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Wedding Bells and Cockle Shells

Author: bluemorose
last update Last Updated: 2024-05-05 18:35:14

*Ana*

“Marriage?” I repeat the word. “You…want to talk about-” I pause to look around the room.

“You mean,” I point at myself, “My marriage?”

“Yes, your marriage,” Duke Zaver nods with another laugh behind him.

“Are we finally talking about it?” A noble woman turns to another with a happy clap.

“Now that the coronation is over, we can resolve the real issues.”

“Real issues?” I repeat as Duke Zaver takes back the spotlight.

“As you can see, your empress,” Duke Zaver cuts over, gesturing to the ruly crowd. “Everyone is anxious to see this matter settled.”

“You are anxious? About my marriage?” I must repeat to see Duke Zaver and many others nod in agreement.

“Now that the coronation is at an end, We should start deliberating on who shall share the throne with you-”

“My marriage is more important than… the colonies?”

“Er, in a way, yes, your Empress.” Duke Zaver stiffens a little. “We need to secure an heir.”

“An heir?” I nod slowly. I understand the words, but it’s like translating
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