Chapter 77 - Royal (Part 5)
-The Tavern; Border Town of Calonia-
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"I'm telling you, she's a miracle worker," a traveler named Arin exclaimed to the bartender, Jax. "I was stuck at the border for days, but she sorted it out in hours."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLw4Cf5B5Pp
"That's what I've heard," Jax replied. "She's got a way of getting things done."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcgyUdunMGK
"But what about the executions?" a patron named Zane asked, his voice low. "Isn't that a bit... extreme?"23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKAATd2dMGC
"Extreme times call for extreme measures," Arin shrugged. "Besides, they were traitors. They got what was coming to them."
-The Palace Library; Kingdom of Nefaria-
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"I've been studying her family history," a librarian named Elwynn whispered to a visiting scholar, Thrain. "She's got quite the lineage."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vgngcxQP5
"Yes, I've heard," Thrain replied. "But what about her abilities? There are rumors of something... unusual."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡohtOXjUaz4
"Ah, yes," Elwynn nodded. "I've seen some ancient texts that suggest she might have inherited certain... gifts from her ancestors."
-The Marketplace; Port City of Marcella-
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"I heard she's planning to build new ships for the navy," a sailor named Caspian exclaimed to a vendor, Lyraea. "That means more jobs for us!"23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡegWgI6k16k
"And better protection for our trade routes," Lyraea added. "She's thinking ahead, that one."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHIWbb2zTS
"But what about the cost?" another shopper named Kaida asked. "We can't afford another war."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmuDm7zBKkR
"Don't worry," Caspian reassured her. "She's got a plan for that too. She's talking about alliances with neighboring kingdoms."
-The University; Scholar's District of Galvia-
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"Fascinating," Professor Vynessa mused to her colleagues. "This young queen's approach to governance is quite innovative."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtW08yfrTMZ
"Yes, and she's got the support of the people," Professor Theron agreed. "That's crucial for any ruler."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxJsJto9Ec
"But what about her long-term plans?" Professor Lysander asked. "We can't just focus on short-term gains."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡphuLzMyR4B
"That's what makes her so intriguing," Vynessa smiled. "She's thinking about the future, not just the present."
-The Noble's Ball; Palace of Selvendom-
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"I heard she's planning to host a grand ball soon," Lady Alethea whispered to her friends, Lady Brynhild and Lady Calantha. "Invitations are going out to all the major nobles."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1nlJyIbq1F
"And what about the commoners?" Lady Brynhild asked. "Will they be included?"23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdnCFaRxLn
"I doubt it," Lady Calantha replied. "But who knows? She's been full of surprises so far."
-The Servant's Quarters; Palace of Vynaria-
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"Did you hear about the new queen's latest decree?" a young servant named Niamh whispered to another, Saoirse. "She's increasing our rations and improving our living conditions."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡotlrYyWbQD
"That's wonderful!" Saoirse exclaimed. "She really cares about us, doesn't she?"23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UTks6rOR7
"Yes, and she's fair," Niamh nodded. "I heard she's reviewing all the palace staff to make sure everyone is treated equally."
-The Tavern; City of Thorold-
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"I'm telling you, she's a genius," a patron named Cormac exclaimed to the bartender, Ronan. "She solved the border crisis in no time."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6LTtbpjlh
"And she's got the military on her side," another patron named Eira added. "That's no small feat."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZpowDxodo
"But what about her enemies?" a third patron named Cian asked. "There are still those who oppose her."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdokO6lexYH
"Don't worry," Cormac replied. "She's got a plan for them too. She's not one to be underestimated."
-The Royal Court; Kingdom of Dovaria-
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"This Queen," King Kieran mused to his advisor, Lord Arcturus, "she's certainly making waves."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufh3t9a0uO
"Yes, Your Majesty," Lord Arcturus agreed. "Our spies report she's gaining significant support from her people."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5FF8l2pGqM
"And what about her foreign policy?" the king inquired.23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm6dNKblnbO
"She's reaching out to neighboring kingdoms," Lord Arcturus replied. "She's talking about forming alliances and improving trade relations."
-The Marketplace; City of Kiro-
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"I heard she's planning to build new roads and improve our infrastructure," a merchant named Zephyr exclaimed to his customer, Aria. "That means better trade routes for us!"23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ89Oqdqfjp
"And more jobs for the common folk," Aria added. "She's really thinking about everyone's needs."23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqSjxcxf16l
"But what about the nobles?" another shopper named Kaida asked. "Won't they resist these changes?"23Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxeSagTSFnh
"Not if she's got the people on her side," Zephyr replied. "And from what I've seen, she does."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; 12 PM-
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The ornate study of Queen Luxana buzzed with activity. Sunlight streamed through tall windows, illuminating the rich tapestries and gleaming bookshelves. At the center, Luxana sat behind a massive oak desk, her ruby eyes focused on the documents before her.
