Behind the Palace Walls

Chapter 1

"Queen Mother Isabella, your wisdom is unparalleled. I’m not one to meddle in matters beyond my ken. However, His Majesty has tasked me with overseeing the marriages of the three princes and the grand princess. The roles of Lady Victoria and Lady Catherine couldn't be more different. Since His Majesty has entrusted this duty to me, I must act on it. How could I close my eyes to it simply because I have reservations?" Lady Gwendolyn stated bluntly.
"You certainly have a gift for words," scoffed Queen Mother Isabella. "Even if the Emperor has asked you to handle these matters, how dare you dismiss the voices of the birth mothers of the princes? Do you think threatening me will elevate your standing?"
Lady Gwendolyn narrowed her striking gaze, turning it toward Countess Beatrice.
"Countess Beatrice, it seems you're too proud to accept assistance when it's offered. I assume you still dare to seek an audience with the Queen Mother, banking on her ignorance of your past misdeeds."
"Lady Gwendolyn, you’re mistaken. As a birth mother of the princes, I simply want to ensure that the marriage arrangements are managed with the utmost care," Countess Beatrice objected.
"Enough!" Lady Gwendolyn's voice sliced through the room like a blade.
“Are you raising your voice at me in my own presence? Do you not respect my position?” Queen Mother Isabella slammed her hand on the table.
"Queen Mother, have you heard about the sorcery issues within the palace? His Majesty is mindful of your age and does not wish for matters to escalate. This significant situation has been kept under wraps with His Majesty so agitated. Do you truly know who or how many are involved in this?" Lady Gwendolyn countered sharply.
“The curse you speak of is your burden! It's clear your heart is filled with grievances,” retorted Queen Mother Isabella.
“Yes, the weight of the curse falls upon me today. But think of the future. As the princes mature, which one will grow restless? Queen Mother, are you not worried for His Majesty’s well-being? Or do you not care for your grandchildren? We concubines are simply outsiders; if you choose not to dote on us, that is understandable. But the princes and princesses share the surname of Sir Cedric—do you truly not care?” Lady Gwendolyn’s discontent was palpable.
"I admit I spoke those words, but must His Majesty be called upon to address such matters? If I were to say I’m being unreasonable, who outside would simply deem it as infighting among concubines? If His Majesty must intervene, it transforms into an imperial edict," Lady Arabella sighed.
“Indeed, this has cast a shadow on your reputation, dear sister. You carry an ill name, yet all actions aim for the benefit of the royal family,” Lady Arabella sighed.
“Certainly, His Majesty excels in decision-making; Queen Mother, your intentions are commendable, yet you would do best to refrain from being too involved at this time,” Duchess Elena added softly.
“Duchess Elena, you’ve crossed the line,” Queen Mother Isabella exclaimed, her temper flaring.
"Queen Mother, please calm your anger. Given your stature, His Majesty desires to spare you distress. Focus on enjoying your later years while we handle these trivial matters," Lady Gwendolyn proclaimed, her tone authoritative.
"With your lot around, do you think you are the new queen? Or that you could achieve more than the queen herself?" Queen Mother Isabella shot back in anger.
"I am merely Countess Beatrice, not a queen, and I am not confused. Whether my talents exceed those of the queen, that judgment is for others to deliver. Regardless, we have duties to fulfill," Lady Gwendolyn replied with a slight smile. "As for Countess Beatrice’s situation, I cannot reveal much and hope the Queen Mother understands. If not, you may choose to discuss this with His Majesty."
"Countess Beatrice, heed this carefully. If you persist in causing a ruckus today, I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest to His Majesty that your rank be elevated. After all, from a first-grade consort, there exists a rank of esteemed consort available," Lady Gwendolyn said with a chilling laugh.
The chilling implications felt like ice to Countess Beatrice.
What does this mean? To be given a promotion at this juncture.
And what follows after the elevate?
After stating her piece, Lady Gwendolyn took advantage of Queen Mother Isabella's contemplative silence to bow gracefully. "His Majesty remains at Chateau de Lumiere; I shall return to him."
With that, she left without lingering.
"This is insurrection! This woman is truly audacious!" Queen Mother Isabella fumed.
"Queen Mother, you must hold your temper; we cannot leave His Majesty unattended," Lady Rosalind interjected.
"Yes, Your Grace, do keep your temper in check. As for this matter, even I am unsure; His Majesty has been around all day. I suspect Countess Beatrice's words align with His Majesty’s thoughts," Dame Anneliese added.
Queen Mother Isabella took a deep breath. "Very well, it is my fault for overstepping. You may leave now, but Duchess Elena, please remain."

