THE KING'S MAN

You're suggesting we allow women to pursue education beyond what is necessary for

y. I'm asking that we evolve it. There are young women in Zuriah who possess talents and intellect that could serve this kingdom in way

re that has kept Zuriah strong for centuries? Women raise our children, nurture our famili

ogress, Your Majesty. Rather, it is strengthened by empowering its people to reach their potential. These young women

assion, Nyra, but do not mistake your position for authority.

with care. "I support Zuriah's growth, Your Majesty.

ention. A royal guard appeared at the door, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty, Queen Nyra, there are

e to it yourself. I have no time

Majesty, I will hear them. The matters of the peop

ured for her to proceed. "As you

*

froze in astonishment. It wasn't every day that the Queen of Zuriah herself ap

than she was. Her emerald gown swept the floor as she approached, her expression se

, her usual confidence falterin

m here because the matters of Zuriah's people, no matter how

leared her throat, trying to regain composure. "Forgive us, Your Majesty. It's

haps it is time to change that custom. Now,

jesty, this woman has undermined my authority as head of the herbalists' guild. She took suppl

g forward. "It was an emergency," she said, her voice quivering. "People in

r voice rising. "The rules exist for a

nced them both. "Enough

nd the urgency of the situation. Your intentions were noble, but you must respect the protocols that keep the guild functioning smoothly.

d to Miala with genuine remorse. "I'm sorry.

glanced between Nyra and Linne. Finally, she gave a

n for both of you. Communication and understanding must guide your actions. Zu

was rare for a queen to intervene in such matters, but she was not content to sit idly in her chamber. If

eddeus was still seated, reviewing documents. He

between the two women has been resolved. I spoke to them calmly and discovered

d work, Nyra," he said with a tone devoid

here is more I can do. Today's experience showed me how much people need guidance. I've been thinking about ways to a

k, regarding her with a measured expression. "You're already

could handle small cases like today's disputes that don't require your

er a moment, he finally replied, "I will think about it, Nyra. But do

bowing her head respectfully, though a f

stood for a moment, feeling the weight of his indifference, but resolved not to give up on her id

Her face held its usual composed expression, but a subtle relief lingered in her eyes. The audience with the king had gone as expected - challeng

of her ornate gown was heavy and intricate, and as she stepped down, her foot caught in

s, the palace's chief security officer, standing before her. His dark eyes were sharp, and his stance ex

measured and steady. "Forgive me for

k you, Officer Darius. I seem to owe you my footing today." Her lips curve

ct the queen," he repli

graceful figure retreated down the corridor, Darius turned on his heel, heading toward the court house

d back at

ck him in a way he couldn't explain. And then it happened. He didn't mean to, but her thoughts

ust perceived. A queen bound by duty but craving something beyond the o

tepped through the grand doors of the court house.

et, i