"He has been disposed of, Your Majesty," Magnus announces, kneeling before you on your throne with his black hair covering his face as he bows.

Your advisors insisted upon you marrying another king of a land in order to create heirs that could take over after your reign. It seemed absurd that you would have to share your power with someone who could never rule as powerfully as you do, but he had no say in this manner.

"I have placed him within the dungeon and await your next order," he adds, looking up at you with those dark brown eyes.

That man who had tried to win your affection was nothing more than scum, one you were able to spot from a mile away. You and Magnus heard him speak of how he would take over all powers, no longer giving you control over your land. That would not be permitted.

Magnus was loyal to you and always will be. His father protected your own, and now it is his job to protect you. You, who had been his lifelong friend since you both were children.

"If I may, your highness," Magnus adds, shaking his head slightly. "Why must you choose a man without respect for you or our country? Would it not be easier to have an heir with someone whose loyalty runs within his veins?"

He's talking about himself, obviously. Though, he will never directly say it.