Post by Aneira Trevelyan on Dec 7, 2014 15:12:31 GMT -5
Truth could often be harsh, even cruel, especially when it presaged a time of unrest. Alexandre's decline continued steadily, bringing with it decisions that were often unwise or downright incendiary. Aneira was in a unique position, doing her best to prevent as many disasters as she could, yet she could not counter every move her King made, nor every choice he made. Fighting some of his advisors, particularly Prince Benoit, was no easy task. Her power and influence was not equal to his; she did not delude herself on that point, but utilized what allies she had in the remaining Councillors where she could.
The clock of Alexandre's life was ticking away, bringing with it the shadow of incipient mortality for the King. Aware that forewarning could avert certain actions, Aneira spent a sleepless night pacing her chambers with the weight of choice on her shoulders. Her encounter with Prince Stephane, along with other information, warned her that Benoit was neck-deep in schemes to supplant Nicolette with his son. Currently ambivalent on which was the more worthy candidate, she had not yet thrown support behind either.
Deciding to seek out one of the Councillors, namely the younger Prince and Lord Marshal, Aneira waited until Jean-Luc finished his morning training and his simple meal before approaching his office. Her presence would not go unnoticed or unremarked, yet it could not be helped. Influential she might be, but Aneira was not arrogant enough to presume to summon a Prince of Archades. Ignoring the blinks of surprise and the curious stares that followed her progress, she approached the aide de camp with a quiet smile, presenting her request to speak with the Lord Marshal.
Agreeing to wait in the outer room while the young man scurried off to beard the Dragon in his den, Aneira smoothed her gown and hair, the better to land the correct impression. She groomed herself for the meeting carefully, aware of the Marshal's widower status. Whether she would make an impact, she would see. Hopefully, he would consent to this...
Jean-Luc Deveraux