Which of the following best describes the work of a viceroy?

The correct answer highlights the role of a viceroy as a direct representative of a king or sovereign. Viceroys hold authority over a specific territory on behalf of a ruling power. This means that they implement and enforce the policies of the monarch, making them an essential part of governance during colonial times. Their responsibilities often included administrative duties, judicial powers, and taxation, all aimed at maintaining control and order in the colony while the sovereign remains distant.

Viceroys were not operating in isolation or without oversight, as indicated by the roles and expectations set by the monarchy. Their appointment and the limits of their power were defined by the king or sovereign they represented. This illustrates the hierarchical structure of governance during colonial periods, where viceroys acted as intermediaries between the central authority and local governance.

This context clarifies why the other choices do not accurately describe the role of a viceroy. For instance, reporting only to local leaders or ruling without supervision misses the key aspect of representation tied to royal authority. Additionally, while overseeing military operations might be one of their duties, it does not encompass the broader scope of their governing responsibilities. Thus, defining a viceroy's role is best captured by their function as a representative of a monarch.