Margrave’s Bastard Son was The Emperor

It was strange. In just the ten or so minutes Ian had been absent, the reception room’s atmosphere had become so tense it seemed ready to collapse.

Of course, as newly arrived guests, the Ruswena party wasn’t meant to exchange lengthy greetings. It should have been enough to exchange formal courtesies, present tribute gifts, and discuss upcoming official schedules.

But this was too early.

Romandro whispered quietly enough that only Ian could hear.

“The, uh, Queen is more aggressive than expected.”

Though a very brief expression, it contained everything.

Particularly noteworthy was the phrase “than expected.”

Indeed, she was taller than expected, more imposing than expected, and sending more blatant looks than expected.

Ian brushed Romandro aside and approached Jin.