Royal War: Sequel to Royal Secret

Chapter 20

I looked around the room at everyone's face with a mixture of feelings. Glad that most of us escaped the castle, but sad that we lost a few on the way and also the chance to bring an end to my uncle's rule.  Betrayal was also present by someone I thought of as my father, Thadius. But all those feelings were irrelevant right now as eyes held me in reverence waiting for me to speak. We were back at the Halder's pack house meeting with all the alphas and betas in residence.

"I know things look bleak right now. But we must prepare for what is coming at us next. The king will soon send his pack here to destroy us as soon as the queens leave. I have already made arrangements for a sanctuary for the families that live here. They will go with the Amazon pack who will be here in a couple of hours to collect them. All members of the families will go and that includes the husbands." Protests among those gathered rose to a fevered pitch.

"Celina, we will need every man to fight.  Just send the women and children." Alpha Curtis from the Dark Creek Pack shouted out. A chorus of I agrees sang after the alpha's suggestion. "Really are we going to follow this little girl into battle."

I didn't mind that someone challenge my plan.  But I will not tolerate any level of disrespect, with or without my wolf present. I caught the slight movement from Korin, who was ready to pounce on the alpha in my defence.  I slightly raised my hand at my side and stare in his eyes hopefully convening that I didn't need his help.  I walked around and stood in front of the alpha.

"And if we are wiped out here? Then what? Who will help protect the women and children?  Who will be around to help raise the children, our future? If we leave nothing behind, we should at least leave the family units in tact! You will listen to me, because this little girl, is your future queen and I will not tolerate any disrespect! You are to address me as Princess Richards from now on!" I felt a surge of power rush through me as we glared at each other. The alpha finally consented lowering his eyes and sitting back down.  I didn't move standing in front of him my eyes following his submissive motion.

"I apologize, Princess, for my last statement.  I have concerns about losing some of my best warriors."

"I understand, but they will be needed to help the Amazon to get the families to safety." I turned around my eyes sweeping the room for any more outbursts.  Eyes flew down as I made contact and I knew that I had their attention. "Alpha Halder, if you would please send out word to the families that they are to get ready.  Alphas please do the same with your pack. Now we must ready the place for a battle." 

A hour and a half later and several productive discussions of how we should prepare, I was left alone encircled by my high guard and Korin. "So how did it go?" Most of my high guard remained silent throughout the discussions, while Korin and Trevor contributed some good strategies that will be incorporated in the battle plan.  

"It went as well as expected." Trevor surmised.

"You tell me where to fight, and I'm good." Jules stated looking a little bored throughout the meeting.

"We need to keep a close eye on Alpha Curtis and a couple of others." Korin offered. Korin was propped on the wall with his arm across his chest.

"Why?"

He pushed off the wall walking towards us. "I was watching them, they are not totally sold on the plan or following your orders.  They may prove to be a liability."

Jace and Raven were nodding at each other, "He's right, we watched everyone as you were all strategizing." Jace agreed.

"What did you see?" It was helpful to have eyes on what was going on around me.  

"Whispering and looks of disapproval.  They don't full trust in the plan." Jace reported.

"We will keep close tabs on them, Celina.  Don't worry."  Trevor reassured me. "Let's go."  Trevor's command was directed at his fellow guards and they left, leaving me and Korin alone.