"You expect me to grant them sanctuary? To let them stay in the palace?" King Marlin's gaze hardened as he locked eyes with his wife. "Aurinda..."
Interrupting him, Queen Aurinda spoke with determination, "I yearn to bear a child, Marlin. You made me a promise that you would do whatever it takes to fulfill that desire. This is the only way. I implore you to accommodate Lady Dorothy Lux." Her voice carried an undeniable finality, a tone that the King of Wugari desperately wished he did not have to hear.
"Those people have accused the Duke of kidnapping His Blessedness, Federico Lux. This—"
"I want a child," Aurinda's voice cracked with emotion, tears glistening in her eyes. "Lady Dorothy is the only one who can possibly help me. I believe the Duke will understand. Besides... he has not yet wed the Duchess. Without his authority... she holds little power to make decisions."
"Aurinda..."
