Return to the castle.

The loot inspected, you and Roland head off. Corinne says she'll dispose of the boat, and co-ordinate with her mother to transport the ill-gotten riches out of Beatha. A short horseback ride later, you and Roland slip back into the castle, no one noticing your absences.

-

The next day, Kara at your side, you pay a visit to Madeleine. The princess lies back on the couch in her quarters, a pillow propped under her neck, wearing a full length silk nightgown and robe. Elodie scurries about, providing her lady with various sweets and cups of tea, while Swain takes down notes on a large schematic the princess dictates to him.

“Hail, Madeleine.” Kara says, stepping forward boldly. “Do hope you're feeling better. I brought you some flowers.” your wife adds, raising the loose bundle of purple and red flowers she brought along.

Madeleine sits up, intrigued.

“Wherever did you find those, in this season?” the Red Princess asks.

“Out on the isle. You must've seen it when you came up, aye? When I was a lass, these were always my maw's favourites. I thought you'd like them too.”

Madeleine smiles, a touched twinkle in her eyes, or the one that isn't swollen mostly shut, anyway. She snaps at Elodie to find a vase, then turns her attention back to the Beathan.

“That's so thoughtful, Kara!” Madeleine simpers. “Yes, I do recall seeing your little island. I've seen some queer things in Beatha, but an evergreen island really takes the cake. I almost wish I could see it up close for myself.”

“I'll take you over when you're feelin' better.” Kara promises. “It's only a short sail, and-”

“No. Unfortunately, I don't travel across bodies of water. Lakes, seas, particularly wide rivers, what have you.” Madeleine deflects. "It's just not something I do."

“What? Why-” Kara begins, only for Swain, unseen by his mistress, to shake his head, making a gesture around his neck. Kara may not be as knowledgeable about Madeleine's past, but you imagine you know why: Garnier, Madeleine's older half-brother, one of Sinnabarrow's original heirs, had been lost at sea when she was very young.

“So... Madeleine, what are you and Benjamin workin' on?” Kara asks, awkwardly changing the subject.

“First of all, I'm doing all the work, Benjy's simply taking notes, Kara.” Madeleine tells the princess. “I'm working on a cage for that deranged giantess you hauled back from the Fens.”

“You don't have to worry about her, Madeleine. We've got her under lock an' key.” Kara insists. The Sinnabarrovian titters.

“I know. I had Benjy look into the conditions you're keeping her in, and honestly, they left rather a lot to be desired.” Madeleine declares. “The cell I'm working on will be far more secure. Show them, Swain.”

As Madeleine leans back, the bard shows you both the blueprints he's been drawing up on his lady's orders. It's an impressive design, with robust bars that take Hjordis' size and strength into account, as well as systems provided to allow meals to be passed to the half-giantess without putting the jailers at risk.

“Very impressive Madeleine, but I'm not sure this much security is necessary. We've men on her day and night.” Kara points out.

“Nonsense!” Madeleine retorts. “One can never be too safe. I don't know about you, but I don't fancy the thought of that overgrown thug escaping, coming back to finish the job.”

“Y'know she only twatted you 'cause you got up in her face, insulted her, aye?” Kara offers. “I've no love for the evil ****-making bitch, but she's a warrior, and warriors deserve respect at all times.”

“Honestly, it's funny what different cultures find worthy of respect.” Madeleine scoffs, pressing a hand to her forehead. “Where I'm from, we respect culture, education, financial prowess. I suppose here in Beatha, you prefer to honour violent raiders who **** perfectly innocent princesses.”

“You're damn right I respect a warrior more than some merchant ponce.” Kara responds, losing her composure slightly. “And before you go moanin' about getting' smacked one time, just think about all the poor folk Hjordis an' her lot sent to the next life, aye?”

“Whatever. I'm not the one who holds that monstrous woman in such high esteem, am I?” Madeleine goads.

“C'mon Edward.” Kara says tetchily, seizing you by your sleeve. “We're leavin'.”

As Kara marches out of Madeleine's chambers, practically dragging you along with her, you hear the Sinnabarrovian scoff.

“Gods, Edward certainly knows how to pick them, doesn't he Benjy?” Madeleine says, a hint of bitterness creeping into her voice.

-

“A-Are you alright?” you ask, once the two of you have put just enough distance between Madeleine and yourselves.

“Aye.” Kara says, taking a breath, attempting to center herself. “It's just... Madeleine, she doesn't half irritate me.”

“Yes, she's been known to have that effect on people.” you quip.

“It's not even her horrible manners, or how she treats her servants.” Kara admits. “It's more... She's been born with so many gifts, aye? And what does she use them for? T' prove how clever she is. Boastin'.”

“She's trying, in her own way.” you offer. “She came up here to help you win this war. Her designs-”

“Are just her showin' off to you and Donald.” Kara reasons. “Keepin' you both sweet on her so you'll help prevent Morland tippin' her off her throne a few years into her reign.”

“When did you get so cynical?” you chuckle.

“When it comes to Madeleine, love, I've always been cynical.” Kara admits.

“If you're that concerned, try talking to her.” you suggest. “Try to make her understand your way of thinking, that she can use her gifts and talents to do some real good.

“...You're right, a'course.” Kara admits reluctantly. “Still, part of me thinks goin' after Einar alone, wearin' nothing but warpaint and my axe'd be a less futile way of spending my time.”

“I-I'd certainly enjoy watching that.” You tell her, taking the warrior woman by the waist and pulling her close. The redheaded princess kisses you.

“I need to go an' train.” Kara decides, taking a breath. “Work off some of this frustration.”

“You know, there are other ways of doing that.” You say with a smile.

“Aye, I know.” Kara tells you with a smile. “Better make sure you're back in our quarters by this evenin'. I'm fairly fookin' frustrated.