Page 12 of The Royal Throne
This was working out better than she’d hoped. “Perfect. Will you help me organize it? Let’s hold it in two days in the throne room. Will that be enough time to inform everyone?”
“I would be honored. You write a decree, and I’ll make sure that it’s circulated properly.”
Sabine stood and went over to the desk off to the side. She pulled out a piece of paper and a quill and began writing the decree, hoping she worded it correctly. Being from Bakley aided her in situations like this—if she made a mistake, she claimed it was how things were done in her kingdom. When she finished, she handed it to Cassandra.
“It is my pleasure to take care of this for you, Queen Sabine.” She curtseyed.
Chapter Four
The following day, Sabine met privately with each of the dukes who were staying in the palace. She sat and listened to what each had to say, asking questions about their land, family, and if there were any issues she needed to be aware of. Most spoke carefully, supporting Rainer while expressing concern over going to war and not receiving the food shipments they were promised. Some even mentioned the high taxes they were forced to pay the crown—all for a good cause, of course. Regardless, Sabine had been able to read between the lines.
Exhausted, she put her nightdress on and curled up in her bed. Harta jumped up, snuggling near Sabine’s feet. Since it was still early, she’d decided to read through the late queen’s journal to see if there was any useful information in there. Right when she opened the cover, a knock resounded on her door.
“Your Majesty,” Markis called out.
“Enter,” she responded with a sigh.
He poked his head in. “Prince Axel is here to see you.”
She’d had a long day and didn’t want to deal with anyone. However, since Axel was her brother-in-law, she waved him in.
Axel sauntered inside, his hands in his pockets, his gaze roaming about the room.
Markis entered behind him, closing the door.
Axel peered over his shoulder. “You don’t need to be here,” he said to Markis. “The queen doesn’t need a babysitter.” He smirked.
“She doesn’t, but you do,” Markis said, not missing a beat. He stood next to the door, making it clear he’d remain there throughout this conversation.
“Suit yourself.” Axel went out onto the balcony, his back to Sabine.
She rolled her eyes at how annoying Axel could be. After sliding off the bed, she carefully placed the journal under her mattress before straightening and pulling on her robe, tying it around her waist.
She went over to the archway, leaning against it as she watched Axel. “Why are you here?”
He shrugged. “No one has seen you all day. I just wanted to make sure you’re still alive.” He turned to face her. The sun had only just set, the sky casting an eerie glow across the balcony.
Sabine glanced back and spotted Markis diligently standing at his post, Harta now sitting beside him, both of them watching Axel. She tried to hide her smile.
“I’m alive. No one managed to kill me today.” She folded her arms, waiting for him to get to the point of his visit.
He took a few steps closer to her. “Where were you today?” he asked, his voice low, barely above a whisper.
“I was utilizing my time wisely.” He didn’t need to know anything beyond that.
Axel chuckled. “Good. I’m glad.” He didn’t say anything else, as if waiting for her to elaborate.
“Is that all?” she asked.
“Yes, I just wanted to make sure you were alive.” He winked, then strode past her.
Markis opened the door, letting Axel out.
“That was—” Markis didn’t get to finish because Claire rushed into the room carrying a tray laden with food.
“Your Majesty,” Claire said, setting the tray on the small table. “One of your guards said you hadn’t eaten supper.”
There’d been no time since she had back-to-back meetings all day. Her heart swelled from this kindness. “Thank you.”
