By mid-morning, the couple returned to the palace to begin their official duties. Today's council meeting proved surprisingly short.
The Noble elder presented reports regarding the distribution of food supplies throughout the kingdom.
Trade with the northern territories had improved considerably now that winter had ended, and merchants once again crossed the mountain passes in large numbers.
The councillor in charge of Construction reported that work on the widened southern trade road had begun ahead of schedule. Earth manipulators assigned to the project had already cleared nearly a quarter of the planned route.
Lilith listened carefully before approving the next phase of construction. Atheline quietly added a few suggestions regarding supply stations along the road to support both merchants and military patrols.
The councillors readily agreed.
Once the meeting ended, Simion caught up with Atheline outside the council chamber.
"Your Majesty."
Atheline smiled.
