I'll prove my worth and restore honor to my legacy." After saying that, Thaddeus walked out of the room. Queen Isolde wanted to tell him not to act recklessly, but she knew he was not in a good condition.

***

As the moon cast a pale glow over the castle grounds, Thaddeus stood in the shadows of the corridor, his brow furrowed in deep contemplation. Beside him, a few trusted allies huddled close, their voices low and urgent.

"We must tread carefully," Thaddeus murmured, his eyes flickering with a cold determination. "The time is not yet ripe for our plan."

One of his allies, a burly man with a scar across his cheek, shifted uneasily. "And what of her lady in waiting? Are we to include her in our plans?"

Thaddeus's gaze darkened, a shadow of malice crossing his features. "If necessary," he replied coolly. "But first, we must sow doubt and discord. Spread rumors that will undermine her credibility and tarnish her reputation."

His cohorts nodded solemnly, their expressions reflecting both determination and apprehension. They knew the risks but were equally resolved to see Elara's downfall.

"We will gather our resources," Thaddeus said with a steely resolve. "When the moment is right, we will strike."

With silent nods of agreement, Thaddeus watched as his allies dispersed into the darkness, their footsteps echoing softly on the stone floor. He knew the stakes were high, but he was willing to risk everything to achieve his goal.

As he turned to leave, a sinister smile played at the corners of his lips. The game had begun, and Thaddeus was determined to emerge victorious. He will make Elara fall and take the throne.

***

As the sun rose over Astoria, casting its golden light upon the castle, Elara stood by her window, a sense of euphoria washing over her. The recent victory against the saboteurs who had damaged the kingdom's crops and food stores had brought her immense pride. For the first time, she felt truly recognized for her capabilities, not just as a princess but as a leader.

In the grand hall, Elara was greeted with nods of approval and words of praise from various courtiers and advisors. The air was filled with an energy of celebration, and Elara couldn't help but smile. She had proven herself, and the satisfaction was evident in her stride.

As she made her way to the council chamber, Sir Tristan approached her with a respectful bow. "Princess Elara, your swift action and decisive leadership have saved our kingdom from a potential crisis. Your father is very proud."

Elara beamed at the compliment, feeling the warmth of his words. "Thank you, Sir Tristan. It was a team effort, and I couldn't have done it without everyone's support."

As they entered the council chamber, the room fell silent. All eyes turned to Elara, who stood tall and confident. King Alden was already seated, a rare smile gracing his stern features. "Elara," he began, "your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Your dedication and commitment to Astoria are commendable."

The council members murmured in agreement, and Elara's heart swelled with pride. She had worked tirelessly to balance her royal duties and her passion for training, and now, it was all paying off.

Queen Isolde and Thaddeus glanced at each other when they saw the situation in the courtroom. They understand each other. If this continues, their ambition will not be accomplished. Thaddeus knows he must act quickly with his plan.

With that situation, the council meeting began, and they started to discuss daily issues, including how they were going to implement Elara's suggestion to review the tax.

After the meeting, Elara found herself in the gardens, taking a moment to breathe and reflect. The scent of blooming flowers and the chirping of birds created a serene atmosphere. She closed her eyes, relishing the sense of accomplishment that coursed through her veins.

Her lady-in-waiting, Lydia, approached her with a joyful expression. "Princess, everyone is talking about your success! You were incredible!" Elara smiled, her cheeks flushing with happiness. "Thank you, Lydia. It feels surreal, but I'm glad that I could help."

Lydia nodded enthusiastically. "And you've shown everyone what you're capable of. They see you as more than just a princess now; they see you as a true leader."

As they strolled through the gardens, Elara felt her insecurities lift, replaced by newfound confidence. She wondered how Theron would react to her recent accomplishments. Would he be proud of her? Would he see her as an equal now, someone capable of leading and protecting her kingdom? The thought of his approval warmed her heart and brought a faint smile to her lips. Theron had always believed in her, even when others doubted her capabilities. His encouragement had been a beacon of hope, guiding her through the darkest moments of self-doubt.

Elara fondly remembered the times they had spent training together in the early mornings and the quiet camaraderie that had blossomed between them. Theron's guidance had not only honed her skills but had also strengthened her resolve. She admired his wisdom and strength, qualities that made him a remarkable leader. In his absence, she had strived to embody those same qualities, to prove to herself and to him that she was worthy of his belief in her. She also blushed at the recollection of the memory of the farewell kiss she gave him before his assignment to the border.

"Princess, are you feeling unwell? Your face looks a little red," asked Lydia.

"No, I'm okay Lydia," Elara cursed herself, realizing she must maintain her composure next time. "It's just a little hot in here."

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps. She looked up to see Sir Tristan, her father's advisor, walking towards her. His presence always reminded her of the responsibilities she bore as a princess.

"Princess Elara," Sir Tristan greeted, his tone respectful yet formal. "I came to inform you that your father, King Alden, wishes to discuss the progress of our recent initiatives in his study room," Sir Tristan said. "He is very pleased with how you handled the situation with the saboteurs."

Elara felt a surge of pride in her heart. Her father rarely expressed his approval, so she treasured these rare moments. "Thank you, Sir Tristan. I will join him shortly," she said.

Sir Tristan nodded and smiled, aware that Elara had been eagerly anticipating her father's recognition. He turned and headed back inside the castle.

After Sir Tristan left, Elara took a deep breath, preparing herself for the meeting. She hoped that her father's praise would extend beyond mere words, perhaps even allowing her more freedom to pursue her passion for swordsmanship. Perhaps she could enlist Sir Cedric as her mentor once more.

Before heading inside, she glanced once more at the horizon, imagining Theron at the border, standing tall and resolute. She wondered if he ever thought of her if he missed their morning training sessions as much as she did. The thought brought a soft blush to her cheeks.

"Let's go in, Lydia," Elara said as she led the way. Determined to make the most of her day, Elara made her way to the king's study room where her father awaited. She knew that the path ahead would be filled with challenges, but with each step she took, she felt more confident in her abilities. She was not just a princess; she was a warrior, a leader, and, perhaps one day, a queen who would be remembered for her strength and wisdom.

In the back of her mind, she held onto the hope that when Theron returned, he would see how much she had grown, and how she had taken his teachings to heart. And perhaps, in the quiet moments they would share again, they could speak of the future they both envisioned—a future where they stood side by side, leading their kingdoms with grace and courage.