Phoebe's POV
I understood the delicate political balance in the palace between the king and the elders well enough. If I refused this meeting, they'd use it against me just like before.
They wouldn't accept my illness as an excuse anymore - too many days had passed, and they'd argue I'd had plenty of time to recover.
Elder Augustus especially. He was a viper, waiting for the perfect moment to strike when his prey showed weakness.
"I believe it would serve your best interests to meet with him," Marcela said clearly. She watched me, knowing how much I disliked the suggestion.
But as queen, I had to swallow my pride and face the harsh reality of my position.
"What would you like to do, My Queen?" Wallace's voice was gentle. He was the youngest alpha present, though still older than me.
Still, protocol demanded his respect since I wore the crown.
After weighing my options, I nodded and told them to gather all the elders in the war room. I'd face them there.
