Shion sat alone in his office. The ruler let out a deep sigh.
He wanted to be with Haru and the children now, but he couldn't spend as much time with them as he wanted. He was glad the little ones were growing healthy, safe, and happy.
Above all, free from suffering. He wanted to share in that joy with them.
Unfortunately, with so many tasks waiting for him right after returning, he only saw Haru a few times a day. Haru, together with Maldie, took care of the children; sometimes, as queen, she received certain petitioners – usually townspeople asking for help resolving disputes. Officials and foreign envoys were left to Shion.
Meanwhile, Shion had a ton of unanswered correspondence and messages from neighboring countries now bordering the Hoshigane Kingdom after absorbing Tora.
Last night Shion had sent a few servants out to post a notice: the ruler was looking for a secretary.
