Chapter 387: Wilhelmina’s Test (1)
Wilhelmina stood in the grand meeting room of Grafen’s castle, her hands resting on the edge of a massive wooden table that held several maps and stacks of documents. Across from her, Arielle stood with her arms crossed, her expression confident yet wary. Around them, the room was filled with domestic officials, Lyan, and a few others, all observing silently. The atmosphere was tense—a test was about to begin, one that would determine whether Arielle was worthy of the role Lyan had given her.
Lyan stood at the back of the room, his arms folded across his chest, an amused smile playing on his lips. His gaze flickered between Wilhelmina and Arielle, sensing the subtle electricity in the air. This would be an interesting battle of wits.
Wilhelmina took a breath, her eyes meeting Arielle’s directly. "Alright, Arielle. You’ve been given the title of stewardess, but titles alone mean nothing. Today, we’re going to see if you have the capability to back it up."
Arielle’s lips curved into a slight smirk. "I wouldn’t have it any other way. What do you need me to do?"
Wilhelmina gestured to the table, where several stacks of parchment were neatly arranged. "Here are reports from the three cities that we’ve recently acquired: Norhallow, Valmere, and Dunbridge. Each of these cities is facing distinct challenges. Your task is to come up with a viable solution to stabilize each city, efficiently and practically, within three days." She paused, her gaze sharp. "Your solutions need to address both immediate concerns and long-term prosperity. These people have been through enough—they need more than just a temporary fix."
Arielle raised an eyebrow, stepping closer to the table and glancing over the documents. "Three cities, three days. You do know I’m only one person, right?" she said, her tone teasing but with a hint of seriousness beneath it.
Wilhelmina didn’t flinch. "I’m aware. But you’ve been given authority, and with that comes the responsibility of finding the right people to assist you. You’re not expected to do everything alone, but you are expected to lead effectively."
Arielle nodded, a glint of determination in her eyes. "Alright, then. Let’s see what we’re dealing with." She picked up one of the documents, her eyes scanning the contents quickly. "Food shortages in Norhallow, merchant disputes in Valmere, and bandit issues in Dunbridge. Each with its own flavor of chaos." She looked up at Wilhelmina. "Do I have access to the resources from Grafen to assist with this?"
Wilhelmina nodded. "You have limited access. But keep in mind, our resources are not infinite. If you draw too much from Grafen, we weaken our own standing. You must balance the needs of these cities without compromising our own stability."
Arielle let out a low whistle. "No pressure, then," she muttered, though there was a hint of excitement in her voice. She thrived on challenges, and this was no exception. She glanced at Lyan, who was watching with a proud smile. "Got any advice, Baron Evocatore?"
Lyan shrugged, his smile widening. "Just do what you do best, Arielle. I’ve got faith in you."