As you eavesdropped on the conversation between Lady Katharina and Count Steffan, their voices grew more intense. Count Steffan urged Lady Katharina to consider a secret alliance that would secure his power within Castle Nibelung's court. Lady Katharina, torn between the potential benefits and the risks involved, seemed hesitant yet intrigued. Just as you strained to catch every word exchanged between them, a sudden noise echoed through the corridor, signaling the approach of someone unexpected. The source of the noise is revealed to be none other than Queen Ilse herself, who had been listening discreetly. Her eyes blaze with fury as she demands an explanation for this clandestine meeting in her own castle. Lady Katharina stammers, trying to find words to placate the enraged queen.