Chapter 2

The assembly of courtiers dispersed, each taking their leave.
Dame Anneliese spoke with a frosty tone, "She is Lady Gwendolyn, the one who holds sway in this court."
"Your Grace... you mean..." Mistress Lavender stuttered, but before she could finish, Dame Anneliese interrupted.
Mistress Lavender fell silent, uncertain of her place.
Duchess Elena remained seated, her gaze fixed on Regent Matilda, who chose to remain silent.
After what felt like an eternity, Regent Matilda finally chimed in, "So, you blame me?"
"Queen Mother Isabella, I do not understand why you say such things," Duchess Elena countered with a brittle smile that lacked warmth.
"In these past years, your demeanor has grown more rebellious. I offer you kind words, yet you respond with pretenses," Queen Mother Isabella said, furrowing her brow.
"Your words of kindness feel insincere to me, Your Grace. I return your sentiments honestly. How can they be anything but sincere?" Duchess Elena challenged.
"You are truly... obstinate. You are far removed from the genuine nature of Lady Seraphina," Queen Mother Isabella shot back, her voice rising with irritation.
"When you summoned me to the palace years ago, I suspect you echoed the same sentiments, claiming that Lady Seraphina could never measure up to me," Duchess Elena replied with a dispassionate smile. "I entered this court seeking wealth and the chance to bear a royal heir. I had lofty dreams, and thus I find myself here, unable to bear any children. It is my own fault, but I have grown wiser. Compared to the late Lady Tranquil, I suppose I am indeed fortunate, wouldn’t you agree?"
"And what of you, Queen Mother Isabella? You are unyielding in your desires. You are the mother of His Majesty King Henry, a woman of distinction. What more do you seek? The bloodline of Lady Yew to continue the throne? You long for Lady Yew's daughter as the Prince's Consort, thinking of too many things and lost in this quest, to the point of madness. And me? I was already ruined by you, wasn't I? Do you care to reflect on the years I spent as a mere lady-in-waiting?"
"I suffered from relentless pains each month, barely surviving through the support of my family, while you turned a blind eye. I could rise to where I am only because Lady Tranquil passed on. It’s the blood of Lady Yew that supports me now."
"Yet you question why Lady Tranquil perished. Surely, you understand, Queen Mother Isabella. She was foolish, but she never maligned a soul. Except at the hands of her own aunt, who led her to an early grave. In her final moments, she awakened to the truth, knowing you were unreliable. She would rather place her child in my care than trust you, understanding that Prince Edmund is disfigured and cannot ascend to the throne, and that you wouldn’t care for Princess Margaret simply because she’s a girl."
"Now, I am left unable to give life again. I merely tend to the two eldest children. I care not who the next emperor is; my only wish is to remain close to Lady Victoria. At least during these years, those around her have fared well. What of those around you?"
"You... you truly are foolish, thinking she has any favor," Queen Mother Isabella snapped, at a loss for words.
"Ha! And what of your own? Dame Catherine holds any standing?" Duchess Elena smiled faintly, "You and I are both in Lady Yew's service; that is all I can acknowledge. Beyond that, I am powerless."
Returning thoughts: Queen Mother Isabella is growing old, perhaps it’s time for her to bask in her twilight years.
Translation: Old hag, just vanish already and quit your endless prattle.

