The following day, Duke “Ethan” stood in the Grand Throne Hall. The atmosphere was imposing, and the silence of the hall was broken only by the sound of his footsteps on the polished marble. He arrived at the Emperor’s throne, who looked at him questioningly. The Emperor knew “Ethan” well as a man of honor and loyalty, which made the sudden marriage to a girl from a traitorous family an unbelievable matter.

“Ethan” advanced with steady steps and presented the marriage contract to the Emperor, who took it and looked at it intently.

“Ethan,” the Emperor said in a deep voice, “May I know the reason behind this sudden decision? You are a wise man, but this marriage might taint your reputation.”

“Ethan” looked directly into his eyes and resolved to put on a mask of resolve and sincerity.

“Your Majesty,” “Ethan” said in a calm and convincing voice, “This marriage was not sudden to me. ‘Ilara’ has been my secret love for years. We were on the verge of marriage. I never imagined that her father would commit treason and that her family would become a target of shame for which she bears no blame.”

The Emperor raised an eyebrow but showed no doubt. He knew Ethan better than anyone.

“You know I trust you, Ethan,” the Emperor said quietly, “but this is a sensitive matter. Her family will die, and this marriage places her under your protection.”

“I believe in your justice, Your Majesty,” “Ethan” replied with measured words, “and this contract does not change my family’s loyalty or my loyalty to you one bit. This girl is innocent, and my marriage to her is the only way to save her from injustice. I ask for nothing but that you recognize the marriage contract which grants her the protection she deserves.”

The Emperor looked at “Ethan” once more, then offered a slight smile.

“Yes, you are the son of my dear brother and his trusted one. You do nothing except for good. It is done,” he said as he sealed the document. “She shall now be the Duchess of this palace, under your protection.”

“Ethan” thanked the Emperor and withdrew from the hall, leaving behind a sacred lie concealed in the name of honor and duty. Yet, he knew well that this lie would haunt every step of his new life.