Chant Of The Twilight

Chant XLIX

Chapter 49: Conflicted

Tila hinipan lamang ang panahon sa Ivelhan. After Achlise ascended to the throne, her duties began as well. Managing the palace affairs and other external duties under her jurisdiction.

Bukod sa mga dokumento na kailangan niyang pirmahan araw-araw ay abala rin ito sa marriage affairs ng mga distant relatives ni Rhysand. Even though they are not part of the immediate family anymore, the fact that their ancestors are from the Ivelhan family, their marriage affairs is still under the Empress' jurisdiction. Ganoon din ang mga binatang head ng Noble Houses na nagbibigay sa kanya ng letter of intent upang hanapan sila ng posibleng marriage partners.

Achlise is also responsible of attending an audience to some officials that are visiting her to pay their respects to the Empress. Achlise has also established her own vassals consists of 10 cabinet members. They are overseeing some of Achlise's duties that are too far of Achlise's reach.

"Greetings to the benevolent mother of Ivelhan, Her Majesty, Empress Natharia."

Just like her title, Achlise's official and formal title has changed to her first name as well as per the law.

"You have my gratitude, Count Rowen. Raise your head," Achlise responded while sitting on her throne chair.

Tumayo naman ang Count. Sinundan siya ni Achlise ng tingin. May ilang hakbang pang hagdanan ang namamagitan sa kanila dahil nasa elevated part ang throne chair ni Achlise. Kaya bahagya itong nakayuko sa Count.

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

"As per your letter of intent. I have already selected some ladies that I think would be fitting for the Count. If you don't mind, nagdagdag ako ng mga commoner. I can't just possibily be biased against them just because of their status, can I?"

Agad namang napangiti ang binatang Count, "I understand, Your Majesty. I trust Her Majesty's keen eye on marriage prospects. I don't mind marrying someone of a lower status as well, Your Majesty."

Tumango naman si Achlise at bahagyang ngumiti, "That's good to hear. Nevertheless, my choices should not hinder you from choosing someone that your heart desires. Marriage is a one time thing. It is sacred and a once in a lifetime experience. Even though the Divorce Law has already been approved by His Majesty, it is better to choose someone you know you're sure to be with for a lifetime. So take your time on choosing who to marry. Do not rush, Count," payo ni Achlise.

"I will definitely heed your advice, Your Majesty. You have my deepest gratitude," muling yuko ng Count.

"Do not mention it, Count. Best wishes on your upcoming engagement."

Nang makaalis ang Count ay napabuntong hininga na lamang si Achlise at minasahe ang noo. Agad namang lumapit sa kaniya Samara na siya ngayong Head Vassal niya o Chief of Staff. In other words, her right-hand man and assistant.

Noong una ay ayaw pa sanang tanggapin ni Achlise ang pag-aapply ni Samara sa posisyon dahil ayaw niya itong ituring na isa sa mga tauhan niya. But Samara insisted. Since Samara is also studying to become an official Imperial Researcher, Achlise decided that being her Head Vassal will help Samara to gain experience for her future profession.

"Your Majesty, are you okay? Kukuhaan kita ng tubig."

"No, it's fine. Huling bisita naman na si Count Rowen. Let's head back to the Silver Palace for dinner," ani Achlise bago tumayo mula sa kaniyang throne chair.