Eva leaves her tower at 00:00. She slowly climbs down the steps. A hooded figure waits for her.

“Are you ready, My Lady?” they say.

Eva extends her hand.

“Let’s go,” she says. “We have a lot to discuss.”

The hooded figure nods, taking her hand. Together, they walk toward the palace gate. The guard lets them pass. Eva passes him 20 notes.

“That’s not necessary, My Lady,” he says.

“Keep it,” she says. “I appreciate your discretion.”

They get into a black runner and drive away from the palace.

“Where would you like to go?” the figure asks.

“We can talk as we drive if you like,” Eva says. “It’s up to you.”

The figure nods.

“How is she?” they ask.

“She’s well,” Eva says. “I believe my grandson’s plan has grabbed her attention. She vaguely asked for my help. She has taken a position as my lady-in-waiting.”

“And you believe you can keep her safe?”

“I do. She seems to have her own plan, but she didn’t specify. She told me she needs to make arrangements for her safety.”

The figure nods.

“My Lady,” they say, “she must marry the king. It’s her only chance to remain safe. It will also be the easiest way for her to claim her rightful place as the duchess of Libsia.”

“I understand,” Eva says. “She will marry my grandson. I assure you of that. She has her own plan, but I do as well. I’ll make sure she’s safe.”

“I can only do something from out here, but it’s limited.”

“What do you have for me?”

“I still have not been able to locate Leila and Laila. They’ve left no trace, but they haven’t left the kingdom.”

“That’s at least good. They might be closer than we think. What about Miley?”

The hooded figure sighs.

“She’s very adamant about taking over Libsia,” they say. “I believe she’s working on another appeal.”

“Of course she is,” Eva says. “Do you have any suggestions?”

“I believe she should be eliminated, but we may be able to gather information from her.”

Eva considers.

“Perhaps,” she says. “Eliminating her would remove an obstacle. We could not do anything for Rita, Angela, or Oliver, but we can do something for their girls.”

“Should I ask my source?” they ask.

“It would be too suspicious if we eliminate her now. Let’s wait. I’ll keep you updated.”

The figure nods.

“You know where to find me,” they say. They pause. “I think it’s time to ask my source if they can locate Leila and Laila.”

Eva nods.

“Alright,” she says. “Keep me updated.”

The figure drives Eva back to the palace and waits until she’s inside the tower. They nod to the guard before leaving. They must find a way to guard their lady. She must continue to remain safe.

---

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I’m currently posting a first draft of a story. However, if you’re interested in seeing what my final products look like, check out my debut, Daughter of Death. It’s available in many retailers, including Apple, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo in eBook and audiobook formats. It’s also available in my shop.

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