By Her Majesty's Side

Chapter 1

 "Yes, but there is still tension on the border of Xepan!" One of my mothers advisors went on. His name was Dravis and he was the head of agriculture. He was arguing about what should be done about our larger food production colony. Since the farmland was rich in that area we always had to dispute with the neighboring kingdom for land. As summer was nearing its end the border dispute grew once again as it had in years past. Dravis was arguing for a show of force while Sapphira, our general, was arguing against it.

I... didn't care. I found the matter utterly draining, as Crown Princess I needed to pay attention and learn so I could take over as Empress on day when Mother eventually stood down but right now all I saw was a bitter old man arguing with a hardened military woman. While I may have had my bias I still believed Sapphira to be the correct one on this matter. However I had neither the position nor the commanding presence Mother possessed to interject on my own.

"Enough." The calm yet commanding voice of Empress Theia Colette, Mother, spoke. The argument broke down to bickering and she put a swift end to it. "Princess," she turned to me, "what are your thoughts?"

"I believe General Sapphira is most correct." I glanced to see the same stoic face Mother wore for all meetings and public appearances. What was she thinking? I could never tell when she was like this and I found it absolutely intriguing. "However," I continued, "it would likely be a good idea to send additional troops to the border to dissuade an act of aggression from Xepan."

"Hmm" Mother's expression didn't shift, "I'm inclined to agree. We don't need a fight with our neighbors." Yay! I'm learning to be a leader like Mother.

"Thank you for your input Princess." Sapphira said, sounding relieved.

"Thank you Princess." Dravis sounded displeased.

To everyone in this room, and nearly everyone outside of it Mother was a symbol of absolute power and authority. She commanded respect and attention with her very presence, but when in private she was a doting mother. Nothing but kindness and love surrounds her in those moments, and I find it fascinating to witness the difference between 'Mother' and 'Empress'.

Looking around the room Mother spoke "That covers the most pressing issues for today's council. It has been productive but ran quite long and for the benefit of all I say we conclude it here and carry out our day as we see fit. However if anyone wishes to bring another topic forward to discuss then please do so." The many advisors look to one another but none speak up, clearly tired from the meeting. "Very well, this meeting is adjourned"

Mother continues to sit as she was before until the room is cleared, as the door to the council chamber closes she glances around to make sure we are alone before breathing a heavy sigh and relaxing in her chair. "Finally..." Mother sighs and rubs her temples before turning to me with a soft smile and speaking in a gentle voice, a stark contrast to the one she spoke in moments ago, "How are you feeling sweetheart? I hope these meetings aren't too straining on you."

"I'd be lying if i said they weren't tiresome but I'm happy to be learning. I'd like to take a more hands on role if that is alright with you." Mother took on the role as Empress when she was 16, over a year younger than I am. I felt it was time I started doing more for the government if I am ever to live up to her.

"Of course dear!" Her face lit up at my words, making me blush. Seeing Mother happy was one of the best feelings in the world, and even more so when it was because of me. "This will be beneficial for both you and the Empire. Don't worry though, I won't overwhelm you. We'll start with smaller tasks and increase the workload when you are ready." She takes my hand and gives it a gentle squeeze and stands without letting go. "Shall we enjoy the rest of the day together? The gardens should be open today, would you like to take a walk through there and clear our heads?"