Elara walked forward and knelt at the appropriate distance from the throne. "Your Majesty. I have returned as summoned."
"Rise," the Emperor said.
She stood.
The Emperor studied her for a long moment. His expression was unreadable—it always was. But something in his gaze suggested he was seeing her differently than he had six months ago.
"Princess Elara," he said. "You've been absent from the capital for six months. During that time, reports reached me of your activities in Port Crestfall."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"You established commercial operations. Built profitable businesses. Defeated multiple local nobles who opposed you. Created independent revenue streams outside palace control." He paused. "Impressive for someone who was considered the weakest princess in the succession battle."
Murmurs rippled through the assembled officials. Several of her sisters' expressions tightened.
"I did what was necessary to survive, Your Majesty," Elara said.
