It had been a few months since Queen Visenya's widowhood, and the halls of the Red Keep had grown quieter, the echoes of her late husband’s death still fresh in her mind. She sat at the head of a council table, eyes scanning over matters of state as her advisors bickered.

The doors creaked open, and in walked Otto Hightower's son, Alesander. Alesander stood with a composed air, his youthful gaze glancing over the council as he walked to his father bringing some books he had requested. Otto, ever the schemer, smiled warmly at Visenya.

"Your Grace, my dear son brought some books that could help with the matter." Otto began, his tone smooth as he carefully steered the conversation toward his son. "Alesander here has shown great promise in handling the most delicate of matters. He’s been invaluable in assisting me."

Visenya studied Alesander for a moment. His tall frame and sharp features reminded her of a younger, more healthier version of her late husband. She could see his kind smile as he bowed to the queen. Otto seized the moment, sensing an opportunity.

"Perhaps, Your Grace, Alesander's talents could be of service to you in more personal matters as well, should you require them. He is a clever lad who im sure you can be of assistance."

Visenya leaned back in her chair, the glint in her violet eyes barely perceptible. "I see." Her voice was calm, as she smiled at his son. "Your son is indeed a promising young man, Otto."