Live tensions

A heartbeat later, Naomi raised her eyebrows. “I do know some things about the impending war but my husband has been on the matter for a long time now.”

Divya let out a whoosh of air and picked an invisible speck of dust off her skirt. “We appreciate the efforts of the emperor but the issues we came here for are more within your duties, Empress.”

‘Why does everyone keep mentioning duty to me?’ Naomi groaned internally.

“I am afraid that I do not understand,” Naomi said. Her words caused the women to exchange incredulous looks that made her feel incredibly stupid.

Meriana sat forward. “Empress, everyone in the five kingdoms is your subject and you must make them feel at ease, especially in these troubled times. We are here on behalf of the women of our respective kingdoms to seek your guidance.”

“My guidance?” Naomi repeated.

“Yes, Empress,” Sera picked up. “The men are preparing for war so it is up to us women to provide some comfort to our citizens. There is only so much we can do in