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"Your Majesty," a lady-in-waiting approached, bowing low. "The letters of alliance are prepared for your final approval."
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Luxana nodded, her gaze never leaving the parchment. "Very well, Elara. Ensure they're dispatched to our neighboring rulers post-haste."
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As Elara departed, Luxana lifted her gaze to survey the room, now quieter. A sudden burst of exhaustion overwhelmed her, and she let out a deep sigh, "HAHH!" With a tired gesture, she rested her head on the desk, her thoughts drifting to her sister and Lily.
Isabella and Lily had been invited to a multitude of parties scheduled throughout the week, which meant Luxana would have some time to herself. Although they hadn't been bothersome the previous night, she anticipated their lively presence today. Luxana's mind wandered, "I'll focus on my royal duties first, and then I can think about Cillian."
She sat there for a moment, collecting her thoughts before rising to tackle the day's tasks with renewed determination.
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Economic Council-
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As the commander retreated, Luxana turned to a group of well-dressed individuals. "Lord Treasurer, what of our trade reforms?"
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A portly man with a trimmed beard stepped forward. "Your Majesty, we've drafted new laws as per your instructions. However, some nobles are... hesitant."
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Luxana's eyes narrowed. "Then we shall demonstrate how these reforms benefit all. Prepare a detailed presentation showing the projected increase in overall wealth, including for the nobility. Emphasize that a prosperous kingdom means prosperous nobles."
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"At once, Your Majesty," the Treasurer bowed, a hint of admiration in his eyes.
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Staff Review-
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Luxana turned to her new head maid. "Lady Elenor, what progress on the palace staff review?"
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"It's underway, Your Majesty. We've identified areas where wages can be increased and working conditions improved."
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"Excellent. Ensure fair treatment across all positions. I want no whispers of discontent among our staff."
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"As you wish, Your Majesty."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Agricultural Crisis Management-
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A man in simple but clean attire approached next. "Your Majesty, about the famine in the northern provinces..."
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Luxana's expression softened slightly. "Yes, Minister Thorne. We must act swiftly. Redirect surplus from our southern granaries immediately. Additionally, I want new farming techniques implemented to increase future yields. Regular progress reports, if you please."
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"Of course, Your Majesty. The people will be most grateful."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Naval Expansion-
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A woman in a naval uniform stepped forward. "Your Majesty, regarding the expansion of our fleet..."
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"Ah, Admiral Saren. Begin the planning phase immediately. This will not only create jobs but also protect our trade routes. Coordinate with the treasury to ensure proper funding."
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"Aye, Your Majesty. It shall be done."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Religious Affairs-
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A man in clerical robes approached cautiously. "Your Majesty, the matter of religious tensions..."
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Luxana nodded gravely. "Indeed, High Cleric. Arrange a council with leaders of all major faiths. We'll address these tensions through open dialogue and mutual understanding."
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"A wise approach, Your Majesty. I'll begin arrangements at once."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Judicial Reforms-
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A stern-faced woman in judge's robes stepped forward. "Your Majesty, about the recent executions and our judicial system..."
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Luxana's expression hardened. "The executions were a necessary evil, Judge Vora. However, moving forward, we need a more robust system. Draft plans for a comprehensive review of our laws. Justice must be fair, swift, and unquestionable."
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"Understood, Your Majesty. It will be done."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Covert Operations-
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As the room cleared slightly, a shadowy figure approached Luxana's desk. She leaned in, whispering, "Investigate the rumors of corruption in the court. Be discreet, but thorough, Spymaster."
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The figure nodded almost imperceptibly before melting back into the shadows.
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Public Relations-
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Luxana addressed her chamberlain. "Lord Cassius, arrange a tour of the kingdom. I want to visit marketplaces, speak with commoners. The people should see their queen in person."
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"An excellent idea, Your Majesty. It will certainly boost morale."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Military Demonstration-
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Turning back to Commander Dylan, Luxana added, "Prepare a public demonstration of our military might, but couple it with displays of our humanitarian efforts. We'll show both strength and compassion."
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"A powerful message, Your Majesty. It shall be done."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Education Initiative-
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A scholarly-looking woman approached. "Your Majesty, about the education initiatives..."
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"Yes, Professor Lyra. Draft comprehensive plans to be implemented across the kingdom. Knowledge is the foundation of a prosperous nation. I want opportunities for learning available to all, regardless of status."