Chapter 3

Queen Mother Isabella’s fury was palpable, filling the grand hall of the Royal Palace with a charged tension that set everyone on edge. As soon as she left, she summoned the Royal Physician, clearly intent on expressing her displeasure.
Sir Cedric assumed she was still troubled by Countess Beatrice's recent antics, and he hesitated to join her. However, he ultimately decided to accompany Queen Mother Isabella for dinner.
After the afternoon's relentless pressure, Queen Mother Isabella managed to keep her composure during the evening meal with His Majesty, King Henry. Though she did not openly lash out, her questions were sharp and probing.
King Henry, for his part, offered little by way of candor, only perfunctory responses that did little to soothe her. There was no way Queen Mother Isabella would air her grievances about Duchess Elena; the Duchess was well aware that this weakness allowed her to provoke Queen Mother Isabella without fear of consequence.
Countess Beatrice had learned a lesson from this ordeal, though Prince Rupert seemed unphased. He knew that as long as opportunity knocked, everything would turn around for him.
Lady Miranda, on the other hand, felt a twinge of injustice. She knew she had made a mistake and deserved punishment, yet it stung to see Countess Beatrice basking in increasing favor while she silently resented King Henry but dared not voice it.
The formalities surrounding Lady Victoria’s upcoming coronation were still pending, but Lady Seraphina and her sons had returned to the capital. Their visit served a dual purpose: to report on their duties and to pay homage to the elderly Duke and Lady Lavinia.
Sir Percival brought his sons and the ever-dutiful Lady Flora back. This year, there was no homecoming for Lady Gwendolyn, a minor issue but one that meant the fathers and sons could not all travel together.
On the day they returned, the two boys rushed to meet His Majesty while Lady Flora took the children back to their residence. At home, Lady Gwendolyn and Lady Fiona were already waiting within the confines of their bustling manor, and members of the extended family were also in attendance, making for a lively atmosphere.
In the palace, as Lady Seraphina knelt before North Hall to pay her respects, Sir Cedric gazed upon her long, dark hair and felt a wave of sentiment wash over him. The Grand Marshal was in good spirits, which brought a smile to his face.
“Tomorrow evening, I shall host a banquet and invite the Grand Marshal to join us at court. We haven’t seen each other in three years,” Sir Cedric said as he helped Lady Seraphina to her feet.
“Your Majesty, I am honored and will be sure to attend,” Lady Seraphina replied, rising gracefully.
“That's wonderful. Lady Victoria should also come out to meet you soon; she hasn't yet had the pleasure of meeting our little Princess Lavinia. She's a bright young girl,” Sir Cedric remarked with evident pride.
Lady Seraphina smiled, “While I haven’t met Princess Lavinia yet, in her letters, Lady Hermione has often spoken of her intelligence and beauty.”
“Indeed, she is quite the mischievous little sprite,” Sir Cedric said, his mood brightening at the mention of his daughter. Lady Seraphina felt a sense of warmth seeing him in such high spirits; it was good that the King cherished Princess Lavinia.
With Lady Seraphina and company departing the palace, the young princes and princesses in South Chamber had just finished their lessons. The Sixth and Seventh Princesses hurried over to North Hall.
Sir Cedric playfully announced that their grandfather had arrived, but alas, little Princess Lavinia, still too young to comprehend, looked back at him with confusion.
The Sixth Princess, equally perplexed, chimed in, “But where is my grandfather?”
With a thought of her own father, who was King Henry, Sir Cedric chuckled slightly. Children, after all, were easily placated, and once their spirits lifted, they scampered off with little jewel boxes in hand.
Lady Gwendolyn wasn’t surprised; she often collected such treasures brought home by the little ones. Yet when the Sixth Princess returned home to Rainy Haven, she simply couldn’t contain her excitement. “Mother Gwendolyn, look!” she exclaimed.
Lady Anais took the box from her hand, her smile brightening. “This is lovely! Now we can send it to the Chamber of Affairs and have it made into some jewelry for you.”
“Seventh Sister received one too!” the Sixth Princess added eagerly.
“Really? Your father is generous with you both,” Lady Anais remarked, ever practical. While she herself was not overly favored, neither was she neglected, especially with the Sixth Princess around to secure her share of the King's affections. It was a stark contrast to Dame Thalia, who once enjoyed more attention from the King, but now only visited on occasion.
United by sisterhood, they all lent their support to Lady Victoria.

