Part of the Plan?

The Queen sighed in quiet contemplation, her face carefully hidden behind her intricately designed fan.

She was a woman of great wisdom, someone who had seen the ways of the court for many years. She understood people, their schemes, their ambitions, and their desires.

And at this moment, as she observed her niece entangled in this elaborate performance, she could not help but feel both amused and concerned.

She knew the truth.

Alex was not just some random mercenary or noble with unknown origins. No, he was the future Emperor, a man who had stepped into this kingdom under a hidden identity.

He was undercover, playing a role, carefully calculating each move while maintaining his true purpose. And yet, as she watched him now, she couldn't help but wonder—was he still just acting?

She knew that they were far more liberal in the Empire, but he should know that it wouldn't work that way here. He was a wise man... Wasn't he?