The Pillars of the Earth
Describe Aliena's plan to get Shiring back for Richard.
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Aliena points out that if Richard were to forcibly take back Earlscastle, Stephen is unlikely to fight him for it. Aliena counts on the friendship she developed with William's young wife, Elizabeth. On the day of the raid, Aliena rides into the castle alone. Aliena slips into the castle and convinces Elizabeth to trick the castle guards into surrendering. She orders them to assemble in the courtyard. Pretending she has received a message from William, Elizabeth stalls as Richard's men approach the castle. She convinces her guards that the incoming riders have been sent by William. As soon as Richard is within the walls, Elizabeth announces that Richard of Kingsbridge is now the rightful earl. She orders her men to surrender.