Lena listened intently, absorbing every word as Isolde continued to impart her wisdom. "The most successful leaders are those who understand that not every decision will be popular. But as long as it serves the greater good of the empire, it is necessary."
Lucian watched Lena's face closely. He could see the gears turning in her mind as she weighed Isolde's words. Out of the three, Lena was the one who had the clearest grasp of leadership. Yet, even she had much to learn about the realities of ruling. Balancing the needs of the empire with the competing interests of nobles, merchants, and commoners would test her in ways she hadn't yet imagined.
