Elowen looked up from her desk, adjusting the new glasses on her face, a small smile gracing her lips. Vyrelda's eyes lingered on the glasses, curiosity flashing in them.
"A glasses? Do you have a problem with your vision?" Vyrelda asked, her eyebrows raised slightly.
Elowen let out a soft chuckle, shaking her head. "No, not quite. I just thought I'd try them out—maybe they'll help me read these endless reports without straining my eyes." She gave a playful smile, leaning back in her chair. "The queen's eyes are rather important, don't you think?"
Aelthrin smirked, his gaze shifting to the stack of documents on her desk. "Indeed they are, your majesty. Your sight must remain sharp—perhaps sharper than any sword in the kingdom."
As the discussion continued, a familiar voice chimed into Elowen's earpiece, interrupting her thoughts.
<Analyzing subjects: Prime Minister Aelthrin appears attentive, maintaining formal behavior. Vyrelda seems intrigued, leaning slightly forward—a sign of curiosity. Lady Serelith has relaxed her posture, showing confidence and a hint of amusement.>
Elowen bit her lip, trying to suppress the smile that threatened to break through. Rodion's analytical commentary was often a welcome addition to her daily interactions, providing a unique insight that others could never know.
<Additionally, your majesty, you have a meeting regarding the negotiations between Lords Vendrel and Halran scheduled for 10:00 a.m. The agenda has been updated from your previous notes, as I detected some discrepancies during the analysis last night. Allow me to provide a detailed breakdown for optimal discussion points.>
Elowen's smile deepened. She adjusted her glasses, looking toward her council members. "Thank you, Aelthrin. I think I shall take my seat now and proceed to the matters at hand," she said, making her way to the desk at the head of the chamber.
Aelthrin followed her, clearing his throat softly. "Your majesty, today's court discussion may prove to be particularly challenging. We have a conflict between two prominent nobles—Lords Vendrel and Halran—each with a significant number of supporters. It could become... tricky."
Elowen nodded, her eyes softening as she listened to him. Aelthrin always sought to prepare her, ensuring she had all the necessary information before making any major decisions. But today, she had something a little extra up her sleeve.
<No need to explain further, your majesty. If you provide me with the report, I can perform a detailed analysis, run potential simulations, and provide recommended courses of action. Efficiency is key, and let's be honest—these humans take far too long to make their point.>
Elowen's lips twitched, a small, almost imperceptible smile forming. She turned her attention back to Aelthrin. "May I see the report again, Prime Minister? I'd like to give it another look."
"Lord Vendrel, Lord Halran," she began, her voice calm but carrying the weight of her authority. "I understand the concerns each of you has expressed. However, we must not forget that our ultimate responsibility is to our people. Any territorial disputes must be resolved in a manner that benefits not only the noble houses involved but also the common folk living on those lands."
The nobles in the room shifted, exchanging glances as Elowen continued, her voice unwavering. She elaborated on the existing agreements regarding their borders, pointing out the clauses that had been overlooked and suggesting joint management of the disputed area to prevent further tension.
Rodion fed her specific details—names, dates, clauses—and Elowen presented them flawlessly, her tone measured and impartial. She spoke with a clarity that left no room for argument, laying out the terms with an almost intimidating confidence.
As she spoke, she noticed the surprised expressions of the nobles. She could see their admiration growing, could feel the subtle shift in the room's atmosphere. For once, they were seeing her not just as a figurehead, but as a ruler capable of understanding the intricacies of their disputes—someone who could hold her own against even the most influential lords.
Lord Halran bowed his head slightly, a gesture of acknowledgment. "Your majesty, your insight is remarkable. I am willing to proceed with the solution you have proposed."
Lord Vendrel hesitated for a moment, his eyes narrowing as he considered her words. Elowen met his gaze, her expression steady, unyielding. Finally, he sighed, nodding reluctantly.
"Very well, your majesty. I will abide by your decision."
A ripple of murmurs spread through the chamber, the tension easing as the nobles accepted the resolution. Elowen allowed herself a small smile, a sense of pride swelling in her chest. Today, she felt more than just powerful—she felt wise, capable. The glasses had given her an edge, but the choices she made were still her own, and she was proving herself worthy of the crown she wore.
<Excellent outcome, your majesty. Accuracy in judgment: consistent with predicted response patterns. Mikhailis would be proud... though he would likely make an inappropriate comment about one of these lords' fashion choices.>
Elowen's lips twitched, her gaze softening slightly as she thought of Mikhailis. She could almost hear his voice, see the teasing glint in his eyes as he made some offhand remark to make her smile, to lighten the mood.
She straightened in her seat, her expression growing more serious as she looked over the gathered nobles. "Let this be a reminder to all of us—the strength of our kingdom lies not in division, but in unity. We must stand together, support one another, if we are to prosper."
The nobles bowed their heads in agreement, their expressions thoughtful. Elowen watched them, a sense of determination settling over her. There would always be challenges, always be those who sought to disrupt the balance of power. But as long as she had allies she could trust, as long as she had Mikhailis by her side—and now Rodion to help guide her—she knew she could face whatever lay ahead.
And for today, that was enough.