Troubled

She had anticipated this meeting for days, ever since she returned from the mage tower with Rylus, the only mage who had agreed to work with her. The rejection of the Royal Family's proposal had been a major blow, but Selena had no intention of letting this failure deter her.

Instead, she had spent every waking moment formulating a plan—one that would not only strengthen the Kingdom but also shift the tides in their favour when it came to dealing with mages.

As she approached the Queen's chambers, she was met by one of the attendants, who gave a respectful nod before announcing her presence.

"Lady Whitlock has arrived, Your Highness."

The doors were opened, and Selena stepped inside.

Queen Eleanor sat by the large window, elegantly poised as she reviewed documents laid before her. Dressed in a gown of deep royal blue, she looked calm and composed as if nothing could ever sway her.