Rumors (1)

The grand halls of the Morrigan estate were cloaked in an oppressive silence as Esmeralda paced into her father's study. The room was suffused with the scent of aged leather and cigars, the walls lined with books that Gander Morrigan rarely read.

He stood by the window, his silhouette imposing against the evening light.

"Esmeralda," Gander said without turning, his voice sharp. "Have you heard the rumors?"

She crossed her arms, already bracing for his tirade. "Yes, Father. I've heard."

His face twisted as he spun around, his voice rising. "That woman is insatiable! Taking servants under her wing, taking them as her lovers, and the fact that she took fourteen wives—she's becoming uncontrollable! The Sceptre Council is losing its grip on her!"

Esmeralda smirked, leaning lazily against a chair. "Oh, don't be so dramatic, Father. I have control over her."