Chapter Three: "The People's Choice"
As the months rolled on, America found itself on the brink of the next presidential election. The candidates vying for the nation's highest office understood that this would be a unique election in many ways, with the Queen's Decentralization Act reshaping the role of federal power and the influence of each state. Every candidate seemed eager to make their stance clear, especially in regard to the young queen's reforms.
However, many candidates privately sought an edge in the race by seeking Queen Charlotte's favor. Some sent polite letters to the palace, hoping for her endorsement, while others went as far as reaching out to her advisors, making promises about how they would support her vision if they won the presidency.
Charlotte, of course, was quick to pick up on the increased attention. Though only five, she sensed that these gestures were attempts to gain an advantage in a competition she wanted to remain fair. Discussing the situation with Jenna one afternoon, she tilted her head, looking thoughtful.
"Jenna, they keep asking me to say who I like best, but that's not really my choice, is it?" she asked, looking for guidance.
Jenna shook her head, smiling gently. "No, Char. That choice belongs to the people. They're the ones who should decide who becomes the next president. It's important that you stay neutral and let the people make up their minds."
Charlotte considered this, then looked back at the letters piled on her desk. "Then I'll make sure nobody in the government messes with the election. Everyone should vote without being told what to do."
With a newfound determination, Charlotte summoned her advisors and other key officials to the throne room. The room filled with murmurs as ministers, state representatives, and government liaisons took their places, curious about the queen's unexpected announcement.
Once everyone was settled, Charlotte cleared her throat and spoke in a steady, serious tone, her small voice carrying an authority that surprised the room.
"I know there's an election coming up," she began, her gaze sweeping across the audience. "People keep asking me who I like best, but that's not how this works. The choice belongs to everyone—not to me, and not to you."
Pausing for emphasis, she continued, "So, I'm giving a royal order: Nobody in the government should interfere with the election. No pushing people to vote for someone, no tricks, and no trying to be sneaky. Let the people decide."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the room. Many officials looked relieved, as though they, too, had felt the pressure but now had the cover of royal authority to ensure a fair race.
One senior advisor stepped forward, bowing respectfully. "Your Majesty, we will uphold your command. Your wish to preserve the integrity of the election is both wise and just. The government will respect the people's choice, as it should."
Charlotte nodded approvingly. "Good. Tell everyone that's my order."
The news of the royal decree spread quickly. Headlines captured the story, praising Queen Charlotte's insistence on a fair election, with articles calling it "A Royal Stand for Democracy" and "The Queen's Guard on Election Integrity." Political commentators discussed how, despite her youth, the queen's commitment to an unbiased election showed maturity beyond her years.
Meanwhile, the candidates adjusted their strategies, realizing that they would need to win over the public without the endorsement or influence of the throne. Campaign rallies became lively gatherings, with candidates crisscrossing the country, meeting with voters directly and making promises for the nation's future. The people were now fully aware that the next president would be chosen by their voice alone, and turnout surged as excitement grew.
Charlotte continued to watch the process from afar, asking Jenna for updates on how each candidate's campaign was going, but refraining from voicing any preferences. She wanted to see who the people trusted and respected most. Jenna was proud of her young friend's resolve to stay out of the election, even though candidates kept trying to capture her attention.
On election night, the palace was quiet, with Charlotte, Jenna, and a few advisors gathered around a large TV. They watched the results come in state by state, each number and map update reflecting the collective voice of the American people.
As the final states were counted and the new president was announced, a cheer went up from the streets outside, where citizens had gathered to celebrate. Charlotte felt a sense of satisfaction—she had done what she believed was right. She had trusted the people to make their own choice, and now they would have a leader they had chosen without interference.
Jenna looked over at her young friend, pride evident in her eyes. "You did it, Char. You gave people the freedom to decide. That's the true power of a leader."
Charlotte smiled, feeling the weight of the election lift. "I think this is the way it's supposed to be," she said thoughtfully, her young mind grasping the importance of her decision. As the night wore on and the country celebrated its new leader, Queen Charlotte knew she had taken a step toward becoming the kind of ruler who would always prioritize her people's freedom and voice.
