You sit at the head of the long, imposing table, your most trusted advisors flanking you on either side. The young scholar, Aster, is discussing the state of the kingdom’s gardens, but his words are lost to you. Your mind drifts, captivated instead by the way sunlight plays on the stained glass windows.

Aster, noticing your faraway gaze, falters mid-sentence. He takes a bold step forward, his voice breaking the spell of the dancing light.

“My liege, if I may have your attention,” Aster’s voice, sharp with frustration, cuts through the murmurs. “This matter is vital to our kingdom’s prosperity. Your disinterest is disheartening.”

A stunned silence envelops the room. All eyes turn to you, waiting for the inevitable rebuke to the scholar’s audacity. Instead, you smile, meeting the sparkling blue eyes of Aster’s.