The Duke and Duchess stood before the knights at the council table. He placed Faye's back against his chest, reaching around and tenderly placing his hand on her stomach.
"Before any rumors can begin," he announced, with a gleam in his eyes, "We have something special that we would like to share with all of you."
"The Duchess and I have planted a seed of our own. It has taken hold and is growing stout and strong."
There was a deafening silence in the council chambers at the Duke's announcement. The knights all glanced around at each other with questioning looks. Then back to the couple, who stood proudly before them.
The Duke addressed the men in the room, who were looking confused at each other.
"The Duchess is with child. She will be due at the same time as the harvest."
The mouths of all the men sitting in the room hung open in disbelief. Even Faye had not expected Sterling to announce the joyous news.
