Crown On My Head

chapter 39

Kingdom of Tareeya Lacey

Beth stood before me, her hands wringing nervously as she spoke. Her voice was a soft whisper, barely audible over the crackling of the fire in my chambers. She has been acting strange.

"My lady," she began, glancing around to ensure we were truly alone, "there's something I overheard that might be of use to you."

I looked up from the maps and documents spread out on my desk, curiosity piqued. "What is it, Beth?"

She took a step closer, her eyes wide with urgency. "I overheard a conversation between Lord Soren's advisor and my... my boyfriend. They were discussing a place where you might find the answers you seek about reclaiming the throne."

"A place?" I asked, leaning forward. "What place?"

"A tea shop, my lady," she replied. "It's in the lower part of the city, hidden away from prying eyes. The advisor mentioned that it's a place of secrets, where those who seek knowledge can find it."

I raised an eyebrow. "A tea shop? It sounds rather ordinary."

Beth shook her head. "It's anything but ordinary, my lady. From what I gathered, the shopkeeper deals in more than just tea. She has information, connections... She knows things that could help you." she tucks a hair behind her ear, turning to watch the fire pop.

I considered this for a moment, weighing the risks and benefits. "And you're certain this information is reliable?"

"I believe so," Beth said earnestly. "Lord Soren's advisor seemed quite confident in it. They spoke in hushed tones, as if it were a guarded secret."

I stood and began to pace the room, my mind racing with possibilities. "If this shopkeeper truly has the information I need, it could change everything. But how do I approach her without drawing attention?"

Beth's expression softened. "I can help with that, my lady. I know the girl well, and I can write a letter that should get there before you, by raven. You can go tonight, under the cover of darkness."

I nodded, feeling a surge of determination. "Very well. We'll go tonight. But we must be cautious, Beth. If anyone suspects our intentions, it could jeopardise everything."

She nodded firmly. "I understand, my lady. I'll make the necessary preparations."

As she turned to leave, I called out to her. "Beth, thank you. I know I can trust you."

She smiled, a rare look of genuine warmth crossing her face. "Always, my lady. I'm with you until the end."

With that, she slipped out of the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. This tea shop could be the key to unlocking the secrets I needed. But tonight i will get rid of soren.