As a merchant would call it, "insurance"

"Before you go risking the fate of our nation on this throw of the dice, I would like to take a precaution." She still has little faith in you. "Mother, I assure you that I've taken every reasonable precaution. But there's only so much one can do." She shakes her head. "I don't mean the kind of precaution you're thinking of. I mean a dynastic precaution. Sophie, come here!" Mother's command voice is one few dare to ignore, least of all quiet little Sophie. "Since you've given so little time for me to cover for your mistakes, my only solutions are, of course, hasty and imperfect. Sophie and I have talked it over, and we have come to the conclusion that you should try to impregnate her before you go." Sophie is completely red-faced, eyes on the floor, but she nods in agreement nonetheless.

"Mother, I can't believe you! I'm about to embark on a holy war in God's name, to possibly find my future lawful wife, and you want me to start by making a bastard!" You're shocked that your mother would consider something so inappropriate. You never even thought of Sophie that way. You've known her only a short while, and she's so quiet it's easy to forget she's even there. Your mother scoffs. "Please, put aside your childish outrage my boy. You're responsible for this whole country now, and that includes ensuring that it is stable. If you die childless, it would be hell on earth here, if the religious reference satisfies your tender feelings. Sophie is a good girl from a good family. If you come back healthy with a wife by your side, I know she will keep it quiet, and you'll never have to think about her or the baby again. Isn't that right Sophie?" The bashful girl nods again. "If, however, your adventure ends with your **** as I expect, the kingdom shall have its heir, with my backing. Please son, for the sake of your people, follow my advice. There is still time before you depart, spend it wisely."

You look at Sophie with a more careful eye than before. You note that she is a girl about your own age. Her auburn hair is long and slightly wavy, running free down her back. You would describe her face a "mousy", and cute. Her chest protrudes noticeably, hinting at large breasts under her conservative nanny's dress, and everything else seems to be in proportion. Well, she certainly has a body for babies, not to mention a caring and nurturing personality. Still, it would be a tremendous breach of principles. But it is safer for the kingdom. Decisions, decisions.