My fists clenched tightly at the news, my frustration boiling over into anger. To attack our people simply because we sought peace and cooperation was an act of cruelty I could not ignore.
"This cannot stand," I growled, turning back to Fiona. "Send word to all corners of our kingdom. Let every monster know that those who wish to join us will find shelter here in Havencrest. It's time for us to show them what we're truly capable of - not just as individuals, but as a united force working together toward a better future."
"Just hold on!" Fiona said, grabbing my arm and pulling me from my rage momentarily. "I understand your anger, my king, but we must think this through carefully. We don't want to inadvertently start a war that could endanger our kingdom by trying to do with the humans and monsters. I think that we need to get the women together and talk about how we move forward. I think it is also prudent to include Lachlan in this talk."
Anger coursed through me like fire, but Fiona was right. Though, I didn't like involving that prick of a self-righteous human! Fiona was probably right about that as well, but I did not have to like it!
I took a deep breath, steadying my emotions before nodding in agreement. "You're right, Fiona. We need to approach this situation rationally and not let our anger cloud our judgment. As much as I dislike the idea of involving Lachlan, his perspective as a human could be valuable. Gather everyone for an emergency meeting. We must discuss our next steps carefully."
Fiona bowed her head in acknowledgment. "I will notify everyone immediately, my King."
As preparations were made for the meeting, I couldn't help but feel the weight of my new responsibilities bear down on me. The kingdom we were building was more delicate than ever, teetering on the precipice between peace and war.
As my Queen, forged weapon, loyal maid, and the other girls gathered around the table alongside Lachlan, I knew that their support would be crucial in navigating these treacherous waters. Galor was lying at my feet as well, which was nice because buggers would only sleep in my bed when Kya did!
"We must figure out how to proceed," I started solemnly, addressing the group. "We cannot tolerate unprovoked attacks against our people, but neither can we risk inciting further violence by retaliating blindly. Does anyone have any suggestions?" I asked and then paused. "I mean, besides just wiping the village from existence because that thought has crossed my mind many times."
Melodious was the first to speak up, her voice gentle but firm. "We need to demonstrate that we're capable of diplomacy and not just brute force. Perhaps we could send another envoy, this time with a stronger escort as a show of strength, and request a meeting with their leaders to discuss how we can all benefit from working together."
Elara nodded in agreement. "I think Melodious is right. It's crucial we give them an opportunity to understand our intentions and see that cooperation and trade between humans and monsters can bring prosperity to both sides."
Lachlan grumbled, crossing his arms over his chest. "They've already shown their true colors by attacking your people without provocation. If you ask me, I say we teach them a lesson they won't forget. I personally would send a team to go and deal with them and make an example out of them. Been running for a long time."
I looked over at Lachlan with a bit of surprise. "You sound like more of a monster than me! I think I am starting to like you!" I laughed, but Lachlan just gave me the finger.
"Don't compare us. While it is noble that you want to give them a chance, you really don't have a choice, do you?" Lachlan asked, that ever-present sneer smile crawling across his face, making me forget everything I had just said about the prick. "If you attack them, then you are a monster. If you ask me to deal with them, people will lose faith in you. Do nothing, and it will only get worse and embolden more people. Fucked if you do, screwed if you don't."
"You really have a way of putting words that makes me want to end your life oh so slowly; you know this, right?" I growled, and Lachlan just shrugged.
"And I want to go home, but I am giving some stupid monster a chance to play king. Suck it up, monster. You have more pressing things to be worrying about than me. I suggest you go yourself. They are just humans, after all, and you have defeated far worse opponents," Lachlan said, a challenging glint in his eyes.
As much as I hated to admit it, he had a point. My presence might serve as both a show of strength and an opportunity for diplomacy. It was a risky move, but sometimes risks had to be taken for the greater good.
"Very well," I conceded, meeting each person's gaze around the table. "I will personally lead a group to this settlement to try and open discussions with their leaders. If we can reach an agreement that benefits everyone involved, then hopefully, we can prevent further bloodshed."
Nods and murmurs of agreement filled the room, and the tension eased slightly. "We'll prepare immediately, my King," Fiona said, her voice steady and supportive. "May I suggest taking a mix of human and monster guards with you? It could help demonstrate our unity and commitment to cooperation between our people."
I nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good idea. Let's gather a small but strong delegation from both sides and make sure they are well-prepared for any potential threats."
With the decision made, everyone present began to discuss logistics and preparations for the upcoming journey. Though the atmosphere remained tense, there was also a sense of determination and resolve among us.
Together, we would prove that Havencrest was a kingdom built on the principles of peace, cooperation, and understanding. And while the road ahead was undoubtedly fraught with challenges and setbacks, we would face them head-on - united by our shared vision of a brighter future for humans and monsters alike.
I mean, either that or someone was going to have to die. I was always a fan of just killing someone and being done with it, but I was going to have to try and play by our rules. The same rules that I didn't even completely agree with. I was far too complicated for my own good.