A bombshell

"You have been very kind to me your majesty. I know that my appearance is not pleasing. I have had several suitors come to see me of both high and low station, all attracted by my father's power. The former are quick to make excuses and turn away, while the latter I can always tell are kept only by their ambition. You have been more fair and genuine than any of them, which is why I feel the need to reciprocate." Camilla chokes up at the end, and turns away from you. "Unlike other women, I do not...bleed, to put it one way, each month." You don't understand. Camilla's voice is just a whisper now. "I have only spoken of this to one other person, my family's doctor. He believes I... shall never bear children."

You are stunned by this revelation. Infertility is an absolute deal-breaker, no matter how much you pity the sweet, brainy girl. Your dynasty must live on, for its own good and that of the kingdom. It's the entire reason you came here after all. You cannot think of anything to say. Camilla turns back to you, face wet. "I will certainly be married off sooner or later to seal some form of alliance for my family, as is my filial duty. I've known this for a long time. However, tonight I felt for the first time that I may find happiness in marriage. I've never met a man before who intrigued me, or made me laugh as you do." She breaks, stifling a sob with her hand, loose strands of hair stuck to the paths left by her tears. "I'm sorry Camilla, so sorry but-" you blurt out before she interrupts, "I know that you need an heir. And I know very well that that is something I cannot provide. But, I have an idea that may solve both of our problems." Camilla looks past you into the darkness for a moment. She waves her hand beckoningly at a pillar shrouded in inky black.