Laina leaned back on her chair as she sipped a cup of hot tea. Placed on the table in front of her were the profiles of each of the artists that had been selected from the art competition.
Although Margaret had never once questioned any of Laina's actions, she could not help but wonder what was the purpose of the art competition. In a time when their nation was in debt, it definitely looked like a frivolous expense.
"Forgive me, your Highness, but may I ask a question?" Margaret plucked up the courage to ask.
"Speak your mind, Margaret," Laina replied without looking up.
"These competitions you've created, what are they all for?" Margaret asked, "I understand the combat tournaments. I assume those are to recruit more talents to the army and for your personal protection. But the art competitions? What about those?"
