Eleni of Ethiopia

Three Emperors of Ethiopia has followed her guidance, and although Eleni never herself had any children by Emperor Zara Yaqob, his son by another wife loved her, called her mother and gave her the title of Queen Mother. Extensive estates has made her comfortably rich, though she seldom spends much money. A righteous woman with a strong faith, Eleni is often bustling around in the kitchen preparing food for the royal family and seeks the comfort of books in her spare time. Her great understanding of the affairs of state and her knowledge of the law has often been praised, and it is thanks to those two qualities that flourished when she was an advisor to the crown. It was she who made sure we had allies when enemies threatened our land, by sending Mateus - Matthew the Armenian - as ambassador to friendlier nations. The palace coup which led to the deposition and execution of the former Emperor was led by Eleni, so it would be wise to consider her influence at court as a great power few of us possess.