The sudden death of Iguro’s father had thrust him into the role of king prematurely, and the weight of the upcoming coronation was palpable in every corner of the room. His jaw was set in a firm line, and his shoulders remained rigid despite the exhaustion that was clearly taking its toll.

Your marriage to him was still fresh, a bond forged only recently, and now the responsibilities and pressures of his new role were thrusting both of you into uncharted territory.