(Palace Press Hall — Midday)
The hall buzzed with the whispers of hundreds of reporters, ministers, and military officers. Cameras rotated, lights flashed, and holographic feeds streamed live across the Blackwood Union.
At the center of it all, Chris Blackwood and Queen Amara stood side by side behind the royal podium — statues of calm power. The air was thick with anticipation.
Chris adjusted the mic. His eyes scanned the room, sharp and commanding.
Chris (voice carrying):
"Today, the Crown speaks… united. Only the throne addresses the Union, and only we will speak to its people."
The room went quiet. Pens paused. Cameras froze.
Reporter 1 (from BBN, raising hand nervously):
"Your Majesty… what was the reason behind Queen Amara physically halting the B.A.M. convoy this morning?"
Amara (stepping forward, voice steady):
"The convoy represents discipline, yes, but it also represents the people's perception of power. Today, we reminded both the soldiers and the citizens that authority is tempered by presence, by courage, and by empathy. The King asked me to demonstrate that leadership isn't only enforced — it's felt."
Reporter 2 (from Capital News Network):
"Sir, some claim this act undermines the military hierarchy. Was it safe to have the Queen risk herself in front of armored vehicles?"
Chris's gaze swept the room like a blade.
Chris:
"Safety is measured in obedience, not in armor. The army knows the rules. The Queen simply reminded them why they exist — to protect the Empire, not to intimidate it. No rules were broken; clarity was restored."
Reporter 3 (from the Union Daily):
"Does this mean the throne will personally intervene in all military operations going forward?"
Amara shook her head slightly, a faint smile on her lips.
Amara:
"Intervention is not our goal. Leadership is. Presence is. Today was a demonstration — a lesson for those who may forget that the crown is not abstract. It is tangible. It is real. And it moves with us."
Reporter 4 (hesitant, almost whispering):
"Your Majesty, some citizens saw this as a display of fear and control. How do you respond?"
Chris leaned forward, hands gripping the podium. His voice was deep, measured, impossible to ignore.
Chris:
"Fear is a tool of those who lack vision. The Union witnessed courage this morning — not intimidation. The Queen walked into danger, not to threaten, but to protect. To show the people that we see them, we hear them, and we act. That is the difference between rule and tyranny."
Reporter 5 (pressing):
"Sir, will this change how the Empire enforces its laws, particularly regarding number hierarchy and obedience?"
Amara's eyes glimmered as she spoke, calm yet firm:
Amara:
"The law is not abandoned. It is refined. Hierarchy exists to maintain order, yes, but merit, presence, and conscience now guide its enforcement. Numbers alone will no longer define worth. Leadership must now be human first."
Reporter 6 (with a smirk):
"Your Majesty, and the kiss this morning — does the Empire now witness the crown as a personal partnership or as a symbol of power?"
Chris and Amara exchanged a brief, unreadable glance — a silent acknowledgement of trust and unity. Then Chris addressed the room.
Chris:
"Both. The Empire sees a union of hearts and authority. A throne united is a nation secured. The kiss is not just romance; it is the seal of our governance. It is a promise — to the Union, to our soldiers, and to every citizen. Obedience paired with justice. Power balanced with mercy. That is our message today."
A murmur ran through the hall. Reporters scribbled notes furiously. Cameras zoomed in on the couple, broadcasting the united throne to every corner of the empire.
Reporter 7 (final question, anxious):
"Your Majesties, what should the citizens take away from this display of unity?"
Amara smiled, looking directly into the cameras.
Amara:
"Take courage. Take hope. Know that the crown is not a distant symbol. It is here. It sees you. It moves with you. And when the Empire needs it, it acts — decisively, visibly, and fearlessly."
Chris stepped forward slightly, voice resonating like steel:
Chris:
"And remember this: loyalty is earned, not forced. Obedience is respected when it is guided by the heart, not fear. Today, the crown spoke as one. Tomorrow, the Empire will act as one."
The room erupted — not with shouting, but with reverent applause.
Cameras flashed. Microphones picked up the echo of history being made.
For once, the Blackwood Empire saw both rulers as one force — unstoppable, unflinching, and undeniable.