Crowned In Enmity

Chapter 11

My duties have kept me so occupied in the weeks that followed that even if I wanted to dwell on the events with Kaladin at my ball, I scarcely have the time. Astrid is still away, and although it's only been six weeks since her departure, it feels as though a lifetime has passed since she left—so much has happened, yet so little has changed.

My mind drifts back to the feel of Kaladin's hands on my body, his lips grazing my neck, his hips pressing insistently against the inside of my thigh as I...

"Queen Arlette?" King Montgomery's voice cuts through my reverie, pulling me back to the present. "Care to offer some insight?"

Kaladin's smirk beside him only intensifies the flush of my cheeks, the bond between us betraying the lingering traces of my lustful thoughts.

"My apologies," I clear my throat, glancing down at my meeting notes. Astrid was always so adept at keeping me on track during these discussions.

"The islands," Emperor Exyx interjects, "Given that Keld is intensifying its pressure on all fronts, we're proposing to vote on evacuating them."

"Evacuate the islands? Who's idea was that?" I huff, the irritation clear in my voice.

"Mine," King Carran raises his hand, his tone unyielding.

"You have no islands to worry about," King Erast presses, his tone dismissive. "What we choose to do with our outlying citizens is none of your concern."

"The wellbeing of The Realm's citizens is everyone's concern," King Warthford counters, his voice steady. "When we agreed to open our borders for free travel, we took on the responsibility for each other's citizens."

King Carran's gaze sharpens, and he leans forward. "We can't simply ignore the threat to our allies. If Keld advances, the islands could become a critical battleground. It's our duty to ensure the safety of those in jeopardy."

"I understand your concern," I interject, trying to mediate, "but the logistics of evacuating the islands are far from straightforward. We need a comprehensive plan to manage resources and provide for the displaced."

Emperor Exyx nods in agreement. "We are aware of the complexities involved. That's why we need to act swiftly to establish a framework for evacuation and support."

King Beckton's expression hardens. "And how do you propose we address the potential fallout? The islands are not merely strategic assets; they are home to many."

King Tenby adds, "The realm's stability hinges on our collective action. If we are to evacuate, we must ensure that those displaced are cared for and that their transition is as smooth as possible. This is not just about immediate safety but also about maintaining the harmony and resilience of our entire realm."

A murmur of agreement ripples through the room, and I take a deep breath, trying to balance the urgency of the situation with the practicalities of implementation. "Let's proceed with a detailed proposal. We need to address evacuation procedures, resource allocation, and the integration of the displaced into our territories."
    "Lingwell will be fine with our citizens remaining where they are," King Lingwell says dismissively. "Our entire country is an island; we've always been self-sufficient and will continue to be. We are fully prepared to defend against any attack on our outliers."

"Perfect!" I respond, a hint of smugness in my tone. "Then perhaps you could share some of your insights with the rest of us. It would be invaluable to have your expertise on how to prepare for a potential defense if the need arises."

King Lingwell's eyes narrow slightly, a flicker of frustration passing over his features. It's clear he's tempted to argue, to withhold his defensive tactics and keep them to himself. Before he can voice his dissent, Crown Prince Alexander Lingwell steps in, his tone measured and authoritative.