"My dear," she said, her tone warm but steady, "this is how it has always been."
Portia pulled back slightly, her brows furrowed. "But it's wrong. You did nothing."
"I am the highest official of the harem," the Queen replied. "When there is scandal, I bear the consequences. This is the cost of leadership — and of silence."
Portia looked down, ashamed. "Then I will go with you."
"No," the Queen said immediately, lifting her chin. "You will stay. You will endure. You will learn."
She touched Portia's cheek gently, brushing away a tear with her thumb.
"Learn from this. Never repeat your mistakes. And remember — when you wear the crown, you must protect the people who can never protect themselves. Even if it costs you everything."
"I know…" Portia said, her voice shaking with emotion. "But Mother, I wasn't at fault. I wasn't trying to create a scene—I was trying to protect Consort Azalea."
