The Weight of a Name

On the round table, wisps of steam curled up from the purple clay teapot. The rising steam veiled the complicated expression on Reginald's face.

He said, "The Ashbourne family is no longer what it used to be. Over these years, the imperial favor has steadily declined. If we don't pick the right side soon, Mother, do you think our family will still have a place in court?"

Reginald spoke bitterly, f