Parental advice.

Queen Amelia waited for Maria her maid to leave before she turned and address Helena the Queen Mother. "Mother," said Amelia nervously as she shifted slightly in her throne, "I have bare news regarding a potential union between our kingdom and another." Helena looked up from her own seat, her face serious as always when faced with matters of state. "Indeed? And what does this proposition involve? "Amelia hesitated for a moment, considering how best to explain it without revealing too much information about herself. Finally, she took a deep breath and began to speak cautiously. "Well, Mother... Queen Juliette has sent word proposing a marriage alliance between our kingdom and hers. Her intention is to for a unified nation ruled over by me and her son Omar." Helena listened intently, her eyebrows furrowed ever so slightly, conveying concern but not disdain. "It sounds like quite a complex matter," she mused thoughtfully. "How do you feel about it? "Queen Amelia sighed deeply as she contemplated all aspects of the situation. "To be honest, I am somewhat conflicted. On one hand, such an alliance could provide immense benefits for both our people – increased security, shared resources, access to new technologies..."Helena nodded understandingly at these points, knowing well how much her daughter valued practicality above anything else. Amelia continued, "However, marrying me off to someone whom I barely know might seem too risky.

I do find Omar charming and a little arrogant but what if in the future he begins to resent me" said Amelia. "That would pose significant challenges to our rule and potentially put the entire kingdom at risk", added Helena solemnly. "The stakes involved here demand careful consideration, your Majesty". Amelia bit her lip, processing her mother's words. They sat together, mulling over the issue silently. The candlelight cast flickering shadows on the walls, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing ambiance. In this quiet space, Helena leaned forward in her chair, hands folded neatly upon her lap, waiting patiently for Amelia to express her thoughts further. Sensing the urgency in the air, Queen Amelia spoke again, a mixture of anxiety and determination evident in her voice. "Yes, indeed! It seems the potential advantages far outweigh the perceived threats." The room fell silent once more as they mulled over this statement. Time seemed to stretch infinitely around them, punctuated only by the occasional crackling sound of burning wax. Gradually, Amelia's apprehension dissipated, replaced instead by confidence born from consulting with her trusted mother. Her mind made up, she announced decisively, "Then let us accept this offer from Queen Juliette. We must seize the opportunity provided, despite any doubts or unknown factors ahead." Helena regarded her daughter approvingly, impressed by her courageous resolve reminding her of her herself at that age.

"As long as you remain open-minded and alert during your negotiations with Queen Juliette, I believe the potential for good will greatly outweigh any obstacles that may arise. Besides, the prospect of uniting our kingdoms under joint leadership presents enormous opportunities for growth and progress," Helena offered encouragingly. This time, it was Amelia who smiled reassuringly at her mother. With renewed conviction, she agreed wholeheartedly, eager to embark on this exciting journey alongside her beloved mentor. Her decision made Queen Amelia had to just put it to her council of advisors. They were the wisest among her subjects and thus held considerable influence in court affairs. Despite being queen, she believed in inclusivity and sought counsel from those who knew better than she did about various situations. After gathering input from key members of her inner circle, Amelia made a final call. With the meeting adjourned, Amelia walked through the palace halls, feeling a mix of elation and trepidation. Soon enough, arrangements for her to meet with Queen Juliette were set in motion and a message was sent to Queen Juliette via her ambassador in Sarella Lord Damien. Queen Amelia hoped that Prince Omar would also come along. As the days went by, anticipation grew within the Kingdom as preparations intensified for the historic visit. Word spread rapidly across the land, and excitement filled hearts in every corner. People wondered what changes lay ahead, speculating excitedly about the implications of this monumental event.