Crowned In Enmity

Chapter 2

Three Years Later

"Queen Arlette," Astrid, my Queen's hand, enters my office with the practiced grace of a seasoned advisor, her tone deferential yet composed. "The Council of the Realm will be meeting tonight, at 1600 hours."

"Thank you, Astrid," I acknowledge, setting aside my pen and straightening up in my chair. "Anything noteworthy for tonight?"

Astrid clears her throat nervously, shifting on her feet slightly. I narrow my eyes at her, nothing of incredible note has happened at The Council of the Realm in the past year at least. King Kairos would occasionally stir something up just for the sake of it, but TheRealm has been peaceful otherwise. Joining forces to win a war has a way of bringing people together.

"King Montgomery's son has come of age," Astrid begins cautiously, her voice betraying a hint of unease. "Prince Montgomery will be joining the meeting. King Montgomery intends for him to start preparing for his future role as king."

Facing the man who had stripped away everything dear to me had become the most daunting task of my life, especially after the other leaders in the Realm deemed there to be no substantial proof to convict King Montgomery of his crime. And now I would endure not only his presence, but his offspring's as well, at every council meeting. Memories surge: the echoing laughter of my father, the brotherly banter—now forever silenced by the ruthless hands of King Montgomery. Anger brews beneath the surface, a volatile mix of grief and righteous indignation. My fists clench, feeling the ache in my chest where sorrow and fury merge into a palpable pain. With resolve, I square my shoulders, drawing strength from memories of my father and brother whose voices urge courage in adversity. Taking a deep breath, I steady myself, "Well, hopefully Prince Montgomery is more... diplomatic than his father."

"I've heard he excels in his studies," Astrid adds cautiously, her voice softening. "And he's quite impressive to look at."

Internally scoffing at the mention of Prince Montgomery's academic prowess, I retort tersely, skepticism lacing my tone. "He's a Montgomery," I remark dismissively. "Known for testosterone and tyrannical behavior, regardless of their looks."

Astrid gives me a nod of appreciation as she hands me the file she has prepared in anticipation for the Council meeting.

"Thank you, Astrid," I sincerely acknowledge, recognizing her diligence in preparing me for the meeting ahead.

She nods in return, a flicker of reassurance passing through her expression. "Is there anything else you need before the meeting, Your Majesty?"

I consider her question for a moment, then shake my head. "No, I believe this will suffice."

"Of course, Your Majesty," Astrid replies, her tone respectful as she turns to leave the room.

As she departs, I open the file and begin reviewing the agenda, my mind already grappling with the implications of Prince Montgomery's presence at the Council. Though I have managed to tolerate King Montgomery, the reminders of his deeds still weigh heavily on me. Briefly, I entertain the idea of sending Astrid in my place tonight. But I quickly dismiss the thought—I refuse to be intimidated by some fledgling tyrant-in-training and shirk my duties to my country.

The agenda is typical—trade agreements, border disputes, and the ongoing conflict with Keld—matters that require diplomatic finesse and strategic planning. I make notes, preparing myself to navigate the discussions with clarity and purpose. Being the youngest ruler, and only Queen, means I often have to fight twice as hard to get my opinions heard.

Astrid's words about Prince Montgomery's academic prowess and appearance echo in my mind, but I dismiss them with a bitter scoff. Intelligence and charm mean little when weighed against the backdrop of his family's treachery. I can only hope that he possesses some semblance of decency, despite his lineage.