Book 18: Chapter 7
“Your Majesty, there has been a slanderous rumour circulating in the Imperial Palace.”
“In what regards? My policies? Was something we discussed leaked, or is there some strange rumour being spread?”
“None of the above.” Freya bit her lip. After much hesitation, she elaborated, “The topic is spreading primarily from the maids and some gossip from the noble ladies. They are claiming your relationship with the Consorts is facing problems. They say you cannot satisfy them, which is why lots of people have an urge to do something to your relationship with them.”
The rumour left me with a stupefied look: “What sort of bizarre rumour is that? Where is this coming from? Nier, Lucia and I haven’t had any conflicts. Why do I suddenly have a problem with my Consorts?”
Maybe that was why the rumour existed.
Freya smiled helplessly: “Sorry, Your Majesty, but I do not know how the rumour started, myself. Either way, the topic has now reached the streets and alleys, too. Whatever the case may be, it is not bad news about the imperial family. Of course, we cannot punish the person who started the rumour. However, we can, at least, clear up the rumour. It is not favourable to you as a man, after all. It will be troublesome for your dignity.”
“Have I not been intimate with Nier and Lucia for a long time these days?”
I touched my head. Recently, I had relatively lots of work. I needed to handle the military business and meet with lots of people. I was busy all the way until night time. Nier turned in by the time I was done. It wasn’t the best idea to disturb Lucia, either, as her energy was at its peak during those hours, while I was too tired to play with her. As a result, I didn’t done anything with my two wives in a long time.
I ate breakfast together with my wives, but I gave Freya more attention because she might say something important. My two wives were understanding and sensible; they never interrupted us. In saying that, I finally realised I hadn’t spent time with them in a long time.