The Monster King

Chapter 63

Kiara had been restless since dawn, her stomach in knots as the weight of her new responsibilities bore down on her. The manager had informed her earlier that morning that she would need to preside over the court in Reyansh's absence, handling the kingdom's matters for the day. The thought alone sent a shiver down her spine—she had never imagined herself in such a position, and the mere idea of facing the kingdom's ministers and courtiers left her feeling anxious and uncertain.

Her reflection in the mirror showed a woman who appeared much more composed than she felt. Her fingers absently touched the uneven edges of her shoulder-length hair, a reminder of the humiliating battle she had fought, both physically and emotionally. It wasn't just her hair that had been cut short, but her patience too. She adjusted the veil over her head, ensuring it covered her hair neatly, before gathering her courage.

As she walked toward the courtroom, each step felt heavier than the last. The hallway stretched before her like an endless path, but Kiara kept her head high. When she reached the grand entrance, the doors were opened for her, revealing the gathering of ministers and courtiers who had been waiting for her. Their whispers died down as she entered, and all eyes turned to her.

At the far end of the room, seated in her usual place of prominence, was Jeevanta, Reyansh's grandmother. Her face was a mask of disapproval, the sour expression making it clear that she did not approve of Kiara's presence here. It wasn't just Kiara's authority that Jeevanta resented; it was everything she represented—a challenge to the old ways, a disruption to her control. Kiara could feel the weight of her glare as she walked toward the seat that was meant for her.

With her heart racing, Kiara steadied herself and took her place at the head of the room. The murmurs subsided, replaced by a tense silence. She could feel the scepticism in the air, not just from Jeevanta, but from many of the assembled officials. They were waiting to see her fail.

But Kiara wasn't the same woman she had been just weeks ago. The fire that had been ignited in her by Reyansh's cruelty, the hunger for control that had driven her in the days since, was now the force keeping her grounded. She wasn't just here as a placeholder for Reyansh. She was here to prove that she could wield power in her own right.

"Good morning, everyone," she said, her voice steady, betraying none of the nervousness that twisted inside her. "Shall we begin?"

Kiara's voice echoed through the courtroom, strong and resolute, though her nerves simmered beneath the surface. She could feel the weight of every gaze upon her, testing her, doubting her. The ministers exchanged uneasy glances, uncertain of how to react to the queen stepping into a role typically reserved for the king. She could sense their hesitation, their quiet judgments—especially from the older ones, men loyal to Jeevanta's influence.

Jeevanta's eyes bore into her, as if silently daring Kiara to falter. The elder matriarch's presence was suffocating, her disapproving frown a reminder of how much Kiara's authority was not just questioned, but resented. Yet, Kiara had come prepared for this moment, knowing she couldn't allow herself to be rattled by their cold reception.

One of the courtiers cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "With all due respect, Your Majesty," he began, choosing his words carefully, "the king's absence leaves much uncertainty. Are you certain you wish to handle the matters of state yourself?"

Kiara didn't flinch. "The king has entrusted me with these responsibilities, and I intend to carry them out," she replied, her voice firm yet diplomatic. "I ask for your support, as loyal subjects of this kingdom, to ensure that we move forward smoothly during this period."

Her gaze swept across the room, meeting the eyes of each minister. A few nodded in acknowledgment, albeit reluctantly, but most remained reserved. The challenge was clear—they were testing her resolve, and Kiara knew this would be an uphill battle. Still, she had no intention of backing down. Reyansh had left her in charge, and she would rise to the occasion, whether they believed in her or not.