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Maverick's POV

"Now that that has been taken care of, let’s all head for the conference room," I said conclusively.

All the others present were calmly and observantly taking in the scenario before them. I could tell from their eyes and disposition that they had many questions, but they knew that delaying any further would not be tolerated. Therefore, every single one of them turned around and went straight to the conference room.

I was the last one to enter, as well as the last to take a seat. Once I took my seat, I officially opened the meeting.

"Good morning, Elders," I greeted all of them.

"Good morning, Majesty," they all said, bowing slightly.

"The reason for this meeting is similar to the last, with only a few changes to be made."

Each and every Elder listened intently, their attention rapt.

"For the mission of going to Ryder's Pack and talking with his Elders, only one Elder will go on this mission," I said.

The Elders who had been chosen previously for the mission were surprised by this outcome. They had all been preparing for the mission, and now it seemed only one of them would get the chance. They were distressed but did not oppose the decision.

"Your Majesty, may I know which Elder will accompany me on the mission?" Master Hoffman asked, voicing the question on everyone’s mind.

"The one and only Elder who will go with you on this mission will be none other than Master Francis," I said in a loud tone.

Everyone turned to look in Master Francis's direction. He too was clearly taken aback that I had mentioned his name. But upon reflection, his particular set of skills made him perfect for the mission.

"Your Majesty, may we know why Master Francis was the one chosen?" Master Blake asked, his determination to go on the mission evident.

"Master Francis will go on this mission because of his ability to camouflage himself in the most obvious of areas. If many of our Elders were sent, it would look as though we're waging war on Ryder's Pack. While I wouldn't mind waging war at this point, I am not interested in losing any of my subjects. Therefore, I want this to be carried out in the most civilized manner," I said.

"But in the previous meeting, we discussed the scenario where Ryder's Elders chose violence over civilization. If that were to be the outcome, I don’t think Master Francis alone would be able to handle it. Also, when it comes to security, I think Master Gerald should be sent on this mission as well," Master Blake said.

"Unfortunately, Master Gerald will not be able to go on this mission because he will stay here in the kingdom and watch over Celine," I said decisively.

The Elders were clearly surprised by how drastically the arrangements had changed since the previous meeting. Perhaps because I was the only one dictating the details, there was no room for debate.

"Ryder is planning something big. Who knows if he's willing to raid this entire kingdom just to get his hands on Celine? If something like that were to happen while most of my Elders were away, this kingdom would crumble and fall. For that reason, I am not inclined to send too many of you on this mission," I said calmly and precisely.

"Your Majesty, are you certain that I alone will be capable of protecting Lady Celine?" Master Gerald asked.

"Trust me, I think you have all it takes to protect Celine and keep her away from danger. Jarvis had been doing the job before, and he did a fine job. He laid his life on the line for Celine, and for that reason, he is currently in a coma. Whether or not he will make it out is unknown to anyone. I’m sure we all wish for him to come out of this coma safe and sound. After he does, I do not plan on using him to shield Celine any longer. The mission is far too dangerous, and if you were to fall in combat," I said, looking at Master Gerald, "then you would be easily replaced." My tone was foreboding.

"I see. As you wish, Majesty," Master Gerald said, bowing his head in submission.

"Thank you for your cooperation, Master Gerald. As for you, Master Francis, should Master Hoffman come under any attack, you are to get him out of there immediately. When it comes to escape skills, no one here matches yours," I said to Master Francis.

"Rest assured, Your Highness, I will not allow any harm to come to Master Hoffman. I’ll bring him back sound and unharmed," Master Francis promised with loyalty in his voice.

"The mission of going to Ryder's Pack to speak with his Elders will take place tomorrow. All selected Elders will head there. As for you, Master Gerald, I strongly insist that you begin protecting Lady Celine today," I said.

"As you wish, Your Majesty," Master Gerald said simply and conclusively.

"You will have the aid of Armstrong in this matter. With the two of you looking after Celine, I am certain no harm will come to her," I said, closing the meeting.

"Your Majesty, if it’s not too forward of me, may I know what the rest of us Elders should be doing during this period? I don’t think any of us can sit idly by while others risk their lives," Master Frederick said with determination.

"Well, if you’re not comfortable enjoying the peace of your quarters, then you can help Master Blake rebuild his farm. The work there far surpasses the abilities of his subjects. The kingdom's food supply is running out, and it would be much better if the Elders combined their efforts to help Master Blake rebuild the farm and restore its productivity," I said, elaborating on the new task.

"As you wish, Your Majesty," all the Elders not selected for the mission said.

Although I had framed it as a mere offer, they all knew that not assisting Master Blake would earn the disfavor of the others.

"I’m afraid I won’t be able to personally assist with the farm's reconstruction. I’m a busy man, you see, and too much of my time would be wasted. However, I can send capable hands to support Master Blake," Lord Mark said calmly and decisively.

Everyone looked in his direction, understanding his point. Master Blake's farm would rely greatly on the construction division, and Lord Mark's contribution would be invaluable.

"Very well, Lord Mark. Since you won't be present, your expertise, funds, and staff will be required in your place. Your innovative ideas could have transcended the farm into something new, but in exchange, your resources will suffice," I said seriously.

"I hardly believe anything can replace my expertise, but if you want funds and staff, I will grant them," Lord Mark said calmly.

"Thank you for your cooperation. Master Blake, ensure you send everything needed for the farm's reconstruction to Lord Mark's division. He will handle 60% of it, while the others will provide minor support," I said, looking at Master Blake.

"Yes, Your Highness, as you wish," Master Blake said, bowing his head slightly.

The other Elders, grateful they had not opted out, now realized that in exchange for not being present, they would contribute significantly. The thought of avoiding the farm work was no longer an option for any of them.

"Now that all has been concluded, this meeting is hereby dismissed," I said authoritatively.

The Elders wasted no time dispersing. Master Gerald headed straight for the ward where Celine was, with Armstrong following closely. Master Hoffman and Master Francis walked together, preparing for their mission.

The other Elders went their separate ways, and with that, the meeting was concluded.