Charlotte had barely left the Queen's chamber when hurried footsteps echoed along the corridor. Servants moved with unusual speed, murmuring to one another as anticipation spread through the palace like a quiet tremor. A guard approached and bowed.
"Your Majesty," he said. "The princesses have arrived. Their entourage waits at the gates."
The Queen's expression shifted at once, interest brightening her eyes. "Very well," she said. "Have them escorted in. And keep Charlotte nearby. I want her within sight."
Charlotte inclined her head. The order sat heavily with her. Visibility was dangerous, but refusal was not an option.
They moved toward the courtyard as the gates opened. The first carriage rolled through, followed by two more, polished wood and gold fittings catching the light. Servants hurried forward as four princesses stepped down together, their presence immediate and commanding. They did not rush. They did not look uncertain. They moved as though Fairwell had been expecting them all along.
Princess Clara of Hawthorne was the first to speak, her smile easy. "The roads were kinder than expected," she said. "I was prepared for dust and delays, but Fairwell seems determined to welcome us properly."
Princess Anne of Ravenford nodded. "The countryside was quiet," she said. "Orderly. It speaks well of your borders."
Princess Margaret of Blackwell laughed softly. "Order is pleasant, but comfort matters more. The journey was long, and I hope the palace beds are kinder than the roads."
Princess Eleanor of Westridge listened without interrupting, her gaze already taking in the courtyard, the guards, the servants, the Queen herself. Nothing escaped her attention.
"The gifts," Clara said, turning slightly. Servants stepped forward at once, presenting chests and carefully wrapped parcels. Gold gleamed as lids were opened. Fine cloth, rare metals, and jeweled ornaments were displayed with deliberate care.
"A small token," Clara said lightly. "From Hawthorne."
Anne inclined her head. "Ravenford sends its respect," she said.
Margaret gestured dismissively. "Blackwell values generosity," she said. "And visibility."
Eleanor stepped forward last. "Westridge offers goodwill," she said. Her tone was polite, measured.
The Queen regarded the gifts with visible satisfaction. "You honor Fairwell," she said. "Your journey here is appreciated."
As servants moved to carry the gifts inside, the princesses continued speaking among themselves, discussing the roads, the weather, the length of their stay. Their voices filled the courtyard, confident and unguarded.
It was only then that Margaret's gaze drifted outward, scanning the surrounding figures. It paused on Charlotte.
Margaret frowned slightly. "Who is she?" she asked.
The courtyard seemed to still.
Charlotte remained where she was, hands folded, eyes lowered.
Prince Adrien stepped forward before the question could deepen. "She serves under the Queen's command," he said.
Margaret studied him. "I asked about her," she said. "Not her orders."
Clara glanced between them, amused. "Fairwell keeps its servants close," she said. "That is… interesting."
Anne said nothing, but her eyes lingered briefly on Charlotte before shifting away.
Eleanor remained silent, her attention sharpening.
"She will remain where she is," the Queen said. "That is all you need to know."
Margaret smiled thinly. "Of course," she said. "I meant no offense. I was merely curious."
Charlotte felt the weight of their attention settle fully now. It was no longer passing. It was deliberate.
Margaret stepped closer. "You must be trusted," she said. "To stand so near the Queen."
"I serve as instructed," Charlotte said.
Margaret's smile widened. "Careful words."
Adrien's voice cut in. "That will be enough."
Margaret turned to him. "You are quick to defend," she said. "Is that common here?"
"It is," Adrien replied.
The Queen raised her hand. "You are guests," she said. "You will be shown to your chambers."
Servants moved at once. The princesses turned to follow, their conversation resuming as though nothing had occurred. Clara spoke of the gardens she wished to see. Anne asked about the library. Margaret laughed about the length of her gowns. Eleanor walked in silence.
As they passed, Eleanor glanced once at Charlotte. The look was brief, unreadable.
Charlotte exhaled slowly only after they were gone.
The Queen turned to her. "Stay close," she said. "These weeks will require attention."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Charlotte said.
Adrien looked at her. "They will watch you now," he said.
"I know," Charlotte replied.
The palace doors closed behind the visiting princesses. The gifts were carried inside. The court returned to motion. But Charlotte felt the shift clearly. The arrival had changed something fundamental.
The welcome was over.
The scrutiny had begun.