There was a lot of useless talk around the town and Layla needed to focus her attention on gathering the right one.

One vendor, his voice hushed but urgent, spoke to a customer about the prince. "They say he's gone missing, but the royal family is keeping it quiet. No one's supposed to know."

Another chimed in, her tone conspiratorial. "Do you think it's true? I heard he was last seen near the borders, but then he just vanished."

Mary and Rossette, seemingly unaware of Layla's intent, browsed through the stalls, occasionally holding up an item for Layla's opinion. She responded distractedly, her mind piecing together the fragments of gossip.

"So, what do you think of this scarf?" Mary asked, draping a vibrant silk scarf around her shoulders.

"It suits you," Layla replied absentmindedly, her attention still on the surrounding murmurs.

Rossette, who had been watching Layla closely, frowned. "You're not really here for the shopping, are you?"

Layla turned to her, a wry smile forming on her lips. "Observant as always, Rossette. I'm here to gather information. The city is alive with rumors, and I want to know what the people think about the missing prince and the royal family."

Mary's eyes widened in realization. "Ah, so this is more of a reconnaissance mission than a shopping spree."

"Precisely," Layla confirmed. "The ball is only a few days away, and understanding the public sentiment could give us an edge."

Rossette nodded, her expression serious. "In that case, we should split up and see what we can learn. We'll cover more ground that way."

Mary agreed, her playful demeanor giving way to a more focused one. "Let's meet back here in an hour and share what we've found."

Layla smiled, her heart warmed by their unwavering support. "Thank you, both of you. Let's make the most of this."

As they dispersed into the bustling streets, Layla felt a renewed sense of purpose. The capital was a treasure trove of information, and with Mary and Rossette by her side, she was determined to uncover the secrets hidden within its walls.

The royal ball loomed on the horizon, a stage set for intrigue and revelation, and Layla knew that every piece of knowledge gained could be the key to navigating the treacherous waters ahead.

______

Back at the inn, Layla made her way to the room where Eighth prince Alderic was being held.

The tension that had once electrified the air around him seemed to have dissipated. He sat on the edge of the bed, his posture no longer rigid but still exuding a hint of defiance.

His eyes flicked toward Layla as she entered, but he remained silent.

Layla closed the door behind her, her footsteps soft on the wooden floor. She stood before him, her expression calm and measured. "Prince Alderic," she began, her voice gentle but firm, "I am not your enemy."

He scoffed, folding his arms across his chest. "You expect me to believe that after you've taken me prisoner?"

"You are not a prisoner," Layla corrected. "You are our guest. And I have a proposal for you, one that could change the future of the royal family."

Alderic raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "What could you possibly propose that would interest me?"

Layla took a step closer, her gaze steady. "The royal family's power structure is flawed. Too much authority rests in the hands of one or two individuals.

This imbalance breeds corruption and discord. My proposal is simple: we redistribute the authority equally among the royal family members, ensuring that no one can dominate the others."

Alderic let out a short, harsh laugh. "You're a fool. Do you have any idea what you're suggesting? The royal family is not a group of benevolent rulers. They are power-hungry, dangerous, and will stop at nothing to maintain their dominance. Your dream is naive and useless."

Layla's eyes narrowed, a spark of determination igniting within them. "I am well aware of the dangers, Prince Alderic. That's precisely why I'm offering you this chance. Together, we can create a more balanced system, one where power is checked and shared."

The prince stared at her, his expression unreadable. For a moment, silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken thoughts. Finally, he exhaled, his shoulders relaxing just a fraction. "I need time to think."

Layla nodded, understanding his need for contemplation. "Take all the time you need. But know this: the current system benefits only a select few. With your help, we can change that."

Without another word, Layla turned and left the room, leaving Alderic to his thoughts.

The next day, Layla returned to his room, finding him sitting by the window, deep in thought. He looked up as she entered, his expression softer than before.

"I've considered your proposal," Alderic said, his voice measured. "You're right. The royal family's structure is flawed. If we continue on this path, it will lead to our downfall. I agree to your plan."

Relief washed over Layla, though she kept her composure. "I'm glad you've decided to join us. Together, we can make a difference."

Alderic stood, extending a hand toward her. "For the future of the royal family."

Layla took his hand, sealing their newfound alliance. "For a better future for all."

Layla watched Eighth prince Alderic closely, searching for any sign of deception in his eyes or demeanor. Her mind raced with possibilities—what if this was a trap?

What if he was only agreeing to her proposal to gain her trust, only to betray her at the first opportunity? The royal family was known for its cunning and treachery.

Trusting someone from within its ranks was a significant gamble.

Despite her internal doubts, Layla knew that change often required taking risks.

She couldn't reshape the corrupt power structure without allies, and Alderic, with his inside knowledge and influence, could be a crucial partner in her mission.

His agreement to her plan could signify a genuine desire for reform or a clever ploy to dismantle her efforts from within.

After a moment's reflection, Layla decided to take the leap of faith.

Trusting Alderic was a risk, but it was one she was willing to take for the potential rewards. She could not let fear of betrayal paralyze her actions.

Instead, she would move forward cautiously, keeping a watchful eye on Alderic while working toward their shared goal.

"Very well," she said, her tone steady. "Let's see this through together."