"Your Majesty, you were incredible in there! The way you handled those nobles, it's like you were boosted today," Vyrelda said with a wide, genuine smile.
Elowen waved her hand dismissively, a soft blush coloring her cheeks.
"No, no, it was nothing special. Just another council meeting."
Unexpectedly, Serelith chimed in from her side, her eyes also gleaming, almost admiring.
"No, really, Your Majesty. You were so cool today, wonderful even," she said with such fervor that Elowen almost flinched. Serelith had a noticeable blush, and, to Elowen's surprise, a bit of saliva was gathering at the corner of her lips.
Elowen gave Serelith a concerned glance, her tone polite but tinged with hesitation.
"Um, Serelith, are you... fine?"
Serelith blinked, quickly wiping the corner of her mouth and looking embarrassed, though she gave Elowen a bashful smile. Before anything else could be said, Aelthris spoke up, a teasing tone dancing in his words.
"Perhaps it's because of a certain 'service' that the prince consort succeeded in giving last night, wouldn't you say?" He smirked, his eyes glinting with amusement.
Elowen flushed instantly, her face turning a deep shade of red. Vyrelda quickly reacted, her eyes widening as she shot Aelthris a stern glare.
"Aelthris! What kind of inappropriate remark is that about Her Majesty?" she almost shouted, her face flushing as well.
Serelith, not one to back down, stepped in front of Aelthris, her eyes narrowing.
"What are you saying, you bastard?" she hissed, her voice low and filled with disdain.
"Mocking Queen Elowen like that..."
But Aelthris didn't flinch. He looked back at her with an unfazed expression.
"There is nothing wrong with what I said. It's the prince consort's job, after all, isn't it?" His voice was calm, almost too rational.
"His role is to support Her Majesty, including in... that position. It's only natural he would 'boost' her in whatever way necessary."
Elowen found herself speechless. The conversation had taken an unexpected turn, and she didn't quite know how to respond. On one hand, she wanted to protest Aelthris' insinuation, but on the other, she could see that he was simply stating it in the most matter-of-fact way, as if it was part of her duties and Mikhailis'.
There was no malice in his tone, and oddly enough, she realized he was almost praising Mikhailis for fulfilling his role.
But still... to be discussed so openly...
She felt her face grow hotter. The thought of Mikhailis in that context made her heartbeat quicken, and suddenly, an image flashed through her mind—Mikhailis pampering her upon her return, waiting for her with open arms, ready to provide everything she needed. Isn't that exactly what he was doing? He was almost like... a house-husband, wasn't he?
And that made her feel something—a warmth spreading through her body, remembering how he supported her not just emotionally, but physically in bed, too. The way he always knew what she needed, the way he touched her, took care of her desires...
Before she knew it, she didn't say a single word of protest. Her lips remained sealed, and she merely continued walking forward, trying not to let her expression give away the thoughts running rampant in her mind.
They soon arrived at the queen's study, where a stack of reports, proposals, and documents awaited her attention. The pile was as imposing as ever, and Elowen sighed softly as she settled in her seat, her fingers brushing over the parchment.
"Alright, let's get to work," she muttered, though her heart was heavy with the thought of having to sift through pages and pages of tedious paperwork.
It was troublesome, to say the least. The proposals were often filled with convoluted formalities, unnecessary repetition, and vague language meant to obscure the real intentions behind the requests. It made the entire process of decision-making cumbersome and time-consuming.
But just as she was about to dive into the first document, Rodion's voice echoed softly in her earpiece.
<There is a more efficient method, Your Majesty. Simply scan the contents with your glasses, and I will summarize the key points for you. You may discuss them with me, if you wish, as if mumbling to yourself. It will expedite the process significantly.>
Elowen blinked, her eyes widening slightly. She adjusted her glasses and scanned the first page, watching as the words were quickly analyzed and summarized in the display projected in her vision. It was astonishingly fast—within seconds, Rodion provided her with a concise overview of the proposal.
It turned out that much of the proposal was filled with overly formal language that could have been summarized into a few clear sentences. Rodion's succinct summary made it easy for her to understand the core issue. She smiled, impressed by the efficiency.
Before Aelthris could even start discussing the first proposal, Elowen cleared her throat, speaking up.
