Maria was the most trusted person after her mother, as she was the Nanny who cared for her, and the King was not very keen on acknowledging his daughter. Without a son, he had his fingers pointed at him. Instead of being proud of the child, she was seen as a curse. Isabella was more appreciative of the Nanny, the maid, and the knights who felt pity for her than the only family she had alive. Even though the marriage with Nicholas was a success,. She was feeling the pressure as well. Isabella was proud of her choice. Nicholas was a great Emperor, and best yet, he was a soldier in the Rante army, making him strong enough to protect himself. He helped to make reforms and push down revolts as soon as he won the tournament. A silent man coming out victorious at the beginning surprised everyone.