Chapter 13: Suggestion..
"Your Majesty, she is mute and can barely attempt speech. How can she guide the people as a queen?" one of the council members asked respectfully as he stood. Ten council members were present at the meeting.
Zavren sat silently at the head of the long table, unfazed. His fingers tapped an ink pen lightly against the polished wood. His gaze was calm, indifferent—bored, even.
"May I advise that a queen who can speak would be more appreciated? Not to mention, she could still remain by your side as a mistress, if you so desire," the man continued, his voice still low and respectful.
Zavren leaned back, a quiet, devilish grin curling on his lips.
"Any other suggestions? There’s plenty of room for them," Zavren said coldly, his voice echoing through the chamber as he crossed his legs, clearly growing more intrigued by the second.
A brief silence fell before another man dared to speak.
"Her reputation is not as clean as we require. It was discovered that her husband died on the day of their wedding."
"Hmm. Isn’t that interesting," Zavren interrupted with a chilling grin, causing heads to turn in alarm.
"Go on," he commanded.
The man—likely in his late thirties—nodded and continued nervously.
"Y-Your Majesty, it was also discovered that she is pregnant."