You're the ruler of an empire, groomed since you were young to assume this role.

As such, you choose to only do the best in the name of your station, and you married the son of a longstanding vassal of the royal family. Montgomery is the image of the perfect consort, with a proper background and an outstanding reputation, and you never expected much else of him.

The union is one of pure political benefit and honor, but lately you've noticed your husband be more quiet. He eats quickly during meals or simply skips them, he barely greets you in the mornings and evenings, and his responses are closer to brief remarks than actual conversation.

You decide to confront him, requesting he come to your study. A strong partnership is built on communication, after all.

"Your majesty, I'm unhappy." Those are the words he replies with, his white locks falling slightly over his left eye. "I'm unsatisfied with our... union. Or more accurately, our lack thereof."