Nikolai shifted uncomfortably. "Viktor likely worries merely to balance many prominent voices. I am sure he intends no insult-""He insults not just my status but yours in marginalizing me thus!" Anastasia cut in sharply. "You will be bound as my husband and consort - how dare Viktor sideline his equal in standing!"She took Nikolai's hands pleadingly. "You must demand he include me, else he cares nothing for your authority!" Swayed as always by Anastasia's temper and tears, Nikolai embraced her. "You speak rightly, my dear. I shall stand firmer that you are accorded full respect!"Inwardly Anastasia smiled like a viper. Let Viktor try denying her with his witless younger brother insisting she be given a seat at the table! She had molded her finest pawn yet...one to clear her pathway to utter supremacy.The board was arranged to her advantage once more. Anastasia had sacrificed a useless rogue poison plot but gained a stubborn champion. Now for decisive checkmate…Viktor was relucta

On the 20th anniversary of Viktor and Amy's coronation, the royal couple celebrated with a grand jubilee commemorating two decades of just rule. Dignitaries from allied nations came bearing gifts in honor of their trusted friends' milestones.No shadow darkened festivities focused on the monarchs' legacy of steady guidance and compassionate policymaking. Even once uneasy nobles now praised Amy and Viktor's commitment to equality and ethical governance.As music echoed through the candlelit halls and people danced laughing, Viktor and Amy stole a quiet moment alone on a balcony overlooking the joyous scene. "Who would have believed such unity and contentment was possible in those early tumultuous days of our reign?" marveled Amy. "Or predicted one so brazenly grasping as Anastasia would fade quietly from memory?" Viktor smiled, eyes crinkling fondly at his wife whose wisdom and courage transformed their nation. "Your vision and steadfastness built this, my queen. The dark days served

Nikolai was bitter that Viktor scolded him over his affection for Amy. He thought since he was unmarried without an heir, he deserved a chance to win Amy's heart if his brother could not see her value.In his anger, Nikolai made secret plans to get revenge against Viktor. He contacted old allies of the exiled Anastasia, hinting they help him overthrow Viktor on the condition that Nikolai take the throne - and Amy as his queen.Nikolai spread lies that Viktor was still too physically and mentally weak from his illness to effectively rule the kingdom. He raised doubts with key generals and ministers, hoping to turn them against Viktor as unfit.Meanwhile behind Viktor's back, Nikolai tried continually persuading Amy that he could make her happier than his stubborn harsh brother. He snuck exotic gifts and love notes insisting she deserved better than Viktor gave.Amy pleaded with Nikolai to stop his campaign against them, promising she only wished friendship from him. But the jealous prin

Alexei also shrewdly suggested including emissaries to minority tribal groups in these territories who often felt neglected by rulers focused inward. If shown respect, they could prove valuable allies exposing militant infiltrators.Before departing to temper fears and fortify support beyond Viktor's immediate reach, Alexei bid his family fond farewells, promising victory against renewal of old conflicts.Katrina smiled bravely, offering her husband a ceremonial sword and new armor. "Stay mindful of those counting on their prince's grit and compassion," she entreated at his stirrup.Viktor warmly embraced his son, pride and concern warring behind his eyes. As Alexei rode off purposefully, Viktor prayed this promising heir could knit strong enough alliances to bring swift, decisive peace.Alexei rode swiftly to the border regions, determined to unify the people against his uncle's violent militia bands stirring chaos. In remote villages, he listened as elders described recent raids on p

Katrina wavered, on the verge of speech, but seemed to falter. Alexei crouched before her, troubled blue gaze searching hers. "Please, let me help bear this burden."Her composure shattered then. Covering her face, Katrina wept with abandon, leaving Alexei baffled. He gathered her shaking form into his arms."Shhh....whatever haunts you, we will face together," he murmured tenderly, stroking her hair.At last she looked up at him, eyes raw and swollen. "I was with child when you left. But I lost it. Our child is gone..." Her voice broke on the words.Shock and sorrow knifed through Alexei. He held her close, voice husky with shared grief. "Oh my heart, I am so sorry..." They clung to one another as the moon traversed the night sky.In the days after Katrina's devastating revelation, Alexei wrestled with churning emotions. Though he maintained a strong front before the court, inwardly he reeled from the loss revealed to him. Their child, a piece of himself and his beloved, gone without