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"A noble goal, Your Majesty. I'll begin at once."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Infrastructure Planning-
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"Minister of Infrastructure," Luxana called out. A wiry man stepped forward. "Begin plans for kingdom-wide improvements - roads, bridges, aqueducts. This will create jobs and improve life for all our citizens."
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"An ambitious project, Your Majesty. It shall be done."
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Study; Common Council Establishment-
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Addressing the room at large, Luxana declared, "I want a council of commoners established to advise on the needs of the people. Their voices will be heard in this court."
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Murmurs of surprise rippled through the assembled advisors, but none dared object.
-Helia Palace; Luxana's Room; 12AM-
"Ughhhh, finally alone. I swear if one more advisor tells me about "proper queenly decorum" I might actually scream." Luxana groaned, her shoulders slumping as she shut the heavy oak door behind her. She leaned against it for a moment, eyes closed, feeling the weight of the day pressing down on her.
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With slow, deliberate movements, she began to remove her elaborate court attire. "These shoes are killing me. How am I supposed to rule a kingdom when I can barely feel my toes?" She winced as she peeled off the ornate slippers, her feet throbbing with relief.
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Luxana massaged her temples, a dull ache pulsing behind her eyes. "Twelve separate meetings today. TWELVE. And Lord Blackwood talking for three hours about grain tariffs... I nodded so much I think my neck is permanently damaged." She rolled her head, hearing the bones in her neck crack.
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She paced the room, her movements becoming more agitated. "Everyone's watching me. All the time. Waiting for me to mess up. 'The young queen,' they whisper. As if my age determines my capability. I'll show them." Her fists clenched at her sides, then relaxed as fatigue washed over her again.
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With a heavy sigh, she removed her crown, placing it gently on a velvet cushion. "Gods, this crown is heavy. Not just physically. Every decision...life or death. War or peace. Someone always upset no matter what I choose." She stared at the glittering symbol of her authority, her eyes unfocused.
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Luxana slumped onto a plush chaise, her posture uncharacteristically poor. "I miss being able to just... exist. No one scrutinizing my posture or analyzing my tone. No one measuring the length of my sleeves or timing my responses." She ran her hands through her hair, mussing the carefully arranged style.
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Her gaze drifted to a portrait of her mother on the wall. "My mother made this look so effortless. Was she this exhausted too? Did she also collapse into bed feeling like she'd been trampled by horses?" Luxana's voice was barely above a whisper, tinged with vulnerability.
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She stood, swaying slightly with fatigue, and moved towards her desk. "I should review those trade agreements... I should check on the situation at the northern border... I should probably eat something..." Her hand hovered over a stack of documents, then dropped to her side.
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"But I can't even keep my eyes open. Just five minutes of rest. That's all I need." Luxana stumbled towards her bed, her movements clumsy with exhaustion. She fell onto the mattress, not bothering to change into her nightclothes.
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Her eyes fluttered closed as she murmured, "Tomorrow will be better. I'll be better. I have to be. For them. For all of them." Her breathing began to slow, her body relaxing into the soft bedding.
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"They deserve a queen who..." Her voice trailed off as sleep began to overtake her. "They deserve..."
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Luxana's final words were lost as she drifted into a deep, exhausted slumber, the weight of her responsibilities momentarily lifted by the mercy of sleep.
Luxana's final words trailed off as exhaustion claimed her, her body sinking into the plush mattress. The ornate chamber fell silent, save for the soft rustling of silk curtains in the night breeze. Moonlight filtered through the windows, casting long shadows across the room and illuminating Luxana's face, her features finally relaxed in slumber.
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*Knock Knock*
The knock at the door broke the silence of Luxana's chamber, jolting her from her exhausted slumber. She groaned, her voice barely above a whisper as she called out, "Come... in..."
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A maid entered with a trolley, upon which sat a teapot and a delicate china cup. "Your Majesty. I brought your tea," she announced, her voice soft and respectful.
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Luxana's mind fogged with confusion. Tea? When did I order tea? she thought, still lying on her stomach, her body sinking into the plush mattress.
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The maid continued, her words a gentle stream in the quiet room. "This is the tea that relieves fatigue. It has a soft scent, and the tea leaves have been brewed with special care. They were imported from one of the best beverage-producing countries."
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Too tired to question further, Luxana slowly sat up, her movements labored. She took the cup from the maid and, in a surprising move, drank the tea in one swift gulp. The maid's eyes widened in shock; how could anyone consume such a hot liquid so quickly?
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Luxana handed the cup back, her face expressionless, and plopped back onto the bed, this time on her back. Her exhaustion seemed to swallow her whole once more.
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"Good Night, Your Majesty," the maid said, bowing deeply before gathering her trolley and leaving the room.
*2 minutes later*
To be Continued...
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