"Recently, strange rumors have been spreading all over the place," King Emeri started with a frown on his face. "The content of it is so incredulous that I can't help but doubt it because I knew your father's temperament very well. He was not the kind of man who could look at any other woman except your mother. But then, when I recalled the rumors about your… doll, I am no longer so certain. Care to elaborate about that, Duke Lacrosa?"
"Your Majesty," Jillian replied with his head lowered humbly. "As you know, rumors are exaggerated. You're right, my father is known for his loyalty and integrity. To accuse him of having an illegitimate child is a besmirch to his name. However, I would like to confirm that other than that, the rumors are mostly true. I, Jillian Lacrosa, have taken an oath to make Hayden my sworn brother."
Murmurs of apprehension and doubt echoed around the noblemen as soon as Jillian clearly showed his stance.
