In the shadow of impending conflict to the North, Schameister Castle stood alone, as a silent witness to the turmoil that brewed within its walls. As Duke Camio rode forth with his knights and guards, the weight of responsibility bore down heavily upon lady Adelaide, left behind to manage the affairs of the duchy in his absence. With her: a castle full of noble guests, a grand logistic operation, and the duty of keeping it together.

Lady Sybella, her elegant facade masking a mind adept at manipulation, seized the opportunity to sow seeds of discord. She discredited Adelaide’s position, and persuaded many she was bound to become duchess. That would keep things together and put pressure on her liege at the same time – a bountiful strategy, it would so seem.

Turning to another tune, with a cunning that belied her graceful demeanour, she approached Lady Adelaide under the guise of offering support and counsel.

“Adelaide,” Sybella began, her voice friendly, no words for titles, yet laced with subtle patronising, “while my duke is away, it falls upon us to ensure the stability and prosperity of Schameister. Yet, I fear there are those within our midst who seek to undermine our efforts.”

Adelaide regarded her warily, sensing the underlying threat in Sybella's words. “Who do you imply, Lady Sybella? Speak plainly!”

Sybella's smile was as sharp as a blade. “Who indeed… That I cannot be certain, there are whispers of treachery, of secret alliances and clandestine meetings. I have reason to believe that there are those who plot to seize control of the duchy for their own gain. It should be ideal if you focused your efforts on investigating those.”

Adelaide's heart quickened. She knew that to ignore Sybella’s warnings could spell disaster for Schameister, yet to act rashly could play into her hands. She pondered her next move carefully, knowing that the fate of the duchy hung in the balance.

As Lady Adelaide grappled with the implications of Sybella’s insinuations, she realized the precarious position she found herself in. The castle, bustling with nobles, was a powder keg ready to explode at the slightest spark of social pressure. She would already not ignore the fact that there were traitors in their midst, but she also could not follow Sybella’s cue – that would yield all power to the schemer. 

With a calm resolve, Adelaide addressed Sybella. “We appreciate your concern, Lady Sybella, but the duchy’s governance and my investigation will not be swayed by fear, I am not feeble. I know there are traitors among us, and it is my duty to root them out – I am already investigating and will make sure all treachery is paid in kind, for every last whisper.”

Sybella's smile faltered, her eyes narrowing. She thought of letting silence hang for a moment.

Adelaide, however, remained steadfast and dismissed Sybella, her mind already racing with plans to expose and deal with any potential threats to the duchy – including Sybella herself. She knew that the road ahead would be fraught with danger, but she was determined to navigate it with integrity and resolve, no matter the cost.