"Regarding the matter of adjusting the tax rates for the agricultural sector in the northern province," she began, her voice steady.
"I believe the main concern is ensuring fair compensation for farmers due to recent poor harvests, correct?"
Aelthris looked at her, a bit surprised by how quickly she seemed to have grasped the key issue. He nodded.
"Exactly, Your Majesty."
Elowen continued, her eyes still focused on the documents, though her attention was split between them and Rodion's whispered guidance.
Aelthris nodded, his expression returning to its usual composed demeanor, though a hint of amusement still lingered in his eyes.
"Of course, Your Majesty."
Vyrelda shot Elowen a small, supportive smile before diving back into the documents she was reviewing. Serelith, on the other hand, seemed to be fighting back laughter, her lips pressed together tightly as she tried to focus on her own work.
Elowen did her best to ignore the heat still lingering in her cheeks as she turned her attention back to the remaining documents. Rodion's voice quietly echoed in her earpiece, the AI seemingly aware of her discomfort.
<Apologies, Your Majesty. I did not intend to cause any embarrassment. Perhaps my choice of words could have been more... considerate.>
Elowen let out a soft sigh, her lips curving into a small smile despite herself. She appreciated the sentiment, even if it came from an AI.
"It's fine, Rodion. Just... let's be more discreet next time, alright?"
<Understood. I shall endeavor to improve my discretion.>
She shook her head slightly, her smile lingering as she picked up the next document. As much as the day had taken an unexpected turn, she couldn't help but feel a warmth in her chest—knowing that she had Mikhailis by her side, and now, with Rodion's assistance, she truly felt capable of handling whatever challenges came her way.
The rest of the session went by smoothly, the discussions flowing easily with Rodion's guidance and her council members each handling their respective areas. Aelthris reviewed the financial decisions she had made, ensuring that everything was in line with the kingdom's policies. Vyrelda focused on the military reports, and Serelith provided input on magical activities and court magicians.
Even though the work was still demanding, it felt different—lighter, somehow. Rodion's assistance made the decision-making process efficient, allowing her to focus on the bigger picture rather than getting bogged down by the tedious details. And despite the earlier embarrassment, she felt more confident, more in control.
As the last document was signed and filed, Elowen leaned back in her chair, letting out a soft sigh of relief. Aelthris looked up, nodding approvingly.
"That concludes the reports for today, Your Majesty. I must say, your efficiency has been remarkable."
Vyrelda chimed in, her expression filled with admiration.
"Truly, Your Majesty. I've never seen the council's work move so smoothly."
Serelith nodded, her lips curving into a smile.
"You're amazing, Your Majesty. You handled everything flawlessly."
Elowen gave them a grateful smile, her heart swelling with pride at their words. She felt a sense of accomplishment—a feeling that she was truly growing into her role as queen. She had faced countless challenges, but with Mikhailis, Rodion, and her trusted council by her side, she knew she could face whatever lay ahead.
"Thank you, all of you," she said, her voice filled with sincerity.
"I couldn't have done it without your support."
Aelthris bowed slightly, his expression softening.
"It is our duty and our honor, Your Majesty."
Vyrelda nodded, her eyes filled with loyalty.
"Always, Your Majesty."
Serelith smiled, her gaze warm.
"We're here for you, no matter what."
Elowen took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her responsibilities settle on her shoulders, but this time, it felt different. It felt manageable, even empowering. She knew there would always be challenges—political disputes, conflicts, and threats—but she also knew that she was not alone.
She stood, her posture straightening as she looked at her council members.
"Very well. Let us adjourn for today. Thank you for your hard work."
The three of them bowed, each of them offering their own words of respect before leaving the room. As the door closed behind them, Elowen let out a soft sigh, her gaze drifting to the window. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow across the horizon.
She smiled, her thoughts drifting to Mikhailis. She could still picture him in her mind—sitting in his study, focused on his work, the light from his computer reflecting in his eyes. The memory made her chest tighten with warmth, and she couldn't help but whisper his name once more.
"Mikhailis..."
Rodion's voice broke the silence, his tone gentle.
<Would you like me to relay a message to the prince consort, Your Majesty?>
Elowen shook her head, her smile deepening.
"No, that won't be necessary, Rodion. I'll see him soon enough."
<Understood. I shall remain at your service, Your Majesty.>