Lucian and Victoria sat side by side in the grand council chamber. It is a space adorned with tapestries depicting the kingdom's rich history. The ministers were assembled before them, their faces serious as they discussed the pressing matters of the realm. Reports on crop yields, border security, and the treasury's state were presented and debated.
As the last of the reports were concluded, a heavy silence fell over the room. Lucian sensed that something unspoken lingered on the minds of his ministers.
Head Minister Marlowe, a man known for his cunning and ambition, cleared his throat and stood. "Your Majesty, if I may," he began, his voice steady but tinged with a subtle edge. "There is a rumor circulating within the palace. It speaks of you taking in an unknown concubine."
Lucian's h
