Her husband is doomed for the Empire.
His wife doesn't dare love him.
Their union will decide the fate of all.
Elspeth had many reasons to wed the displaced Holy Emperor. Love is not one of them. She knows his destiny and dares not share it with him. The war they are waging against the necromancer and his false prince can be won only if he sacrifices himself to the invading realm. Otello will never sit on his throne, but if she wants to claim that right, she has to produce his heir - without falling for a doomed man.
Otello married Elspeth to save his empire. His being in love with her and trapped in a one-sided bond has nothing to do with the vows they exchanged. And that is why he must avoid the advances of a woman he knows does return his affections and focus on rescuing his empire from the sorcerer. Because an army of the undead is at its door, and if he doesn't halt it, he will be the last Emperor of Constantinium.
Their marriage was meant to save the Empire. Their love could destroy it.
Survive the Empire.
Save the Prince.
Steal the Throne.