The Magistrate’s Date

I waited patiently outside of Marthailain’s cubical as he finished up his appointment. When the young man he had been meeting with left, I slid inside and took a seat across the desk from the Dark Elf. He rummaged through his desk looking for what appeared to be a new teabag. With a cup set to brew, he finally looked up at me with a little bit of surprise. “Princess, I didn’t expect to see you here.”

I smiled and opened up my bag. “I noticed your team was a little overwhelmed with work. Where did all the cases come from?”

He leaned back into his chair and considered me for a moment. “I didn’t realize your royal schedule allowed for time to help with the mundane proceedings of the OAC anymore.”

Pulling out a large stack of folders from my bag, I sat them down on his desk then pulled out a couple thumb drives. “Luckily for you and the OAC, I found time to help out.”

“What’s all this?” he mumbled as he started flipping through the pile.

“Twenty-five cases that are now closed and ready to be filed. You’re welcome,” I said flatly.

Marthailain blinked at the pile in front of him, and then back up at me. “How did you manage twenty-five cases in a week?”

“In fairness, I had Tessa for help. Couple that with the worlds best research Pixie, you shouldn’t be all that surprised. Another week like the last and I should have all of your case load caught up for you.” I gave him a grin.

He started to smile back then stopped, and raising a brow at me. “What do you want?”

“I like how quickly you cut through all the bullshit. I want you to give me permission to deputize not only Tessa, but a full team. If I can manage a team of about six then not only can I keep you caught up, but I can also make sure there is coverage for times when I will be away,” I explained.

He pursed his lips together for a moment. “Are you expecting to need to return to Everbloom soon?”

“It’s not just Everbloom. There I’m working to put together a royal council like they have in Vesaria so we can standardize laws and make trade easier. My parents may very well bite my head off if I don’t start getting back to the nest more often to see them. I would also like to get home to see my Human family. Oh, and there is the little bit about how I will be working at the North Pole again this year.” I let out the breath I had been holding. “I need boots on the ground that I can count on.”

“Are you gunning for my job, Alizeyah?” he asked, half teasing.

“No, but you know I’m right. I can do a lot of things because of my Princess title, but I can’t authorize OAC payroll without your permission.”

“Thank the goddess then. There is an end to your power,” he said, finally smiling.

“Will you at least take it to the council?”

Marthailain sighed. “Are you saying Seoul is home for a while?”

“I am.”

“Then I will take it to the council and let you know sometime next week. I need a budget outline before I can present it though,” he said motioning to the door.

“Already thought of that,” I answered, pulling a blue folder from my bag. “Here’s a full outline.” I handed it to him then stood to leave.

As I passed through the doorway I heard him call to me. “It’s good to have you back.”