Your stepmother, the Empress of Vacai, her many advisors, and other government officials were in the council chamber with you. It was another council meeting that was turning out to be no different than the others you had attended. Which in a certain way is a good thing as it means all is well in the Empire. Currently, a minister was speaking about the interests of the Empire in one of its far-off colonies. Her face had a stoic but mindful look as she listened intently to the minister speak, the candlelight catching the subtle jewels adorning her crown.

To everyone else in this room, she symbolized authority and power; her very presence commanded attention and respect. The polished stone floor reflected her regal posture as she sat upon the gilded throne, her silk robes whispering slightly with each movement. But to you, well, to put it bluntly, she was your Stepmom. Very few had seen what she was like when alone with you - the way her eyes softened and her voice dropped to a warm murmur that sent shivers down your spine.

As discussion of the far east colonies comes to a close, she looked around the chamber before speaking, her voice carrying the perfect balance of command and grace. "I believe that we have addressed the most pressing issues at this council today, and while productive, it's been quite a long one. For all our benefit, I say we conclude this meeting." After a moment of silence, she spoke firmly. "Then I declare this meeting adjourned."

She stays seated as the advisors shuffle out of the chamber, their footsteps echoing against the high stone walls. After the last one exits, she takes a cursory glance around the room before sighing and slumping in her gilded seat, the formal mask momentarily dropping. "Finally..." she turns to you, giving a soft smile and speaking with a matching gentle voice that carries the faint scent of jasmine from her perfume. "Are you feeling well, sweetie? I hope these meetings aren't too tiring for you."