"So what do we do now?" The voice echoes through their minds as they think of ways to move forward. Such thoughts are then interrupted by a loud slam. Rattling the figures on the table.

They all look up to see Ann standing annoyed, "Can't we just decline it and tell them to shove it?" Arin replies gravely. "That's impossible. This favour ties directly to the nation's foundation,"

He folds his hands together. "We can't just deny such a request, especially in front of parliament,"

Ariel nods, acknowledging, "The effects of such a decision could sprout unrest. Even now, our situation isn't as stable as it used to, as you can infer from the espionage and revolts."

Jane spoke, optimistic, "This could also be a great opportunity. After all, a great relation to one of Europa's powers, Isn't something we could waste."

Ariel grabs one of the soldier sculptures, playing with it. "And besides, I heard Germania has a few new inventions, which we could use for our own advantage."

Ann looked at the two women strangely and spoke condescendingly. "Really? Then which of the two of you would like to present their son to be married off to Germania."

The question freezes them both, and as a few moments pass, their face contorts in worry. "NO!" They both exclaim towards Arin. Shocking him from his thoughts, while she returns it with a smug smile.

They worriedly got closer, holding his arms, ingratiating themselves to him. He smiles sheepishly as they buried him in question.

Ariel asks from his left, "Have you already chosen someone for the marriage? I'm sure Arin wouldn't enjoy such a militaristic nation,"

She smiles sweetly at Jane, and she whispers slyly, " Though I couldn't say the same for Julius."

Jane replies at his right side. "Isn't it just as you said? New inventions are popping up all over Europa."

She counts with her fingers. "There's the new printing press, gunpowder, and even the new machines popping up,"

Jane smiles sweetly. "I'm sure you're son would enjoy such scientific discoveries." The two women looked at each other with irritation as they both think up a storm trying to find a reason to marry the other's son off.

He tries to soothe them both as they worriedly mumbled. "It's fine, don't worry, there's still no set date for the engagement. It hasn't even been officially announced,"

They both hesitantly let go as they silently went back to their seats. Arin looks at them in relief as he waves. "We aren't even sure as of the moment, as to what more could be asked of us,"

Arin looks at Ann with mischief. "For all we know, they could specifically ask a marriage with Charles." Ann pales, and the others giggle, alleviating the current tension. A few moments pass.

Aron nods to himself and claps. "Well, that's the end for today," He gestures at a side table filled to the brim with documents. "Seeing as I still have more work to be done, I would kindly ask you ladies to leave,"

Aron smiles at them brightly. "And please remember to tell me any updates," As the three women, stand up he teasingly winked at them, "Or if you want, you can just come for me."

The three women rolled their eyes and spoke exasperated, "We will try to, Your majesty."

He slouched depressed and spoke. "Well then, take care and be safe." They take their leave while saying their goodbyes. He waves with a small smile.

As the door closes, he smiles mischievously and speaks: "I love you." The glimpse of their blushing faces, a great boost for morale, as he proceeded to stand, gathering his documents.

I wait as the sounds of footsteps vanish. Even though our marriage hasn't exactly started on what I would call a loving one. I'm just glad the succession hasn't put a strain on our relationship.

Who knows how bad it could get, especially when it comes to the children. And a succession crisis is not something the kingdom can go through. Not at this time, at least. The kingdom couldn't afford a war once, especially a civil war.

I shake such dark thoughts away, and I can't put this work off. I proceeded to look through the documents I am tasked to check and approve.

I sigh, tired, and the first one is already a pain. The budget for this year seems to lean heavily on the military. Well, I guess the navy could use the funding, seeing as we seem to be getting dragged into a war.

As I check its other parts, I shake my head. The increase in budget for infrastructure that I was supporting seems to have been passed—a significant change for this traditionalist-dominated parliament.

After checking the rest of the document, I move on to another. The next would probably be tax reforms. The great effort that had to be made for the increase of tax for the nobility really took a lot of convincing.

Fortunately, my three wives were more than capable of convincing these obstinate bygones. The only concession was the availability of royal ports for trade, which I might consider a boon as well.

After stamping it for approval, I put it back into the pile. Well, that's done, unto the next one. This one now seems to refer to the increase of training for men of the navy.

Along with the officer promotion solely based on merit. A meritocratic law if I ever saw one, I tap my chin, thinking of what occurred on parliament to pass this law,

Oh yeah, I remember, I utter to myself. This one was the law proposed by my dear father-in-law. I mean, surely he saw its benefits from his outstanding achievements.

Though that does make me wonder, what could possibly be the reason for him to leverage his position on something that could cut down on his influence

The last of the laws passed by parliament, and perhaps most controversial, is the expansions of powers for the hall of commons.

I see then, and they'll be an excellent counterweight for the aged, stubborn traditionalist.

As I finish reading the law and stamping the document for its immediate authorization. I hear laughter as three hurried footsteps come past my room.

I smile, recognizing the voices. I hope this continues for the sake of the kingdom and that of my family.