Royalty used to be mascots, or marionettes controlled by the cabinet and legislators—invited to make public appearances on occasions, but otherwise having no say on national matters.

In fact, the cabinet and legislators tend to be wary of royalty, showing respect on the surface but absolutely loathing the idea of their meddling in national matters.

Even so, Helena's influence in Norway proved atypical—more than that, she had decent approval ratings in Europe and the rest of the world.

While