Kamon Law's report

Last night was one of the most memorable nights of my life, I nestled next to my newfound mother, who's practically obsessed with me. "Hey, Mom, is breakfast ready?" I ask, taking my place in the dining hall where Rose, Sendra, and Luna are already seated. Sophia, my lovely mother, is busy preparing breakfast, just like any caring mom would do.

"Of course, my dear son. Here's your breakfast. Take your time, I've made plenty," Sophia plants a kiss on my cheek and takes her seat next to me. Rose and Sendra are eating with calm composure, but on the other side, Luna's practically bouncing in her seat. I shift my gaze to her. "Onii-chan... Aaaaaa," she chirps, her mouth wide open in anticipation. I can't help but smile and feed her some of my breakfast.

"My dear, have you given any thought to what you're up to today? Thinking of heading out and exploring the city?" Rose asks, genuine concern lacing her words. It's clear that ever since the whole encounter with the dark order, her and Sophia's worry for my safety has only intensified. They're terrified that someone might swoop in and snatch me away from them.

I don't respond, just letting the silence hang in the air.

As I wait, I take a peek at the time remaining for my system upgrade.

System!

(Updating system, 78%/100%)

(Please don't turn off your system during installation)

(Once the update is complete, the system will restart automatically.)

The system is set to be fully updated by tonight. I can't help but feel a surge of excitement about what fresh features it's going to roll out once this update is all done.

Lifting my head, I meet Rose's gaze. "Rose, I've got plans to hang around the palace for today," I reveal. Her face instantly lights up with a smile, and I can tell that both Sendra and Sophia share her delight.

I caught General Tojoner's words from yesterday echoing in my mind. He whispered that during dinner, and I remember being curious about what he could've been discussing with Rose and Sophia in private. A thought crossed my mind—what on earth could've prompted him to be here at this hour, especially when outsiders and guests aren't usually allowed in the inner palace?

But when he realised I was seeking their conversation he looked at me with disdain and a restless look. I was cruise if Rose and Sophia hadn't been there, he would have attacked me.

"Yes there is a very important meeting held today, I need to present there. It is very important" Rose sighed and with Sophia, both of them hold royal bloodline, so it is significant for them to be present there. We finished our meals and left the room.

Rose and Sophia glance at me, clearly hoping to sway my choice. However, I remain silent until they head off for their conference meeting. "Let's wait until they're done with their meeting," I finally speak up.

Sendra gives a nod and wraps me in her arms. Luna, standing nearby, seems taken aback. Sendra gently cups my face with her trembling hand, her lips brushing my cheeks. "Xzson, it's just you and me now. Finally some alone time."

"I kind of saw this coming," I mumble to myself.

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Conference hall

Inside the colossal hall, an array of nobles and imperial dignitaries had assembled. They took their seats, facing one another, while an ornate throne stood prominently, crafted exclusively for Queen Rose Nili. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and soon enough, the grand gates parted, unveiling two figures escorted by an entourage of Royal guards. Instantly, the room was abuzz as all present rose to their feet and knelt.

"Long live the Empress!" echoed through the hall, voiced by twelve individuals in unison.

Rose made her regal entrance, striding towards the throne. The noblemen's gazes seemed magnetically drawn to her butt juggling her rear, their eyes lingering until she settled on the throne, crossing one leg over the other in a poised manner. Beside her sat Sophia, their expressions betraying an icy and pent-up frustration, directed towards the very nobles and officials who had convened this meeting.

"Let's get this meeting underway," Rose's voice reverberates through the room, prompting every noble and official to settle into their seats and commence the proceedings. A man stands up, breaking the silence. "Greetings, Empress. I'm Gamon Law, the head of the Dragon Kingdom's courts and Welfare Minister. Today, my son Kamon Law and I are here to present our fiscal year report." He gestures towards his son, Kamon Law, who is seated beside him.

With a nod from Rose, he proceeds. Sophia can't help but notice that Kamon Law's eyes have been locked on her since the start of the meeting. She merely glances at him once before deliberately averting her gaze. Once Gamon Law concludes his report, he cedes the floor to his son to continue.

"I hope you're doing well, Empress. I'm Kamon Law, Chief Officer of the Welfare Ministry. All the work falls under my supervision, and I'm here to elucidate the fiscal year for everyone. In this fiscal year, we've witnessed a 12% uptick in direct taxes from the commoners compared to previous years, along with a 9% rise in indirect taxes. Our focus on public welfare has led us to break the record in expenses, thanks to the expansion of public infrastructure, including roads, wells, and more. Moreover, we've managed to accumulate surplus reserves capable of clearing foreign and public debts for the next five years."

With his report wrapped up, Kamon sneaks a wink in Sophia's direction. Despite his gesture, she responds with an icy stare, not uttering a word. As the meeting concludes, Rose and Sophia are eager to exit, but their plans are thwarted as General Tojoner invites them to stay for lunch. The temptation is too strong, and they find themselves unable to refuse, ultimately deciding to join him for the meal.