Chapter 4

Although she often remained quiet, Princess Veronica would definitely stand up when it mattered most.
Princess Veronica and Princess Lavinia shared a strong bond, and Lady Arabesque was a rare sisterly figure in their lives. Over the years, they have supported each other without vying for the crown's favor, setting a fine example within the royal harem.
“Lady Arabesque, our princesses and Princess Lavinia are so close. They go everywhere together; it’s truly wonderful,” said Lily Kingsley, one of the royal guards.
“Absolutely, it’s great to have friends growing up together, especially at their age,” Lady Arabesque replied.
“So much has been happening in the palace lately, yet the young princesses remain safe and sound. What do you think is going on with Grand Princess Isabella? Is her mind a bit clouded? It’s one thing to get caught in a royal skirmish, but she seems to think she can wield power all because of her mother's prestige,” Lily said, shaking her head.
“Some people just overthink everything. Lady Miranda, despite her two daughters, is still just a concubine, having come from a lesser background. People often become dissatisfied; even a small wish can lead to major trouble.” Lady Arabesque shook her head. “I’ve always believed she lacked the capability to manage things, and it seems I was right. Grand Princess Isabella’s actions have already disappointed His Majesty King Henry. Otherwise, why would she be engaged so soon?”
“Right, although Lord Victor once held a title, he’s long since fallen from grace,” Lily added.
“Lady Arabesque.” A servant called from outside.
“Come in,” Lady Arabesque responded.
“Lady Arabesque, there’s been an incident. Miss Isabelle has hurt herself and claims that you pushed her. The Royal Physician has already examined her, but we don’t yet know about the child,” the servant said, urgency in his voice.
Lady Arabesque’s expression turned anxious. “We need to check on her immediately.”
Lily hurriedly suggested, “We should inform Lady Victoria first.”
“That’s unnecessary; she will find out on her own,” said another servant.
Soon, Lady Arabesque and Lily made their way out of Flickering Firefly Hall.
News had spread throughout the palace. Those who needed to be there rushed over, some disinterested, yet compelled to attend.
On the way to the Palace of the Flowing Clouds, Lily explained, “Not long ago, His Majesty planned to visit Miss Isabelle since she is pregnant. But he happened to see Lady Arabesque enjoying the blooming flowers and decided against it. However, he had informed the Palace of the Flowing Clouds beforehand. So… Miss Isabelle might be resentful towards Lady Arabesque for this reason.”
“What a troublesome mindset; using her child’s wellbeing as a reason to harbor resentment,” Lady Gwendolyn said evenly.
They reached the Palace of the Flowing Clouds, where to their surprise, Queen Mother Isabella had also arrived.
This was indeed peculiar—a mere Miss Isabelle had managed to capture the attention of the Queen Mother.
With her arrival, the situation became gravely serious, and the Royal Physician inside looked increasingly tense.
Lady Gwendolyn felt unsettled but masked her emotions. Upon entering, she saw Lady Arabesque kneeling in the yard, looking utterly desolate.
Frowning, Lady Gwendolyn walked inside and respectfully greeted the Queen Mother. She intended to inquire about what had happened.
But Queen Mother Isabella wasted no time and instead launched into a tirade, “How could you manage the harem and allow this to happen? If anything happens to Miss Isabelle’s pregnancy, I will not spare you. You must bear the consequences of this incident.”

