As Simon was busy creating trouble for the identified enemies in the capital, attempting to sabotage their plans, Maria in Andalusia County found that her period was delayed by half a month, with no signs of arrival. It had always been very regular before, so pregnancy was now nearly certain.

“Really?” Julia, the only one present, was so excited by Maria’s conclusion that she almost wanted to cheer. She turned to announce the news, “I’ll go tell everyone right away!”

“No,” Maria called her back. “Don’t mention this to anyone for now.”

Julia looked puzzled, so Maria gently and joyfully touched her own stomach, “I plan to surprise Simon.”

Such...