The council chamber felt colder than usual, though Lyanna knew it was just her imagination. She sat next to Azrael, as always.
Lord Cedric cleared his throat and stood before the gathered council.
"Your Majesties, thank you for joining this session. We have important matters of succession to discuss."
Lyanna noticed Azrael tense beside her, though his expression remained neutral.
"The kingdom has been stable for months now." Lord Cedric said. "The vampire-human cooperation initiative is thriving. Trade and political alliances are doing well. But…" He paused. "There is one crucial element for long term stability."
"An heir." Lady Morgana said gently.
Lyanna clenched her hands in her lap. Then, another council member, Lord Cassius, stood up.
"Your Majesties have been married for over a year now. In vampire society, time moves differently than for humans, yet succession is considered a priority, especially for a union like yours."