Chapter 5

Lady Gwendolyn had always held a measure of respect for Queen Mother Isabella; after all, she was the mother of Sir Cedric. But today, with her own temper frayed and the atmosphere tense, it was the queen's unreasonable behavior that triggered her ire.
Rising from her seat, Gwendolyn declared, “Queen Mother Isabella has lived for decades yet acts so irrationally. Just because I oversee the Harem, does that mean I should babysit every single one of them? If something goes awry and I’m not there to answer your questions, how is that my fault? Is this anger aimed at me just because I handle the Harem? If you’re unsatisfied with my role, perhaps you should ask His Majesty King Henry to appoint someone else. Dame Anneliese is also involved, so why do you only lash out at me?”
“How dare you speak to me like this!” Isabella snapped, her fury palpable.
“It’s not simply me being impertinent; perhaps you’re the one who’s overstepping. Miss Isabelle is just a minor consort. What makes her so worthy of your intense scrutiny? So what if she carries an heir? Mistress Arabesque was sent here for diplomatic relations from the Realm of the Hundred Leaves. She has served His Majesty King Henry flawlessly for years. Yet, you ignore our alliances and demand she kneel based on your unfounded assumptions. Does that seem right?”
“Now you think you can challenge me? You dare?” Isabella was fuming.
“Do you think it’s me who’s being obstinate, or is it really your habit of meddling? Lady Victoria only reacted in the heat of the moment, all for the good of His Majesty King Henry.” Granny Dorrie interjected gently, eager to calm the situation.
Lord Alaric, recognizing the escalating tension, quickly knelt and added, “Please, Queen Mother, let’s focus on Miss Isabelle’s well-being. There are so many of us here; it would be best if you took a moment away to rest.”
“Indeed, dear aunt, it’s best if you let this go for now. If His Majesty King Henry arrives and sees things like this, it won’t bode well for anyone,” Duchess Elena chimed in, hoping to diffuse the situation.
But Isabella was far from ready to concede, her anger still boiling.
“Look at all of you! You’ve all turned against me! This is rebellion!” she shouted, her eyes ablaze.
Lady Gwendolyn, rolling her eyes, conceded, “Queen Mother, please, I spoke out of turn. I apologize. Let’s not allow this to escalate further.”
It was imperative not to let Isabella’s rage consume her entirely. Though she typically shunned backing down, the collective coaxing from Granny Dorrie and Lord Alaric eventually nudged the queen mother away from the confrontation.
“Get Mistress Arabesque back on her feet.”
With that command, Lady Gwendolyn strode into the inner chamber.
The Royal Physician greeted her and respectfully reported, “Your Grace, there’s been some bleeding, though it does not appear to threaten the pregnancy. However, the situation is serious.”
Miss Isabelle was in tears, “Mistress Arabesque pushed me. It was just a few sharp words exchanged, and then….”
Mistress Arabesque remained silent, her expression unreadable.
“Enough. If you want to protect your child, you need to calm down. I will get to the bottom of who is in the right.” Lady Gwendolyn said coolly.
Miss Isabelle fell quiet, sensing the weight of Lady Gwendolyn's authority.
Though she had the reputation of a firecracker, she knew how to pick her battles; against Lady Victoria, she felt more like a helpless plant.
With Miss Isabelle no longer speaking, Lady Gwendolyn assessed her for a moment and advised, “Take care of yourself. If you fail to safeguard the child, do not expect my sympathy if the worst happens.”
With that, she exited the room.
Outside, Dame Anneliese remarked, “I’m at a loss as to how this all escalated. Mistress Arabesque is also refusing to speak.”
“If Mistress Arabesque isn’t talking, and Miss Isabelle isn’t being clear, then punishment for both. Miss Isabelle, you can focus on carrying the child, but the consequences of pain are yours to bear. Mistress Arabesque will receive a three-month pay cut along with a month of house arrest. How do you feel about that?” Lady Gwendolyn asked firmly.
“Yes, thank you, Your Grace. I have no objections.” Mistress Arabesque replied, the defeat evident in her tone.
It was true that she had given Miss Isabelle a shove—but certainly not with the intention of causing harm. It had simply been a reaction to the horrible things said in the heat of the moment.
“From here on out, keep your distance from each other. Consider this a warning. If there’s another incident, I won’t be able to protect you,” Lady Gwendolyn cautioned.
Mistress Arabesque agreed readily.
She understood that Lady Victoria’s intervention had ultimately aided her cause.

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